Panettone is undoubtedly the most iconic Italian Christmas sweet bread. Originating in Milan, this dome-shaped bread is beloved across the country and has gained international recognition. Its airy, slightly sweet dough is enriched with butter, eggs, and sugar and dotted with raisins and candied citrus peel.
The Legend Behind Panettone:
The origins of panettone are shrouded in myth. One popular story attributes its creation to a young nobleman, Toni, who disguised himself as a baker to woo a local girl. To impress her father, he invented this luxurious bread, later dubbed “Pan di Toni” (Toni’s bread).
Artisanal and commercial bakeries now produce variations featuring chocolate chips, exotic fruits, and even savory ingredients. Despite these modern twists, the classic panettone remains a Christmas staple, often served with mascarpone or zabaglione cream.
