Il Panettone
“Try not to become of success. Rather become a man of value. ”
As the holiday season approaches, the goodies around us keep coming with colorful wrappings. One of these is Il Panettone. In Barcelona, there is a big Italian community, so seeing this sweet bread is a common thing aside from the local ones — Turrones. Today, we opened a classic Panettone. A few weeks ago, we had a chocolate and liquor one, although delicious, we prefer the classic one like what we have today. It’s great start of the day with the morning sun streaming through the window, we had this special goodie on the table. It’s a great combination with a cup of coffee. What a Sunday!
Il Panettone is a traditional Italian sweet bread that is commonly enjoyed during the Christmas season. It has a rich and buttery flavor, and its texture is light and fluffy. The bread is studded with candied fruits, such as orange and lemon peel, as well as raisins or currants. Panettone is often baked in a cylindrical shape and has a distinctive domed top.
The origins of Panettone can be traced back to Milan, Italy, where it has been a holiday staple for centuries. The exact history of Panettone is somewhat debated, but it is generally believed to have originated in the early 20th century. The name "Panettone" is derived from the Italian word "panetto," meaning small loaf, combined with "tone," a suffix meaning large.
Panettone is not just a treat in Italy; it has gained popularity worldwide, and many variations of the traditional recipe exist. Some versions may include additional ingredients like chocolate chips or different types of dried fruits.
It's worth noting that making Panettone is a time-consuming process that involves multiple rising stages, and it requires skill and patience to achieve the desired light and airy texture. Panettone is often given as a gift during the holiday season and is enjoyed with coffee or sweet wine.
In Italy, there are strict regulations regarding what can be labeled as "Panettone" to ensure the quality and authenticity of the product. True Italian Panettone is made following specific guidelines, and it's a symbol of holiday festivities in the country.