How do Italians Eat Panettone?
Panettone, an iconic Italian Christmas delicacy, graces festive tables across Italy and beyond. Renowned for its light, airy texture and rich flavours, this sweet bread has become a symbol of celebration during the holiday season, but it can be enjoyed all year long.
Our guide will take you through the history of panettone, and how Italians traditionally eat this dessert.
Discover more about panettone and why it is an Italian delicacy
Find out how Italians like to enjoy panettone
Discover more ways to enjoy this renowned dessert
Read more about serving panettone just like the Italians
Discover why you should take our panettone home today
We answer some common queries
What is panettone and why is it special?
Originating from Milan, panettone is a tall, dome-shaped sweet bread traditionally enjoyed during Christmas and New Year festivities. Its history dates back to the 15th century and has roots in Milanese culture and dialect. “Pan de ton” indicates a luxury cake augmented with ingredients such as sultanas, where panettone gets its name. Read our guide to Milano style coffee here.
Key characteristics of panettone include:
- Soft, airy dough: Achieved through a process of natural fermentation, resulting in a fluffy and tender crumb.
- Dried Fruits: Typically, these ingredients are raisins and candied citrus peels, imparting a delightful sweetness and aroma.
- Distinctive Dome Shape: Baked in a cylindrical mold, giving it a towering, festive appearance.
Panettone holds a special place in Italian culture as a symbol of celebration, family, and tradition during the festive season. Sharing a slice of panettone signifies goodwill and joy, making it a must-have on Italian holiday tables.
How do Italians traditionally eat panettone?
In Italy, panettone is savoured in various ways throughout the festive period, but can be savoured throughout the year:
- At breakfast: Italians often enjoy a slice of panettone with a cup of espresso or cappuccino, providing a light and sweet start to the day. The combination of the cake's sweetness with the bitterness of morning coffee creates a harmonious balance.
- As a Dessert: After a festive meal, panettone serves as a dessert. It's commonly accompanied by:
- Mascarpone cream: A rich mixture of mascarpone cheese, eggs, and sugar, sometimes laced with a splash of liqueur.
- Zabaglione: A warm, frothy custard made with egg yolks, sugar, and sweet wine.
- With sweet wines: Pairing panettone with Italian wines enhances its flavours. Popular choices include:
- Moscato d’Asti: A light, sparkling wine from the Piedmont region, known for its fruity and floral notes. A glass of Moscato could do the trick.
- Vin Santo: A Tuscan dessert wine with a rich, nutty profile, providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness of panettone.
Sharing panettone with family and friends is a cherished cultural practice in Italy, embodying the spirit of togetherness and festivity. It's also customary to gift panettone as a sign of goodwill and celebration during the holidays.
To pair your panettone with a delightful drink in the morning or evening, shop our coffee and sweet wine selections here.
What are some creative ways to enjoy panettone?
Beyond traditional servings, there are numerous inventive ways to relish panettone:
- Toasted with spreads: Lightly toasting a slice enhances its texture and warmth. Spreading it with gourmet preserves, chocolate hazelnut spread, or even butter elevates the experience.
- French toast (Panettone alla Francese): Utilising panettone to make French toast adds a festive twist to a classic breakfast dish. The bread's inherent sweetness and texture make for an indulgent treat.
- Bread pudding: Incorporating panettone into a bread pudding recipe infuses the dessert with its fruity flavours and soft texture, creating a comforting dish perfect for winter evenings.
- Accompanied by fresh fruits and nuts: Serving panettone with a medley of fresh berries, figs, or a selection of nuts adds a refreshing and crunchy contrast, enhancing its flavour profile.
- Paired with gelato or whipped cream: Gelato or freshly whipped cream complements the lightness of panettone, making for a tasty dessert.
Are you looking to enjoy Italian coffee from your own home? Read our guide to drinking coffee like an Italian here.
Tips for serving panettone the Italian way
To fully appreciate panettone in the traditional Italian manner, consider the following tips:
- Warming: Slightly warm the slices before serving. This can be achieved by placing them in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes, which helps to release the aromatic flavours and soften the texture.
- Slicing: Use a serrated knife to cut panettone. This ensures clean, even slices without compressing the delicate dough.
- Storage: Keep panettone in its original packaging and store it in a cool, dry place. This preserves its freshness and prevents it from drying out. Once opened, reseal it tightly or place it in an airtight container.
- Presentation: Consider dusting the top with powdered sugar or garnishing with fresh fruits and sprigs of holly. Serving it on a decorative platter adds to the celebratory ambiance.
Why choose Carluccio’s panettone?
Carluccio’s offers an authentic panettone experience, crafted in Italy using traditional recipes that honour the heritage of this beloved dessert. Our panettone selection includes:
- Traditional panettone: Featuring the classic combination of raisins and candied citrus peels, embodying the quintessential flavours of an Italian Christmas.
- Chocolate chip panettone: A modern twist on the classic, studded with rich chocolate chips for a decadent indulgence.
- Limoncello panettone: Infused with the vibrant zest of Italian lemons and a hint of Limoncello liqueur, offering a refreshing citrusy note.
Each panettone is made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring a moist, flavourful, and airy texture. We also offer miniature options and gluten free panettone to cater for different people. Our commitment to authenticity makes our panettone a delightful addition to any festive celebration.
Browse our full collection of panettone here
Frequently asked questions
What is panettone traditionally served with in Italy?
Panettone is often enjoyed with coffee or sweet wines. It's also paired with mascarpone cream or zabaglione as a dessert.
Can panettone be eaten for breakfast?
Yes, Italians commonly have panettone for breakfast, accompanied by a cup of espresso or cappuccino.
How do Italians celebrate with panettone?
Sharing panettone with family and friends during the holidays is a cherished tradition, symbolising unity and festivity.
What can I pair with panettone for dessert?
Pair panettone with sweet wines like Moscato d’Asti or Vin Santo, or serve it with mascarpone cream, zabaglione, or gelato.
Can panettone be frozen?
Yes, panettone can be frozen to extend its shelf life. Ensure it is wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
What are some creative recipes using panettone?
Panettone can be used to make French toast, bread pudding, or even as a base for trifles.
How long does panettone last?
Unopened, panettone can last several months if stored properly. Once opened, it's best consumed within a week for optimal freshness.
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