This authentic Italian Panettone is a beautifully soft and airy sweet bread traditionally enjoyed during the holidays. Made with buttery dough, citrus zest, raisins, and candied fruits, this homemade panettone has a delicate texture and incredible flavor that makes every slice irresistible. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a festive dessert.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 4 cups (500 g) bread flour
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ½ cup (120 ml) warm milk
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 egg yolks
• ⅔ cup (150 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange
• Zest of 1 lemon
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Filling

• ¾ cup (120 g) raisins
• ½ cup (80 g) candied orange peel or mixed candied fruit
• 2 tablespoons orange juice or rum (optional)

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Instructions

1. Soak the raisins in orange juice or rum for 20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
4. Add eggs, egg yolks, vanilla, orange zest, lemon zest, and the yeast mixture.
5. Knead until a dough forms, then gradually add the softened butter.
6. Continue kneading for 10–15 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
7. Fold in the raisins and candied fruit.
8. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 2 hours or until doubled in size.
9. Transfer the dough to a panettone mold or a tall, buttered cake pan.
10. Cover and let rise again for 1 hour.
11. Score a cross on top and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–50 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
12. Cool completely before slicing and serving.