Panettone Is Much More Than Fruit Cake

I had heard of Panettone, knew it was some sort of bread, but really knew nothing beyond that.  Lately, I have seen it all over the place.

Panettone is basically an Italian Fruit Cake, but that is really doing it a disservice.  It is not as heavy as fruit cake and has a few candied citrus, but not the nut filled, “what on earth is that” candy of the fruit cake you know. 

For Italians, this is a popular staple around the holidays.  Everyone gets one and gives two or three.  The thing about Panettone it is not used as a door stop or re-gifted, it actually is eaten.  The basic way to eat it is on its own or most people put a little mascarpone cream on it.

If you feel real adventurous you can attempt to make your own.  This however takes a bit of baking expertise and time.  I have actually seen Panettone at a variety of supermarkets.

Here are links to a variety of ways to serve your Panettone during the holidays:

Eggnog Panettone Bread Pudding

Panettone Bread Pudding with Cinnamon Syrup

Panettone Trifle

Panettone Bread Pudding with Amaretto Sauce

Panettone French Toast

Panettone Stuffing

Croque Mademoiselle

Panettone Panzanella with Pancetta and Brussels Sprouts