Soft and sweet, this delightful Christmas bread is a gift that keeps on giving. With a little bit of creativity, you can transform the leftovers into delicious treats that will continue to delight your taste buds long after the holiday season has passed.
In Davide Longoni’s warm baking lab, located in Milan’s Calvairate district, a mesmerizing display unfolds. Two dough hooks move gracefully, resembling tweezers as they lift, drop, twist, and slap the dough. This rhythmic dance is just the beginning of the process that yields 9,000 panettoni between early November and December.
The initial stage involves skillfully combining flour, lievito madre (mother dough), water, sugar, and egg yolks in a mixer. The ingredients are carefully blended at varying speeds for an hour, creating a smooth and elastic dough. Once the mixing is complete, the dough undergoes a rest period of 12 hours or until it has doubled in size.
During this time, the magic happens. The dough ferments, developing complex flavors and a delicate aroma. It becomes a canvas for culinary artistry, ready to be shaped into an array of enticing treats. From traditional panettone variations to innovative creations, the possibilities are endless.
As the rested dough is brought back to life, skilled hands meticulously shape it into its iconic tall dome shape. Fruits, such as raisins and candied citrus peels, are added, infusing the bread with bursts of flavor and vibrant colors. Each panettone is then placed in its own paper mold, allowing it to rise once more before entering the oven.
Once baked to perfection, the panettoni emerge from the oven, exuding a heavenly fragrance that fills the air. Golden brown and adorned with a glistening glaze, these festive breads are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Slicing through their fluffy interior reveals an intricate network of air pockets, a testament to the dough’s impeccable texture and lightness.
The pleasure of indulging in a freshly baked panettone is unparalleled. Its soft and buttery consistency paired with the sweetness of the fruits creates a harmonious combination that delights the senses. But the joy doesn’t end there. The real magic lies in what happens next – transforming the leftovers into delectable treats that ensure the panettone’s legacy lives on.
From decadent French toast to luscious bread pudding, the versatility of leftover panettone is remarkable. Each crumb finds purpose, as it is transformed into delightful desserts that will make your taste buds sing with delight. Whether enjoyed warm with a dollop of whipped cream or savored alongside a cup of aromatic coffee, these creations elevate the humble panettone to new heights.
In the spirit of Christmas, this festive bread continues to bring joy long after the holiday season ends. Its ability to be repurposed into a multitude of mouthwatering treats ensures that no crumb goes to waste. So, as you savor each bite of this traditional Italian delicacy, remember that its allure extends far beyond a single slice.
