How to Make Columbus Classic Panettone: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Welcome to the extraordinary and captivating journey of creating your Columbus Classic Panettone! This exquisite and festive treat is a must-have on the dessert table during the enchanting holiday season. Prepare yourself for an incredible adventure that will awaken your senses and leave you filled with wonder. With its delicate balance of flavors and irresistible aroma, the Columbus Classic Panettone is a true masterpiece that will elevate your culinary prowess. From the moment you take your first bite, you will be transported to a world of pure indulgence and culinary delight. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and let the magic unfold as we embark on this culinary escapade together. Prepare to leave a lasting impression on your loved ones as you craft unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s begin this epicurean odyssey and unlock the secrets of the Columbus Classic Panettone!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 3 teaspoons of active dry yeast
• 6 tablespoons of melted butter
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 4 egg yolks
• 1/4 cup warm water (110F)
• Zest from one orange, minced
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup currants
• ¾ raisins
• 1/3 cup diced candied orange peel

Step-by-Step Instructions

• In the bowl of a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and combine 2 cups of flour, 2/3 cup of sugar, and 3 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
• Combine 6 tablespoons of melted butter.
• Add ½ teaspoon of salt.
• Mix in 4 egg yolks.
• Pour in ¼ cup of warm water (110F)
• Add zest from one orange.
• Incorporate 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
• Knead the mixture on low speed for 5 minutes until the dough comes together and no longer sticks to the sides of the bowl.
• If necessary, add a bit more flour to reduce stickiness.
• Incorporate ¾ cup of currants and ¾ cup of raisins into the dough by kneading on low speed for another 5 minutes.
• Grease a 9-inch cake pan with butter or baking spray, lightly dust with flour, and set aside.
• Transfer the dough to the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly using your hands.
• Loosely cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1½ hours until it doubles in size.
• Preheat the oven to 350F degrees (176C)
• Sprinkle the top of the dough with diced candied orange peel and gently press it down.
• Bake the Panettone for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes clean.
• Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Columbus Classic Panettone! It will surely be a hit with all your guests this holiday season! Bon Appétit! 

Tips and Notes

• Cover the Panettone with aluminium foil to prevent excessive browning for the final 10 minutes of baking. This delightful treat will remain fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
• You can freeze the baked Panettone in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• If desired, decorate the Panettone’s top with slivered almonds before baking.
• For a richer flavour and more moist texture, replace 2 tablespoons of melted butter with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
• Add other dried fruit, such as cranberries, apricots, or cherries, to the dough.
• You can use citron if you cannot find candied orange peel.
• To make the Panettone gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose baking mix.

We hope that these tips and notes have been helpful! Now, you can share your homemade Columbus Classic Panettone with family and friends to bring some extra festive cheer. Enjoy! 

Get Creative

While the traditional Italian Panettone is made with candied orange peel, you can get creative and use other dried fruits or mix-ins that you might have in your pantry. Chocolate chips, dried cherries, and chopped nuts are all delicious additions. Experiment with your favourite ingredients to make a unique and special panettone. 

You can also get creative with the shape of your Columbus Classic Panettone. Instead of using a cake pan, you can use cupcake tins or mini bundt pans for smaller individual portions. You can braid the dough or shape it into a wreath for more festive effects. 

Happy baking!

Endless possibilities await you when creating your Columbus Classic Panettone for the holidays. You can get creative and decorate your Panettone with icing and sprinkles, creating an eye-catching centrepiece for your dessert table. 

You can also use the Panettone as a base for some delicious desserts. Try using cubes of stale Panettone to make bread pudding or trifle, or incorporate pieces of it into your favourite ice cream sundaes. Add some fresh fruits and a drizzle of chocolate syrup for extra special effects! 

No matter how you indulge in this delicious treat, your homemade Columbus Classic Panettone will bring joy and festive cheer for everyone to enjoy. 

Conclusion

In wrapping up, mastering the Columbus Classic Panettone recipe is not just about baking a dessert; it’s about embracing the spirit of the holiday season, filling your home with the sweet aroma of tradition, and creating unforgettable memories. This timeless Italian sweet bread is a testament to the joy and warmth of the holiday season. Immerse yourself in the delightful process, experiment with different combinations, and, most importantly, share this festive masterpiece with your loved ones. Baking your homemade Columbus Classic Panettone is a cherished holiday tradition that will be passed down through the generations. Happy baking and Buon Natale!

Frequently Asked Questions

8.1 What Makes Panettone a Traditional Holiday Treat?

Panettone is a traditional holiday treat because of its origin and festive features. It hails from Italy and is typically enjoyed during the Christmas and New Year. The Columbus Classic Panettone’s rich buttery texture and fruit abundance embody the indulgence and celebration of the holiday season. Its tall, domed shape is reminiscent of a Christmas tree, adding to its festive appeal.

8.2 Can I Make a Panettone without a Stand Mixer?

Absolutely! While a stand mixer can make the process quicker and easier, you can make Panettone without one. You must combine the ingredients in a large bowl and use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix and knead the dough. It might require more effort and time, but the result will be just as delicious.

8.3 How Do I Store Panettone to Maintain Freshness?

To maintain the freshness of your Columbus Classic Panettone, store it at room temperature in an airtight container. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can freeze your baked Panettone in an airtight container for up to 3 months and thaw it at room temperature when ready to serve it.

8.4 What Variations Can I Try in the Recipe?

The Columbus Classic Panettone recipe is versatile and lends itself to numerous variations. You can replace currants and raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or cherries. For a twist, consider adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. If you’d like a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose baking mix.

8.5 Can I Make Mini Panettone for Gifting?

Definitely! Mini Panettones make excellent gifts. Instead of using a cake pan, you can use muffin tins or mini Bundt pans for smaller, individual portions. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as smaller panettones will bake faster. You can beautifully wrap each mini Panettone in cellophane and tie it with a festive ribbon for a charming holiday gift.