Panettone & Italian Cakes

One popular legend dates back to the 15th century and involves a young Milanese nobleman named Ughetto Atellani who fell in love with the daughter of a baker named Toni. To win her heart, Ughetto disguised himself as a baker's apprentice and created a rich and delicious bread using ingredients like butter, eggs, candied fruit, and raisins. This special bread, known as "Pan de Toni" (Toni's bread), became a hit during the Christmas season and eventually evolved into the panettone we know today.

While the legends add charm to the history, the truth is that panettone's exact origins are complex and probably involve a mixture of stories and culinary traditions. Over time, the bread became associated with Christmas celebrations in Italy and beyond, and its popularity spread throughout the world.

Panettone and Pandoro are all Italian cakes traditionally eaten at Christmas but the first difference you’ll notice is the shape. Instead of the domed Panettone, Pandoro is in the shape of an eight-pointed star and dusted with icing sugar. And then, as you cut into the Pandoro, you’ll see that, unlike Panettone, there is no candied fruit or raisins either – just a light airy buttery cake. So if dried fruit isn’t for you, try a Classic Pandoro by Nannini and a luxurious Tiramisu Pandoro by Follador.

Sacla’ has one of the widest selections of traditional artisan Panettone ranging in price from £20-£50 from award-winning artisan producers including Vergani, Lazzaroni, Sal de Riso, De Vivo and Cipriani, with free UK delivery and a gift message – send the perfect Christmas gift from Sacla.co.uk

Because of the unique way Panettone is made – especially the artisan ones based around a sourdough 'mother' – it stays soft and airy longer than many breads and cakes. Classic fruited Panettone typically has a shelf life of around 4-6 months, while more modern versions (chocolate, pistachio, etc) tend to keep for 2-3 months.

The cost of Panettone is a reflection of the quality of the ingredients, the labour-intensive process and the craftmanship that goes into creating this most loved treat. Panettone is made using high-quality ingredients, including butter, eggs, candied fruits, and sometimes premium ingredients like chocolate or dried fruits which can be costly. The traditional method of making panettone involves a lengthy and meticulous process, including multiple stages of rising and careful handling of the dough. Skilled bakers invest a significant amount of time and effort into crafting each panettone by hand. Many high-quality panettone varieties are produced by artisanal bakeries using traditional techniques. Artisanal production often results in smaller batches and more hands-on attention to detail, which can increase the overall cost of production.

And finally, the packaging and
presentation of a Panettone is truly special. Often wrapped and either boxed or placed in a tin, they make the best Christmas gifts for food lovers or
your Christmas hosts – or treat yourself!