6 OF THE BEST

Traditional panettone

Panettone, a feather-light sweet bread studded with candied fruit, is a timehonoured staple in Italian homes over Christmas. Served in thick slices with warm salty butter, it’s blissful with coffee on a chilly day, so it’s hardly surprising that some UK stockists have seen sales rise up to 42 per cent since 2012. During the past five years, interest in the exotic treat has been on a steady incline. Supermarkets are reporting a rise year-onyear, with Waitrose recording an 11 per cent increase in sales in 2019, while Selfridges says panettone outsold Christmas pudding by two to one in 2017 (its fluffy, buttery texture can certainly bring light relief among all the festive dried-fruit creations). Due to its popularity, there has been pressure to make Milan’s “big loaf ” available year round, but it is undoubtedly suited to Christmas more than any other season. We’ve gathered the best of the bunch to try this December.

CARLUCCIO’S PANETTONE TRADIZIONALE £18.95 FOR 1KG

If you love almond flavour, this is for you. A crackled marzipan tops this generous panettone. The dough has welcome notes of vanilla and spice, but the kick of almond masks all other flavours.

8/10

CROSTA & MOLLICA PANETTONE CLASSIC £8.49 FOR 500G, OCADO

Cutting through this petite panettone releases an elegant, milky scent with just the right amount of vanilla. There’s a good ratio of candied peel to dough, and it’s not too squishy – perfect for on-the-fencers looking to give it a go.

9/10