Celebrate Christmas in Brazil with Homemade Panettone

Panettone is a cherished part of Brazilian Christmas celebrations. This light and airy bread, filled with dried fruits or chocolate, is a usual part of holiday tables across the country.

Although it originated in Italy, Brazilians have embraced it as their own, making it a must-have treat during the festive season. Served alongside coffee or enjoyed as a dessert, panettone is a delicious and heartwarming way to bring people together during the holidays.

Christmas in Brazil is truly unique, as it falls in the middle of summer. Families gather to celebrate with outdoor feasts, enjoying the warm weather and the joyful spirit of the season.

Traditional dishes often include rice with raisins, roasted meats, farofa, and rabanada, with panettone taking center stage for dessert.

This recipe allows you to recreate this beloved tradition at home, adding a taste of Brazilian Christmas to your celebrations, no matter where you are.

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Homemade Panettone Recipe

Bring a taste of Brazilian holiday cheer to your table with this light and fluffy panettone, filled with raisins, candied fruits, or chocolate. Perfect as a dessert or with coffee, this traditional treat is a festive favorite that's easy to make at home.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Rising Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine Brazilian

Servings 10 Servings

Calories 310 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Stand mixer Optional
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Panettone mold or a tall round baking pan
• Baking sheet

Ingredients

  

For the Dough:

• 4 Cups All-purpose flour plus extra for kneading
• ⅓ Cup Granulated sugar
• ¼ Salt
• 2¼ Tsp Active dry yeast
• ½ Cup Warm milk
• 3 Whole Large eggs room temperature
• ½ Cup Unsalted butter softened

For the Filling:

• ½ Cup Raisins soaked in warm water or rum for 15 minutes
• ⅓ Cup Candied orange peel or mixed candied fruits
• ⅓ Cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips optional, for variation

For Brushing:

• 1 Egg yolk
• 1 Tbsp Milk

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Yeast:

  In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. 
  
• Make the Dough Base:

  In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until the dough starts to come together. 
  
• Knead the Dough:

  Knead the dough by hand on a floured surface for about 10 minutes (or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6-8 minutes) until it is smooth and elastic. 
  
• Incorporate the Filling:

  Gently fold in the drained raisins, candied fruits, and chocolate chips (if using). Ensure even distribution. 
  
• First Rise:

  Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size. 
  
• Shape the Panettone:

  Punch down the dough to release air. Shape it into a ball and place it in a panettone mold or tall round baking pan lined with parchment paper.
  
• Second Rise:

  Cover the dough loosely with a towel and let it rise again for about 45 minutes, or until it nearly reaches the top of the mold.
  
• Prepare for Baking:

  Mix the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of milk. Brush this mixture over the top of the dough for a glossy finish.
  
• Bake:

  Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  Place the panettone on a baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. 
  
• Cool

  Let the panettone cool in the mold for 10-15 minutes.

  Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
  

Video

Notes

• Flavor Boost: Soak raisins in rum for added richness, or use water for a non-alcoholic version.
• Browning: If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during baking.
• Enhanced Flavor: Rest the panettone overnight; the flavors meld beautifully over time.

Keyword Brazilian Christmas, Candied Fruit, Cheese Bread, Chocolate, Dessert, Homemade, Panettone, Traditional Cuisine

FAQs

Can I make panettone without a special mold?

Yes, you can! If you don’t have a panettone mold, use a tall round baking pan, like a deep cake tin or even a clean, empty coffee can lined with parchment paper. The goal is to give the panettone its characteristic tall shape.

How do I store leftover panettone?

Wrap the panettone tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it from drying out. Store it at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Can I make panettone gluten-free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour that includes xanthan gum. Be aware that the texture might differ slightly, but it will still taste delicious!

What are some alternative fillings for panettone?

If you want to try something different, swap out the raisins and candied fruits for nuts, dried cranberries, chopped figs, or caramel bits. For a more indulgent version, try swirls of Nutella or dulce de leche.

Final Thoughts

Panettone is a holiday bread filled with tradition and memories. Making it at home takes time and patience. The result is worth the effort. A golden loaf will bring everyone together at the table. Whether you are celebrating Christmas in Brazil or anywhere else, this recipe helps you share a cherished tradition. Pair it with coffee or enjoy it toasted with butter.