My Little Treat

To many this cake is synonymous with Christmas as it gains increasing popularity on English festive dining tables.

Is Panettone a cake, or is it a sweet bread? Either way I cannot resist it, and while it is intended for the table on the big day itself, this is the second one I have had this year and it’s still nine days till Christmas.

It hails from Italy, with its origins in the city of Milan, and until relatively recently you would most likely find it in speciality shops or delicatessens here. Now, almost every supermarket will have them on the shelves, and it enjoys similar popularity as in Italy.

There are many variations but to my mind, the fluffy texture is best set off with candied orange, citron and lemon zest as well as raisins. Or you can get them plain, or maybe with chocolate chips.

I like it served with wine like Asti or Prosecco, but my daughter Michelle who lives in Milan, tells me that it is best with a cream made from mascarpone. Mix the mascarpone with the yellow of an egg, sugar and a dash of brandy — it’s Italy’s answer to brandy butter. And really creamy!

Not sure this one will last till the weekend yet alone make it to the dinner table on Thursday next week!

Oh well, still a few more shopping days left.