As the holiday season wraps us in its warm embrace, kitchens everywhere come alive with the enticing aromas of festive treats.Among these, panettone-a conventional Italian sweet bread studded with candied fruit and raisins-holds a special place on many tables. But what if you could transform this beloved holiday staple into an entirely new dessert experience? Enter the decadent panettone bread pudding: a luscious, comforting delight that reimagines leftover slices into a rich, custardy masterpiece. In this article, we’ll explore how to craft this festive favorite, blending tradition with indulgence to create a dessert thatS as celebratory as the season itself. Whether you’re seeking a show-stopping Christmas finale or a cozy winter treat, this recipe promises to elevate your holiday repertoire with every velvety bite.
Decadent Panettone Bread Pudding is a festivity of texture and flavor that elevates a beloved Italian classic into a luxurious dessert perfect for any festive occasion. The secret to this indulgence begins with selecting the right panettone-one with airy crumbs and the subtle sweetness of dried fruits to soak up a velvety custard that’s rich but balanced. Each bite melts into creamy bliss, layered carefully to preserve the iconic bite of the bread while inviting a moist, custardy embrace that all bread pudding enthusiasts cherish.
Prep and Cook Time
- Readiness: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 45 minutes
- Cooling: 15 minutes
Yield
Serves 8 generous portions-perfect for sharing around the holiday table or gifting as a festive treat.
Difficulty level
Medium – ideal for home cooks with some baking experience wanting to impress with comfort-food sophistication.
Ingredients
- 1 large panettone (about 14 oz), torn into 2-inch pieces
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
- Zest of 1 orange for brightness
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for greasing
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh berries or candied citrus peel, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add richness.
- Tear the panettone into rustic 2-inch chunks. Distribute them evenly in the prepared dish,allowing natural pockets to form.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly frothy. Stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and the fresh orange zest to infuse warm and citrus notes.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the panettone, gently pressing the bread down with a spatula to ensure full absorption without destroying the airy texture.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top to promote a golden crust and enhance flavor depth.
- Let the mixture rest for 15 minutes at room temperature; this step allows the panettone to soak thoroughly without becoming soggy.
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is beautifully browned and slightly crisp.
- remove from oven and allow the bread pudding to cool for 15 minutes. This resting time helps the custard firm up for cleaner slices.
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries or candied citrus peel before serving for a festive pop of color and flavor.
Tips for Success
- Select a panettone that’s fresh but not overly soft; this balance ensures it will soak custard without turning mushy.
- room temperature eggs help the custard blend smoothly, preventing curdling and creating a creamier texture.
- Customize your custard by swapping orange zest for lemon or adding a splash of Grand Marnier or Amaretto for a festive twist.
- Make ahead: Prepare the custard-soaked panettone the night before and refrigerate, baking fresh in the morning for enhanced flavor melding.
- For an extra decadent touch, layer sliced toasted almonds or chocolate chips between panettone pieces before pouring custard.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or drizzle with a luscious caramel sauce.Freshly whipped cream infused with a hint of cinnamon can add a delicate spice match. Plate on rustic white dishes to highlight the golden crust and colorful dried fruit pockets. For an elegant finish, sprinkle toasted pistachios or edible gold leaf atop. pair with robust coffee or a dessert wine such as Vin Santo to elevate your dining experience.
| Nutrient | per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 15g |
For more sumptuous holiday desserts,check out our Holiday Dessert Recipes. To deepen your knowledge of panettone, visit food Network’s Panettone Guide.
Q&A
Q&A: Decadent Panettone Bread Pudding – A Festive Delight Recipe
Q1: What makes panettone a perfect choice for bread pudding?
A1: Panettone is an Italian sweet bread famously studded with dried fruits and citrus zest, boasting a light, airy crumb that soaks up custard beautifully. Its rich, fruity flavor elevates classic bread pudding, transforming a humble dessert into a festive celebration of texture and taste. The natural sweetness and fragrant notes imbue every bite with holiday cheer.
Q2: How do you prepare panettone for the bread pudding?
A2: Start by slicing the panettone into uniform cubes-about 1-inch pieces work best to absorb the custard evenly. For extra depth, lightly toast the chunks until golden, which adds a subtle crunch and prevents sogginess. Then, layer the bread cubes in your baking dish, ready to be bathed in a luscious custard mixture.
Q3: What ingredients create the custard for this decadent bread pudding?
A3: The custard is the heart of the pudding-a silky blend of eggs,heavy cream,whole milk,sugar,and vanilla extract. Some recipes call for a splash of spiced rum or orange liqueur to complement panettone’s citrus notes. The custard’s richness seeps into the bread, marrying flavors and creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Q4: Can I customize the recipe with additional flavors or toppings?
A4: Absolutely! Add toasted nuts like pistachios or almonds for crunch, sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or fold in chocolate chips for indulgence. Drizzle with a citrus glaze or dust with powdered sugar before serving to enhance presentation. Fresh berries or a caramel sauce can also add a lovely contrast.
Q5: How long and at what temperature should I bake the bread pudding?
A5: Bake the pudding at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 to 55 minutes. you’ll know it’s done when the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center and the top is golden brown and slightly crisp. Allow it to cool just a bit before serving-this helps the custard finish setting and makes portioning easier.
Q6: Is panettone bread pudding suitable for making ahead?
A6: Yes! It’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Prepare and assemble it the night before, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh on the day of your gathering. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the custard to fully soak in, delivering an even more decadent experience.
Q7: What occasions are best for serving panettone bread pudding?
A7: This luxurious dessert is perfect for holiday feasts, festive brunches, or cozy winter gatherings. Its celebratory ingredients and comforting warmth make it a centerpiece worthy of Christmas,New Year’s Day,or any special occasion that calls for a sweet indulgence.
Q8: How do I store leftovers and can I reheat them?
A8: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until just heated through-avoid overheating to keep the pudding moist and tender. Leftover panettone bread pudding also tastes delightful cold, especially when paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Closing Remarks
As the warmth of the holidays fills the air, this decadent Panettone bread pudding stands as a testament to festive comfort and culinary creativity. With its rich blend of tender Panettone, luscious custard, and indulgent spices, this dessert not only honors tradition but elevates it to new heights. Whether enjoyed by flickering candlelight or shared amidst laughter and cheer, this recipe invites you to savor the season’s sweetest moments-one blissful bite at a time. So next time the holiday spirit beckons, let this Panettone bread pudding be your go-to delight, turning everyday gatherings into unforgettable feasts.
