By
9 months ago
'Tis the season
Panettone is up there with some of the most elite Christmas foods, along with mince pies and pigs-in-blankets. The Italian bread is native to Milan, but it has become a winter staple in households all over the world, including the UK – typically enjoyed as a sweet breakfast or festive afternoon snack.
Characterised by its cloud-like consistency, a traditional panettone is made with orange peel and raisins, but nowadays you can get lots of different twists – from chocolate-covered creations to boozy versions and fruity numbers. So where to find the best in town? Read on for the best panettones to buy for Christmas 2024.
Best for: chocolate lovers
M&S’ Christmas collection is always a treat. Sweet-toothed diners will love its Triple Chocolate Panettone, which is jazzed up with milk and dark chocolate chips and a chocolate sauce, then coated in dark chocolate.
£10.20, ocado.com
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Best for: traditionalists
For lovers of the classic version, Fortnum & Mason’s offering is sure to impress, with bread proved for over 48 hours to give it that light, fluffy feel.
£44.95, fortnumandmason.com
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Best for: a healthy alternative
This organic wholewheat Panettone comes straight from Italy, softly leavened and chock-full of candied peels and sultanas. Because it’s full of olive oil instead of butter, this is a healthier pick for those seeking a lighter Christmas treat.
£20.40, lavialla.com
Best for: luxury seekers
One of the top reviews for this panettone simply reads: ‘Yummy. Eat more’. We couldn’t agree more – oozing limoncello cream with every bite, dotted with lemon peels, this festive number is staunchly traditional yet feels different and decadent.
£29, dukeshill.com
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Best for: a well-executed classic
Artisanal panettone in a beautiful gift box from an excellent Italian restaurant – what’s not to love? This spin on the classic is not too fruity, but rather briochy and exceptionally buttery.
From £42, enquire via email.
Best for: giving it a go yourself
There’s nothing more special than bringing a home-baked treat to the table, and this DIY kit from Riverford teaches you to make a fresh, zesty panettone from scratch. It does help that everything arrives neatly portioned out for you, and any fears about the thing will be further dispelled as the recipe is super simple.
£16.95, riverford.com
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Best for: overall taste
Honestly, we should probably be gatekeeping this panettone; this little loaf caused a fight in the office. Who should be allowed to bring home the (scant) leftovers? The pistachio in this treat is silky, rich and oh-so-generous, while the buttery flesh is soft and pairs beautifully with a cup of tea. And it’s covered in chocolate. What a win.
£35, ottolenghi.co.uk
Cover image via Il Gattopardo
