The panettone dates back to the 15th century but has roots even earlier in the Roman Empire, where basic cake “bread” was sweetened with honey. Since these times, popes and emperors have been served variations of this buttery, leavened dough, particularly around Christmas. The prestige of the panettone developed culturally and became a Holiday tradition in Italy.
By the middle of the 20th century, panettone was the most popular treat to enjoy at Christmas. This widespread appeal was partly due to enterprising chefs in Milan that refined the appearance, texture and process of making panettone and then mass-produced it for the rest of Italy.
Watch Chef Francesco create our famous, authentic panettone right here in our Scarborough bakery.
Chef Francesco spent time with Valter Tagliazucchi, friend, master panettone maker and owner of Pasticceria Giamberlano in Pavullo nel Frignano, a small town in the Emilia Romagna region of Italy, south of Modena. His goal was to perfect the art of panettone making and bring it to Toronto. Valter’s catch phrase with regards to panettone is “solo con i migliori” which translates to “only with the best”. A reference to his choice of uncompromising quality of ingredients and techniques, which he has instilled in Francesco.
The panettone made at Francesca Bakery are made with high-quality Italian ingredients, time-honoured processes, and artisan experience passed down through generations. Our bakery also uses natural yeast that was cultured in Italy over 50 years ago.
Panettone is not just a recipe; it’s a craft. The specialized dough texture, leavening balance, delicate baking and resting steps leave no room for error. Our dough has been carefully crafted, with a slow three-day fermenting process. This creates that notable, delicate texture and flavour the world’s best panettone are known for.
Panettone Menu for 2021 Holiday Season
After much research – including trial and error, along with invaluable mentorship, patience and perseverance, Francesco Battaglia is proud to offer this season’s flavours.
Panettone Flavours:
Tradizionale – classic panettone with candied Sicilian lemon and orange peel, golden raisins and candied apricots, and an almond glaze
Black Forest – Dark Chocolate panettone dough, with candied amarena cherries, white chocolate chunks, and a white chocolate kirsch glaze
Triplo Cioccolato – Dark chocolate panettone dough, intense dark chocolate chips, dark chocolate glaze and chocolate vermicelli
- Nocciolato: IGP Piemonte hazelnut and brown butter panettone dough, with candied apricot and orange peel, toasted hazelnuts and gianduia glaze with caramelized hazelnuts
Look for our new packaging. Our elegant boxes are great for Holiday parties, family celebrations and office gifts. Call 416-299-1174 for all of your Holiday treats and pastries.
