Panettone: Italy’s Most Iconic Holiday Sweet
Every December, Italian homes fill with the unmistakable aroma of Panettone: a dome shaped, cloud-soft sweet bread that signals one thing: the holidays have officially arrived. Don’t let the word “bread” confuse you, though: Panettone is a dessert, breakfast staple during the Holidays & mid-day treat. It is usually wrapped in festive paper, gifted during gatherings, and a must-have under our Christmas trees throughout the month of December. So, Panettone is more than a dessert to us: it’s a tradition that carries centuries of stories, family memories, and regional pride.
The Cultural Significance of Panettone
Panettone originated in Milan during the Renaissance and has since become Italy’s most recognized Christmas symbol. For Italians, it represents generosity, celebration, and abundance…which is why it’s exchanged among friends, colleagues, and families as a gesture of goodwill.
Opening a Panettone is a ritual of its own: the crinkle of the paper, the scent of citrus and vanilla, and the first slice shared at the table. It’s a moment of togetherness. In many families, Panettone rounds out the Christmas Eve feast or concludes the long pranzo di Natale on December 25.
What Makes Panettone Special
Panettone is known for:
Its tall dome shape: the result of long, natural fermentation & upside down technique.
A pillowy, airy texture thanks to a slow, multi-day rising process.
Classic flavours like candied orange, citron, and raisins.
Modern varieties such as chocolate, pistachio cream-filled, pear & chocolate, chestnut, amarena cherry, and more.
True artisanal Panettone requires patience, technique, and high-quality ingredients, which is why Italian households fiercely debate which brand is the “best.”
How to Enjoy Panettone
There are countless delicious ways to enjoy it:
Traditional: served at room temperature with an espresso or dessert wine.
Toasted: lightly warm a slice and drizzle with honey & jam.
Dessert: topped with mascarpone cream, pistachio, Nutella, or custard.
Breakfast: toasted with butter, a cappuccino, or turned into French toast.
Creative: use leftovers for bread pudding or trifle.
Panettone at Lina’s
For over 30 years, our brand has proudly brought this lovely Italian tradition to Calgary, offering a great selection of Panettoni (Panettone is singular, Panettoni is plural) straight from Italy’s most beloved artisans.
Because no holiday season is complete without the scent, and the joy, of Panettone.
Lina’s Homemade panettone.
Created by our expert bakers & available in limited quantities.