Panettone

Recipe View **Prepare the Sponge (30 minutes):** In a small bowl warmed with hot water, dissolve 1 package of yeast in warm water. Stir in 1/2 cup flour, cover with plastic wrap, and let stand until doubled.

Recipe View **Activate the Yeast Mixture:** Sprinkle remaining yeast over warm milk and let stand until dissolved.

Recipe View **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, beat together sugar, eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Stir in the milk-yeast mixture, then add the sponge and mix until well incorporated.

Recipe View **Incorporate Dry Ingredients & Fruit (3-4 minutes):** Combine softened butter and remaining 3 1/2 cups flour until crumbly. Slowly pour in the egg mixture and beat on high speed until the dough is elastic and forms long strands. Beat in the candied fruit and zests.

Recipe View **First Rise (2-3 hours):** Turn the dough into an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size.

Recipe View **Prepare the Molds:** Brush the inside of three 7 x 4-inch paper molds with melted butter.

Recipe View **Shape and Second Rise (2 hours):** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface and knead a few times to deflate. Divide the dough into 3 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place it into a prepared mold. Place the molds on a baking sheet about 4 inches apart and cover loosely with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place until doubled again.

Recipe View **Preheat & Prepare for Baking:** Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Cut an X in the top of each loaf with oiled scissors. Combine egg yolk and cream to make an egg wash. Brush the tops of the loaves lightly with the egg wash.

Recipe View **Bake (40 minutes):** Place the baking sheet with the loaves in the bottom 1/3 of the preheated oven. After 10 minutes, lower the heat to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Continue to bake for 30 more minutes. If the tops get too brown, cover them with foil. Loaves are done when a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Recipe View **Cool:** Cool the Panettone loaves completely on a wire rack before serving.