This rich, buttery dome-shaped brioche bread is studded with chopped dried figs and dark chocolate chips, and it is scented with natural vanilla. The dough is made with a special natural yeast and allowed to rise three times, or almost 20 hours, before baking.

Panettone is traditionally served after the Christmas meal along with a glass of dessert wine or bubbly wine, accompanied by dishes of mixed nuts, dried fruit, torrone and other holiday confections. Panettone can be warmed for a few minutes in a very hot oven and served with crème anglaise or fresh cream whisked with mascarpone. Leftover Panettone makes a delicious French toast or bread pudding.