There’s something truly enchanting about the scent of citrus and butter wafting through the kitchen during the holiday season. When I first decided to transform the beloved Italian panettone into cookies, I was on a mission to create a treat that was both festive and easy to share. The result? These delightful Panettone Cookies, which capture the buttery richness and vibrant flavors of traditional panettone, all while being simple enough for an evening bake.
These cookies are not just a festive treat; they’re a culinary joy, packed with candied orange peel, dried black currants, and melty chocolate. They offer a tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth, making them a perfect addition to any holiday cookie tray. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a gathering or simply want to indulge in a comforting sweet treat, these Panettone Cookies provide a scrumptious escape from the usual holiday hustle. Bake up a batch and let the delicious aroma fill your home, creating memories that will linger long after the last cookie is gone.
Why are Panettone Cookies a Must-Bake?
Deliciously Unique: These cookies transform a classic festive bread into a bite-sized delight that boasts all the flavors of traditional panettone.
Citrus Bliss: With notes of fresh oranges and rich chocolate, every bite offers a burst of holiday cheer.
Easy to Make: Perfect for baking novices or seasoned pros, this recipe requires minimal effort for maximum flavor.
Versatile Variations: Make them your own by experimenting with different dried fruits or spices, tailoring your batch to suit your taste.
Perfect for Gifting: These delightful treats make wonderful homemade gifts that’ll surely impress friends and family during the holidays.
Bake these Panettone Cookies and elevate your holiday celebrations with their irresistible charm!
Panettone Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and tenderness; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in browning; light brown sugar can be used for a hint of caramel flavor.
- Egg Yolks – Contributes to the cookies’ richness and moisture; whole eggs can be a substitute, but the texture may vary.
- OO Flour – Gives a fine texture and tender crumb; all-purpose flour works as a suitable alternative.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; feel free to use sea salt if that’s what you have on hand.
- Whole Milk – Adds moisture; try using non-dairy milk for a different twist.
- Orange Extract – Infuses a delicious citrus flavor; replace it with fresh orange zest for a more natural taste.
For the Add-ins
- Almond Slices – Provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor; can be swapped for chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Candied Orange Peel – Adds sweetness and an extra burst of orange flavor; use fresh orange zest if candied peel isn’t available.
- Dried Black Currants – Offer a lovely tart sweetness; substitute with raisins or dried cranberries.
- Finely Chopped Dried Apricots – Contributes chewiness and sweetness; any dried fruit can work well in this mix.
- Semisweet Mini Chocolate Chips – Deliver delightful bursts of chocolate; dark chocolate chips can be used for a richer experience.
- White Chocolate – Ideal for drizzling on top; you can omit it for a less sweet cookie.
Whip up these Panettone Cookies and savor the festive flavors that will dance on your palate!
How to Make Panettone Cookies
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Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Then, blend in the egg yolks, whole milk, and orange extract until well combined.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the OO flour and kosher salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined.
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Incorporate Mix-ins: Fold in the almond slices, candied orange peel, dried black currants, chopped dried apricots, and semisweet mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
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Chill the Dough: Form the dough into logs about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best flavor and texture.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once chilled, slice the logs into rounds about 1/2 inch thick and place them on a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
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Cool and Decorate: Once baked, allow the Panettone Cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. For an extra touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cookies and sprinkle with additional nuts or fruits if desired.
Optional: Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Panettone Cookies?
Elevate your holiday gatherings by pairing these delightful treats with complementary flavors that enhance their festive spirit.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm, creamy cup complements the buttery richness of the cookies while adding a touch of sweetness that enhances the citrus notes.
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Spiced Chai Tea: The warming spices in chai beautifully contrast the cookie’s sweetness and citrus, creating a cozy pairing that invites conversation and comfort.
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Creamy Gelato: Opt for a scoop of vanilla or citrus-flavored gelato. The cold, creamy texture pairs perfectly with the cookies, making for a luxurious bite.
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Cheese Board: Include a selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese. The creamy texture and tanginess balance the sweetness of the cookies for a delightful contrast.
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Mixed Berry Compote: Serve with a spoonful of berry compote; the tartness and freshness of berries accentuate the rich flavors of dried fruits in the cookies.
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Nutty Coffee: A cup of hazelnut or almond coffee provides a nutty aroma that pairs well with the cookie’s flavorful ingredients, making for an indulgent afternoon treat.
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Festive Fruit Salad: Incorporate citrus segments and pomegranate seeds; the freshness and natural sweetness accentuate the cookies while adding a refreshing crunch.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle over the cookies or serve alongside; the sweet, buttery caramel adds a decadent touch that elevates each bite into something special.
Expert Tips for Panettone Cookies
- Use Quality Ingredients: Always choose high-quality butter and fresh ingredients; this enhances the flavor of your Panettone Cookies dramatically.
- Proper Chilling: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the dough helps to maintain the cookie shape and enhances the flavors.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies—remove them when the edges are golden.
- Natural Flavor Boost: For a stronger citrus taste, use fresh orange zest rather than just orange extract in the dough.
- Cool Completely: Allow your cookies to cool on a wire rack before decorating. This prevents the melted chocolate from melting further and keeps your cookies intact.
Panettone Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to mix it up and make these cookies your own with a few delicious twists!
- Dried Fruit Swap: Try using dried cherries or figs for a delightful change of flavor. The sweetness of each will bring a unique twist to your cookies.
- Nutty Crunch: Swap almond slices for chopped walnuts or pecans to add an earthy, rich flavor that complements the sweet notes beautifully.
- Chocolate Lovers: For a bolder chocolate experience, replace semisweet mini chocolate chips with dark chocolate chunks. They’ll create a luxurious blend within the cookie.
- Spice It Up: Integrate warming spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for an extra cozy holiday feel. Just a pinch will elevate your cookies to festive new heights.
- Citrus Burst: Instead of orange extract, use fresh lemon or lime zest for a refreshing zing. It adds a bright contrast to the warm buttery flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of OO flour for a gluten-free version that still maintains the tender crumb we love.
- Sweetener Alternatives: Substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index and a hint of caramel flavor.
- Cacao Nibs: Replace chocolate chips with cacao nibs for a crunchy texture and an earthy chocolate flavor without the sweetness, making for a wonderfully unique cookie.
Get creative and enjoy these Panettone Cookies in a way that best suits your taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Panettone Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy bakers looking to save time during the holidays! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first four steps of the recipe, then shaping it into logs, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating. This chilling process not only melds the flavors but also makes slicing easier. If you wish to prep further, you can freeze the wrapped logs for up to a month; just be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice the chilled or thawed logs, bake, and enjoy your delicious homemade holiday treats with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Panettone Cookies
Airtight Container: Store your Panettone Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming stale.
Refrigeration: If you prefer a firmer cookie, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Make sure they are in an airtight container to avoid moisture absorption.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, place them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes after thawing. This will help restore their chewy texture and delicious flavor.
Panettone Cookies Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ingredients?
Absolutely! When choosing your butter, opt for unsalted butter at room temperature for best results. For the fruits, look for vibrant colors; avoid dried fruits with dark spots or a hard texture to ensure they’re plump and fresh. If using fresh oranges, choose firm ones with a bright skin.
How should I store my Panettone Cookies?
Store your Panettone Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to keep them fresh. Be sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to soggy cookies.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can! To freeze the cookie dough, form it into logs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, slice, and bake as directed.
What if my cookies turn out too dry?
If you find your cookies are dry, it could be due to overbaking. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven when the edges are golden. You can also make sure the flour is measured accurately; too much flour can lead to drier cookies. Use a kitchen scale for precision if possible.
Are these cookies suitable for people with allergies?
Be mindful! These Panettone Cookies contain eggs, dairy, and nuts. If you’re baking for someone with food allergies, consider substitutes like flax eggs, non-dairy butter, and omitting the nuts or using allergen-free varieties. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, your Panettone Cookies will stay fresh at room temperature for about a week. If you find you have leftover cookies, consider freezing them to enjoy at a later date—just remember to thaw and reheat them for the best texture!
Panettone Cookies: Festive Bites Bursting with Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Blend in the egg yolks, whole milk, and orange extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the OO flour and kosher salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined.
- Fold in the almond slices, candied orange peel, dried black currants, chopped dried apricots, and semisweet mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Form the dough into logs about 2 inches in diameter, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the logs into rounds about 1/2 inch thick and place them on a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Drizzle melted white chocolate over the cookies and sprinkle with nuts or fruits if desired.