Ingredients

Biga Starter

60 grams flour (0.5 cup)
33 milliliters water (2 tablespoons)
1 gram instant yeast (0.25 teaspoon)
We recommend:
For instant yeast:
Prime LeSaffre Saf-Instant Yeast, Gold, 1 Pound
4.7
(9,538) LeSaffre Saf-Instant Yeast, Gold, 1 Pound $9.70 View details

Main Dough

340 grams flour (2.5 cups)
100 grams sugar (0.5 cup)
120 grams butter (0.5 pound, softened)
150 milliliters milk (0.5 cup)
4 large eggs
8 grams salt (1 teaspoon)
50 grams candied orange peel (0.5 cup)
Zest of 1 orange
We recommend:
For all-purpose flour:
Prime Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour, 22 Ounce (Pack of 4)
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(9,312) Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour, 22 Ounce (Pack of 4) $23.96 View details Prime Antimo Caputo Chefs Flour - Italian Double Zero 00 - Soft Wheat for Pizza Dough, Bread, & Pasta, 2.2 Lb (Pack of 2)
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For granulated sugar:
Prime best seller Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar Cubes, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO,Pack of 1
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(18,788) Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Baking, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Bulk Sugar, 2lb Bag (1-Pack) $3.74 $4.14 View details Prime C&H Pure Cane Granulated White Sugar, 25-Pound Bags
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(205) C&H Pure Cane Granulated White Sugar, 25-Pound Bags $56.99 $49.98 View details
For unsalted butter:
Prime Kevala Cashew Butter 7 Lbs Pail
4.5
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For candied orange peel:
Prime Amifruit Candied Lemon Peel Strips 2.2 lb. Ready To Eat Lemon Peel Strips Slowly Candied In Sugar Syrup, Gluten Free, GMO Free, Trans Fat Free, Vegan
5
(4) Amifruit Candied Lemon Peel Strips 2.2 lb. Ready To Eat Lemon Peel Strips Slowly Candied In Sugar Syrup, Gluten Free, GMO Free, Trans Fat Free, Vegan $44.99 View details Savory Spice Candied Orange Peel Strips - Sliced Candied Orange Peels for Baking, Snacking & Decorating | Garnish Cocktails or Add to Trail Mix (1 Cup Bag: Net 3.6 oz)
5
(1) Savory Spice Candied Orange Peel Strips - Sliced Candied Orange Peels for Baking, Snacking & Decorating | Garnish Cocktails or Add to Trail Mix (1 Cup Bag: Net 3.6 oz) $17.99 View details
For orange zest:
Prime LorAnn Orange Bakery Emulsion, 4 ounce bottle
4.5
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Orange-Vanilla Paste

2 oranges, juiced
1 vanilla pod or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
50 grams sugar (0.25 cup)
We recommend:
For granulated sugar:
Prime best seller Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar Cubes, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO,Pack of 1
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(18,788) Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Baking, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Bulk Sugar, 2lb Bag (1-Pack) $3.74 $4.14 View details Prime C&H Pure Cane Granulated White Sugar, 25-Pound Bags
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Orange Caramel

100 grams sugar (0.5 cup)
50 milliliters water (0.25 cup)
1 orange, juiced
We recommend:
For granulated sugar:
Prime best seller Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar Cubes, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO,Pack of 1
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4.8
(18,788) Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Baking, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Bulk Sugar, 2lb Bag (1-Pack) $3.74 $4.14 View details Prime C&H Pure Cane Granulated White Sugar, 25-Pound Bags
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Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Biga Starter

Mix *flour*, *water*, and *yeast* together in a small bowl until a dough forms. Cover with a cloth and let it ferment overnight at room temperature.

Step 2

Make the Orange-Vanilla Paste

Combine *juice of oranges*, *sugar*, and *vanilla* in a saucepan. Heat gently, stirring until sugar dissolves. Let it simmer until it thickens. Allow it to cool.

Step 3

Prepare the Main Dough

Combine *flour* and *sugar* in a bowl. Add *milk*, *eggs*, and the *biga starter*, mixing thoroughly. Add the *softened butter* gradually, mixing to incorporate. Stir in *salt*, *candied orange*, and *orange zest*.

Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Cover it, allowing it to rest until it doubles in size.

Step 4

Prepare the Orange Caramel

In a saucepan, combine *sugar* and *water*. Heat until the sugar caramelizes to an amber color. Remove from heat and stir in *orange juice*. Allow it to cool before using.

Step 5

Bake the Panettone

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Shape the dough into a round and place it in a panettone mold or a tall cake tin. Let it rise until *doubled in size*. Brush with *orange-vanilla paste*.

Bake for 45-50 minutes, ensuring it's cooked through but not overly browned. Cool completely before slicing.

Servings

**Serve your Caramel-Orange Panettone in style!** 🍊✨ Slice it into thick wedges for breakfast or brunch, pairing perfectly with a hot espresso or a frothy cappuccino for an authentically Italian experience. ☕️

For a spectacular dessert, turn a slice into a base for your favorite toppings—consider whipped cream and fresh berries, or even a scoop of vanilla gelato for an indulgent treat! 🍨

Feeling festive? Dress up your panettone with a homemade glaze or sprinkle with powdered sugar, adding an extra pop of sweetness and visual appeal. 🎉 Get creative and incorporate nuts or candied fruit for a personalized touch that’s bound to wow your guests. Don’t forget—panettone makes a heartfelt homemade gift, especially when wrapped in decorative paper and tied with a festive ribbon! 🎁

Equipment

Mixing Bowl

A large, sturdy mixing bowl is essential for blending your ingredients smoothly. Consider using a glass or stainless steel bowl to avoid unwanted flavors absorbing into your dough.

We recommend:
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Stand Mixer with Dough Hook

This is a lifesaver for kneading the dough to the perfect consistency without exhausting your arms. Remember to adjust the speed gradually to prevent splatters!

We recommend:
Prime Aucma Stand Mixer,6.5-QT 660W 6-Speed Tilt-Head Food Mixer, Kitchen Electric Mixer with Dough Hook, Wire Whip & Beater 2 Layer Red Painting (6.5QT, Red)
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Saucepan

Used for preparing your aromatic orange caramel and paste, a medium-sized saucepan will be your go-to. Opt for a non-stick option to prevent burning.

We recommend:
Prime Utopia Kitchen Nonstick Saucepan Set with Lid, 1 Quart and 2 Quarts Multipurpose Pots Set for Home Kitchen or Restaurant (Grey-Black)
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A Cake Tin or Panettone Mold

For that classic panettone shape, use a tall, straight-sided cake tin. If you're using a mold, ensure it's well-supported to avoid any spills.

Variations

Gluten-Free Variation: 🔄

Transform this recipe to be gluten-free by swapping traditional flour with a high-quality gluten-free baking blend. Pay extra attention to the texture, kneading carefully to ensure the dough remains elastic and not too sticky. Adjust liquids as needed.

Vegan Variation: 🌱

For a vegan twist, replace butter with coconut oil or your favorite plant-based alternative, and use flaxseed meal mixed with water as a substitute for eggs. The luscious orange caramel has never been easier to adapt—just ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly! 🧁

Faq

  • Why is my panettone dough so sticky?

    Pannetonne dough can be sticky due to its high hydration level, which is what makes it so moist. Make sure to lightly flour your hands and the work surface to make handling easier.

  • How long should I let my dough rise?

    The first rise should take about 1 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size. Factors like temperature and yeast freshness can affect timing, so be patient and give it the time it needs.

  • Can I make panettone without a mold?

    Absolutely! Use a tall cake tin instead, adjusting to your desired size. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may differ slightly without the classic mold shape.

  • How do I achieve the best orange flavor?

    For maximum orange flavor, use fresh orange zest and juice. Combining these with the homemade orange caramel elevates the citrus essence to the next level!

  • What’s the best way to store panettone?

    To keep your panettone fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in a sealed bag at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze slices individually.

  • Can I prep the panettone dough ahead of time?

    Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. After the first rise, punch it down and refrigerate overnight. Allow it to return to room temperature before the second rise and baking.

Nutrition facts

Caramel Orange Panettone for Easter Delight
Recipe Yield:1 large panettone
Calories:Estimated calories per 100g slice
Calories (Min - Max):350 - 400
Total Fat:15g
Saturated Fat:9g
Protein:8g
Total Carbohydrate:50g
Total Sugars:25g