Simple Homemade Panettone Recipe in 5 Easy Steps

Once the yeast is activated, you’re ready to bring the dough together. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture, eggs, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Stir the ingredients until a sticky dough forms. Gradually add the softened butter, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully absorbed before adding more. This slow incorporation is key to achieving the soft, elastic texture panettone is known for. Knead the dough for about ten minutes, either by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, until it is smooth and supple. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest in a warm place for one to two hours, or until it doubles in size.