Pandolce Basso Low Rise Fruit Bread

During the festive season, Italian homes are filled with the aroma of freshly baked treats that have been passed down through generations. One such delightful creation is the Pandolce Basso, a traditional Italian Christmas fruit bread that is both simple to make and utterly delicious. This bread, with its low-rise nature, is perfect for sharing with loved ones over a warm cup of tea or coffee during the holiday season.

**Pandolce Basso Low Rise Fruit Bread**

**Ingredients:**

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/3 cup golden raisins
– 1/3 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/3 cup candied orange peel, chopped
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– A pinch of salt

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the lemon and orange zest to the butter mixture and mix well to combine.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until a dough forms.

6. Fold in the golden raisins, chopped apricots, candied orange peel, and pine nuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

7. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet and gently pat it down to form a disc about 1 inch thick.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Remove the Pandolce Basso from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

10. Enjoy this delightful Italian fruit bread with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of dessert wine for a cozy and festive treat!

This Pandolce Basso Low Rise Fruit Bread is a wonderful addition to your holiday baking repertoire, bringing a taste of traditional Italian Christmas celebrations to your home. Share this delicious bread with family and friends or wrap it up as a thoughtful homemade gift. The blend of citrusy zests, sweet dried fruits, and crunchy pine nuts creates a delightful flavor combination that is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the magic of Christmas with this delightful recipe!