Baking during the holiday season can bring the warmth of festive traditions into our homes. One delightful Italian Christmas treat that perfectly captures the spirit of the season is the Pandolce Genovese Genoa Fruitcake. Originating from the picturesque city of Genoa, this sweet and aromatic fruitcake is a beloved staple in many Italian households during the festive season. Traditionally enjoyed with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine, this delightful dessert is rich in flavor and steeped in tradition.
**Pandolce Genovese Genoa Christmas Fruitcake**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup dried figs, chopped
– 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup candied orange peel, chopped
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/4 cup almonds, chopped
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the honey and mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped figs, apricots, candied orange peel, raisins, pine nuts, almonds, lemon zest, and orange zest.
4. Add the fruit mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until well combined.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the fruit and butter mixture, alternating with the milk until you have a smooth dough.
7. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round loaf about 8 inches in diameter. Place the loaf onto the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the fruitcake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Remove from the oven and allow the fruitcake to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Enjoy this Pandolce Genovese Genoa Christmas Fruitcake with your loved ones during the holiday season. The combination of rich dried fruits, nuts, and aromatic spices in every bite will transport you to the festive streets of Genoa. Happy baking and Buon Natale!
