Christmas Day is about togetherness, comfort, and creating memories around the table. This year, turn leftover Italian holiday cakes into a delicious family activity—transforming pandoro and panettone into gourmet treats everyone can make and enjoy together.
Pandoro French Toast: A Family Brunch Classic
This recipe is perfect for a family brunch, letting everyone participate and enjoy the sweet scent of Christmas morning.
Ingredients:
4 slices of pandoro (about 3/4 inch thick)
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Vanilla Butter for the pan
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Maple syrup, honey, or jam of your choice (optional)
Fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, bananas; optional)
Instructions:
1.Mix Together: In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2.Slice the Pandoro: Cut into 3/4 inch thick slices. If they’re too large, halve them.
3.Soak: Dip each slice in the egg mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated but not soggy.
4.Cook: Heat butter in a non-stick pan over medium. Cook the soaked slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
5.Serve: Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm. Let everyone add their favorite toppings—maple syrup, honey, jam, or fresh fruit.
Panettone Tiramisù: Make-Ahead Family Dessert
This festive twist on the classic Italian tiramisù is light, creamy, and infused with the unmistakable flavor of Christmas. It’s a perfect make-ahead treat for your Christmas Day table or a sweet project for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
300 g Vergani panettone
1 cup mascarpone
3 fresh eggs
1/2 cup sugar
3/4 cup coffee (cooled)
Unsweetened cocoa powder
1.75 oz dark chocolate (optional)
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1.Mascarpone Cream: Separate yolks and whites. Beat yolks with sugar until light and fluffy, then gently fold in mascarpone. In a clean bowl, beat whites with salt until stiff; fold into mascarpone mixture.
2.Assemble: Slice panettone (1/2 inch thick), dip in cooled coffee, and layer in a baking dish. Alternate layers of panettone and mascarpone cream, finishing with cream.
3.Finishing: Dust with cocoa powder and, if you like, grated dark chocolate. Refrigerate 2-3 hours (or overnight).
4.Serving: Slice and serve cold.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What if I don’t have pandoro or panettone?
Brioche or challah are excellent substitutes, but Italian cakes offer unique holiday flavor.
Is it safe to use raw eggs in tiramisù?
Use pasteurized eggs or very fresh eggs for safety, or gently heat yolks and sugar over a bain-marie before mixing.
What are the best toppings or pairings?
Serve with berries, whipped cream, or artisan honey. Enjoy with espresso or premium holiday tea for a festive touch.
How can I get kids involved in Christmas cooking?
Let children whisk, dip, layer, or decorate—simple steps make them feel included and create lasting memories.
Are these recipes good for making ahead?
Tiramisù is ideal for prepping the night before. French toast is best fresh, but you can prep the dipping mixture in advance.