Best panettones for Christmas (2024)

Harvey Nichols

Harvey Nichols has taken a classic approach with its panettone offering this Christmas where you'll find the sweet treat brimming with zesty candied orange peel and sultanas dotted throughout the rich, airy and buttery bread. The recipe was created by the bakers of Amaretti Virginia which was founded in 1860 and an almond biscuit and dark chocolate variety is available too.

Piselli

The Italian master bakers at Piselli have packed its traditional panettone with sultanas and candied orange peels. This zesty version is easily the sweetest on our list. Beautifully wrapped, the soft and springy sponge is best paired with ice cream for the perfect festive after-dinner treat. You can also get it with a Cocoa & Chocolate Chip Panettone.

F&M

For luxury lovers, Fortnum & Mason is offering two panettones. A traditional - proved for over 48 hours with a sourdough base and a three-chocolate alternative. The latter has been handmade and given an extra sweet treat twist with white and dark Valrhona chocolate. We’d enjoy this one best with a strong midday cuppa.

Tesco

We were hesitant to try this tiramisu-inspired panettone from Tesco. How could one possibly inspire the spirit of the creamy goodness that is the original Italian dessert in a brioche-esque Christmas classic? The answer is, we hate to say, with difficulty. The subtle hint of coffee in this panettone is palatable, as is the airy and fluffy texture of the filling. For us, however, the caramel coffee filling was a miss. It had sunk all the way to the bottom, for a not-so-appetising surprise.

Waitrose

Waitrose may just have the most extensive flavour varieties of panettone we've seen to date with chocolate, fruited, chestnut & pear, apricot & peach bellini and a gluten-free variation. There’s lots to love about the indulgent Fruited Panettone, which is made from a traditional Italian recipe. In an attractive festive red box, it is rich in butter and embellished with sultanas and candied orange. Bellissimo!

Amazon

For all the Christmas feels, this panettone is a classic. It comes in the perfect size for sharing with friends or family – but surely won’t be around for long. Authentic packaging is also a plus.

Chiostro di Saronno

This Christmas, your taste buds are in for a treat. Chiostro di Saronno is offering a delectable panettone that is a true classic. Delight in the candied fruit and cloud-like texture - all served up in a gift-ready box.

Selfridges

This luxury panettone will go down a treat. Oozing sugary goodness, this lavish loaf boasts irresistibly sweet notes. Its golden-glazed inside is laced with fruit and the risen top is domed as a classic panettone should be. This is a decadent dessert to devour in the lead-up to the Christmas period as is or toasted with butter.

M&S

When it comes to traditional puddings, you can’t beat the totally moreish food from one of London’s most beloved supermarkets. Made in Italy, this panettone follows a classic recipe and features an abundance of candied peel and sultanas embedded in soft bread. Enjoy with a tipple or steaming cup of creamy coffee.

Fenwick

Another good luxury option, this Fenwick panettone comes packaged in a traditional gift box. The dough is sweet and buttery after hours of proving, while the raisins are big and juicy and surrounded by generous shreds of zesty candied orange.