Athena Plichta Photography

cooler weather, leaves turning color, the arrival of fall produce -- typical signs of autumn making its appearance. for me, it's also going into the grocery store and seeing the shelves stocked with panettone, signaling the start of the holiday season. i have memories of my mother buying panettone when i was a little, beginning when we lived in italy; more than a seasonal treat, this bread transports me back to my 8-year-old self.

in my humble opinion, panettone is best eaten alone... sliced from the loaf or simply pulled off in fluffy chunks to be savored with a cold drink. but if you wish to play with it a little, try it as french toast (per this particular brand's suggestion). it's a delicious alternative, albeit a less healthier one with all the frying in butter and topping with syrup...