Panettone , a symbol of the Christmas holidays, has also gained a central role in haute cuisine, becoming a distinctive product for many starred chefs . It is no longer just a traditional dessert, but an opportunity to express creativity, enhance the territory and offer a unique proposal to customers.
At the Congusto Institute , panettone is not only the result of great artisanal work: it is also an example of excellent training, which transmits to future professionals in the sector the skills necessary to face complex challenges such as those related to the leavening and management of holiday desserts.
Panettone and Training: From the Laboratory to the Signature Cuisine
Preparing a panettone requires a combination of technical skills, creativity and knowledge of raw materials for every leavener. In the professional courses of Pastry and Bread Making of the Congusto Institute, students learn all the secrets of the trade:
- Natural leavening techniques to obtain softness and fragrance.
- Selection of quality ingredients , for a product that reflects the values of signature cuisine.
- Product design to meet the needs of a market increasingly oriented towards craftsmanship and uniqueness.
Training pastry chefs and bakers means transmitting the ability to innovate while respecting tradition, a fundamental principle for those who aspire to work with nationally and internationally renowned chefs.
The Numbers of the Panettone Market
The artisanal panettone market is constantly growing. According to data from the Sigep Christmas 2024 Observatory by IEG, the consumption of leavened Christmas products in Europe has reached a value of 11.4 billion euros , with an increase of +1.5% compared to 2023 .
In Italy, artisanal panettone represents a significant slice of the confectionery sector, with a growing demand for high-quality products made by expert chefs and pastry chefs. This demand also pushes young professionals to specialize, transforming training into a key element for success in the market.
Panettone Chefs: Examples of Excellence
Among the chefs who have managed to transform panettone into an iconic product we find:
- Antonino Cannavacciuolo , who combines Campania and Piedmontese flavours in highly refined creations.
- Carlo Cracco , with panettone that combines tradition and innovative design.
- Niko Romito , who brings his minimalist philosophy to his Christmas leavened products.
- Massimiliano Alajmo , who enhances the flavours of the Veneto region in his desserts.
Their panettoni are much more than desserts: they represent a statement of style and an opportunity to strengthen the bond with the public.
Panettone as an Opportunity for Restaurateurs
In addition to its symbolic value, panettone offers a significant economic opportunity for restaurateurs. The sale of branded panettone allows you to expand your offering, build customer loyalty and attract new market segments.
According to the data, 45% of Italian consumers are willing to spend more for an artisanal panettone signed by a chef or produced by a high-quality laboratory. This trend demonstrates how panettone can be a real driver of economic growth , especially during the Christmas period.
Tradition, Creativity and Opportunity
Panettone, in its evolution from a traditional dessert to a product of excellence, is a perfect example of how training and innovation can coexist. At Congusto Institute, we believe that training the professionals of the future means offering them the skills to face the market with creativity and awareness, transforming each product into a unique experience.
For chefs and restaurateurs, panettone is not just a dessert, but a story to tell , a tradition to preserve and an opportunity to grow. For future pastry chefs and bakers, it represents a challenge to face with passion and skill, with the awareness of contributing to a constantly evolving market.