1000 years ago when this sweet was first discovered it was called “Pan Pepatus” and it was prepared by chemists for nobles, clergymen and very rich families.
This rich sweet was so precious because it contained many ingredients such as: almonds, orange, citron, melon and various very expensive spices. Literally, panforte means strong bread, we believe this is referred to all the spices that give it a pungent taste and chewiness.
PANFORTE
Serves 6-8
Ingredients
- 150 gr flour
- 150 gr powdered sugar
- 150 gr honey
- 100 gr walnuts (peeled)
- 200 gr sweet almonds (peeled)
- 40 gr candied citron
- 200 gr candied pumpkin or candied orange
- 1/2 tea spoon of powdered cinnamon
- a tad of mixed spices
- 1 tea spoon of coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla sugar
- 15 large wafers (as in the catholic communion )
Preparation
Broil the almonds and walnuts, drain and dry them, next, put them in a pan and put them in the oven (200 °C) when they’re toasted, they will be ready.
Chop them up and place them in a large bowl. Thinly slice the citron and the other candied fruits you choose to use (pumpkin, orange), place them in the bowl.
Add spices and the coriander seeds and begin to mix while adding the flour, remember to keep a handful of flour aside.
Cook the powdered sugar (keeping a spoonful away for later) with a spoonful of water and the honey at a very low temperature and while stirring continuously with a wooden spoon.
Tip: When the sugar and honey will begin to bubble take a toothpick dip it in the syrup and then place underneath cold running water. If a little hard ball forms your syrup is ready.
Take the pot off the stove and add the nuts and candied fruit, mix well.Cover the round cake pan with the wafers, you can cut them as to cover the sides of the pan, finally pour the mixture into the pan and use the spoonful of sugar you had previously put aside to cover the top.
Finally heat your oven to 150°C and cook for 30 minutes. When you take your Panforte out of the oven use the tablespoon of vanilla sugar to cover it.
Panforte must be eaten cold!
