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A key component of panettone's flavor lies in its dried fruit mixture. Traditionally, candied lemon and orange peel are used, imparting a vibrant citrus aroma and chewy texture. The creator's mother makes her own candied lemon peel, which adds a divine aroma that melts in the mouth. For those interested, recipes for homemade candied peels are shared on the website, but store-bought candied fruits are a fine substitute.
For a personal touch, the recipe calls for soaking dried fruits in hot water for about 10 minutes, which plumps them up and softens the texture. Alternatively, soaking fruits in spirits like rum or brandy can add depth of flavor—a tip provided in additional online instructions.