Spiced Sienese Fruitcake Topped with Cocoa & Spices
Called the "King of Sienese Sweets," panforte is a specialty of the Tuscan city of Siena. Much like a fruitcake, this dense holiday cake is packed with candied fruits like citron, melon and orange, plus toasted almonds and hazelnuts and a blend of spices. Panforte Nero is a deeply flavored version of the traditional confection, topped with a layer of black pepper, cinnamon, cloves and cocoa powder.
Panforte is an excellent sweet to enjoy after a large feast, since just a few rich bites are wonderfully satisfying. It's traditionally served in small wedges accompanied by espresso or the dessert wine Vin Santo.
Also try the traditional Panforte Margherita from Pasticcerie Sinatti.