Panforte from Siena is a Tuscan traditional Christmas dessert; however, its enveloping flavour of spices and candied citrus fruits makes it delicious all year round. It is a rich and genuine confection which pairs perfectly well with a glass of sweet, liqueur wine.

When did it originate? This dessert has very ancient roots. Its recipe greatly changed in the 13th century, when spices arrived from the East and were added to the ingredient list; it is the spices that give that signature, slightly sour note from which the “Panforte” cake (which means ‘strong, intense bread’) takes its name.

Legend says that the PGI Panforte from Siena Margherita is made from 17 ingredients (spices included), as many as the city quarters. One thing is sure: almonds, honey and candied fruits must be of prime quality, such as those used by the Pasticcerie Sinatti, a great company renowned for their traditional confections from Siena.