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carmen mayta/Demand Media

Panettone is a irreplaceable part of the holidays in Italy. The pastry originated in Milan, sometime around the 15th century with the tradition of eating a slice of panettone on January 4 to ensure good health for the coming year. The bread comes in different varieties: studded with candied fruit, covered in chocolate or almond icing or cream-filled. You can serve panettone in more than one way, but for the best luck and fortune, you'll want to do it in the most traditional way.

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carmen mayta/Demand Media

Separate the panettone from its paper layer.

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carmen mayta/Demand Media

Place the panettone upright on a cutting board and slice with a serrated knife, like you would with a round layer cake. Alternatively, turn the panettone loaf on its side and slice 1/2-inch rounds.

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carmen mayta/Demand Media

Toast the rounds in the toaster and place on serving plates. Place individual slices on cake plates. Serve with mascarpone cheese, assorted jams or butter.