Strenna (cake)

The Strenna is a traditional Italian sweet bread, similar to panettone and pandoro, commonly enjoyed during the Christmas and New Year holiday season. Originating from the city of Ferrara in the Emilia-Romagna region, it's characterized by its star-shaped (usually eight-pointed) profile, achieved through specialized baking tins.

The dough is enriched with butter, eggs, and sugar, contributing to its soft and airy texture. Often, candied citrus peel is incorporated, providing a characteristic aroma and flavour. While the basic recipe remains consistent, variations exist across different bakeries and regions, some including almonds or other nuts.

Unlike panettone, Strenna generally lacks raisins. Its production often involves a long and careful leavening process, contributing to its light and digestible nature. It's typically served sliced and dusted with powdered sugar, and enjoyed with coffee, sweet wine, or dessert liqueurs.