The 2024 World Panettone Championship, organized by the International Federation of Pastry, Gelato, and Chocolate (FIPGC), wrapped up in Naples today, showcasing a remarkable display of skill and creativity across five categories. The competition saw pastry chefs from around the globe face off, with five Italian champions emerging victorious.
Pietro Sparago (pictured), a master of traditional baking from Centurano (Caserta, Campania), known as “The King of Sweets,” claimed first place in the Classic Panettone category. His rendition of the iconic cake was a model of perfection, featuring impeccable fermentation, a delicate balance of flavors, and a light, airy texture.
In the Innovative Panettone category, Domenico Manfredi from Teggiano (Salerno) shook up the competition with his striking creation: a panettone inspired by Gaetano Pesce’s “Tu si ‘na cosa grande”, a tribute song to Naples. Combining an unexpected dough with passion fruit ganache and a bold design, Manfredi’s panettone marked a new frontier in holiday pastries, earning widespread acclaim from both judges and spectators.
Meanwhile, in the Savory Panettone category, Beatrice Volta from Pistoia made waves with her unconventional offering: a panettone infused with spritz and filled with ingredients typically found in an aperitif—tomatoes, olives, and peanuts. Her daring creation, celebrated for its unique flavors and tender crumb, secured her top honors in this innovative and challenging category.
In the Decorated Panettone category, Patrizia Mancuso from Vignate (Milan) triumphed with a refined design that perfectly balanced elegance, creativity, and flavor. Her victory was affirmed by a distinguished panel of judges, including Cinzia Iotti, Molly Coppini, and APEI representatives Emanuele Valsecchi and Vincenzo Donnarumma.
This year’s competition also spotlighted another staple of Italian pastry: pandoro. Raffaele Romano of Solofra (Avellino) claimed the top prize in the Pandoro category with a masterful rendition that paid tribute to the soft, delicate traditions of Venetian baking, elevated by flawless technique and premium quality butter.