pandolce

Often called pandolce genovese, this may have have been inspired by a sweet bread imported from Persia. The modern recipe calls for zibibbo raisins, candied citron, candied pumpkin, sultanas, aniseed, pinenuts, fennel seeds and orange flower water, with optional pistachios and Marsala wine. It's traditionally served at Christmas, after everyone in the family has kissed the cake, sliced by the oldest and served by the youngest member in the family.

Because it can last for days, it was often taken on long sea voyages.