Pandoro is a soaring star-shaped cake with a delicious golden brioche-like center and a lovely vanilla butter aroma. It even comes boxed with a packet of confectioners’ sugar to sprinkle on top, to enhance its festive, Christmas-tree appearance. Italy sets many strict rules for its production, including the use of only natural yeast, farm fresh eggs, and no less than 20% butter.

In the USA, real estate agents suggest creating homey fragrances in the kitchens of homes for sale: apples simmered with cinnamon or chocolate chip cookies baking. In Italy, realtors suggest setting pandoro on the radiator to release its intoxicating aroma and entice buyers.