Pump Street Panettone 70% Review: A Dark Chocolate Twist on a Classic Italian Bread

Panettone has long been a beloved holiday staple, but Pump Street Chocolate has given it a bold, dark-chocolate makeover. Their Panettone 70% marries the airy, fruit-studded Italian bread with rich, single-origin dark chocolate – a combination that feels both nostalgic and daring. In this review, we’ll break down the texture, flavor, and overall experience of this artisan creation.

Whether you’re a panettone purist or a chocolate lover looking for something new, this review will help you decide if Pump Street’s dark chocolate twist is worth adding to your holiday table. We’ll also compare it to other seasonal treats and share tips on how to enjoy it best.

First Impressions: Packaging and Appearance

Pump Street’s Panettone 70% arrives in a beautifully minimalist box that reflects the brand’s baker-meets-chocolatier ethos. The loaf itself is generously domed, with a golden-brown crust speckled with dark chocolate flecks. Slicing into it reveals a tender, open crumb dotted with candied citrus peel and generous chunks of dark chocolate. The aroma is a heady mix of toasted bread, cocoa, and orange zest – instantly inviting.

The packaging is sturdy and gift-worthy, making it an excellent choice for holiday presents. Unlike mass-market panettone, this one feels handcrafted, with visible imperfections that add to its charm. The chocolate pieces are unevenly distributed, which means every slice offers a slightly different experience – a delight for adventurous eaters.

• The loaf weighs approximately 500g, perfect for sharing over several days.
• The dark chocolate used is Pump Street’s own single-origin, likely from their Uganda 78% bar – rich and fruity.



• The citrus peel is candied in-house, adding a bright, natural sweetness that balances the cocoa’s bitterness.

Taste and Texture: A Dark Chocolate Lover’s Dream

The first bite of Pump Street Panettone 70% is a revelation. The bread is soft and slightly chewy, with a buttery richness that melts on the tongue. The dark chocolate chunks – sourced from Pump Street’s own craft chocolate – are intensely cocoa-forward, with notes of red berries and a hint of earthiness. They don’t overpower the bread; instead, they complement the citrus and vanilla undertones of the panettone.

The 70% cocoa content ensures the chocolate isn’t overly sweet, making this panettone more sophisticated than typical supermarket versions. The candied orange and lemon peel provide bursts of acidity that cut through the richness, while the chocolate adds a satisfying crunch. It’s a textural and flavor journey that evolves with each bite – from soft crumb to melting chocolate to chewy peel.

• Best served slightly warm to soften the chocolate chunks – try toasting a slice for 2 minutes.
• Pairs beautifully with a strong espresso or a glass of vin santo.
• The chocolate content is generous but not overwhelming – about 20% of the total weight.

How It Compares to Other Pump Street Treats

Pump Street is known for its innovative bakes, from the Sourdough & Sea Salt 66% bar to their seasonal pastries. The Panettone 70% stands out as a labor-intensive masterpiece that bridges their baking and chocolate-making expertise. Unlike the Togo - Swiss Milk 44% Mini Bar, which is a portable snack, this panettone is an experience – meant to be savored slowly, perhaps with friends or family.

For those who enjoy the brand’s dark chocolate offerings, such as the Uganda 78% bar, this panettone offers a similar flavor profile in a completely different format. The chocolate chunks are identical to those used in their single-origin bars, so fans will recognize the signature fruity, acidic notes. It’s a clever way to enjoy Pump Street’s chocolate in a festive, shareable form.

• The panettone is available seasonally, so it’s best to order early for holiday gatherings.
• If you’re new to Pump Street, this is a great introduction to their baking line – it’s less intense than pure dark chocolate bars but still showcases their cocoa quality.
• Consider pairing a slice with a square of the Rare Batch Box for a full tasting experience.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

To get the most out of Pump Street Panettone 70%, try serving it slightly toasted. A quick stint in the oven or toaster oven warms the chocolate chunks until they’re gooey, while the bread becomes crisp on the outside and soft inside. A drizzle of honey or a dollop of clotted cream can elevate it further, but the panettone is excellent on its own.

For a festive dessert, cube the panettone and use it in a bread pudding with a dark chocolate sauce. Alternatively, serve it alongside a cheese board – the bitterness of the chocolate pairs wonderfully with aged gouda or blue cheese. A cup of hot chocolate made with Pump Street’s own chocolate would complete the experience.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days – avoid refrigeration.
• The panettone also freezes well; wrap tightly and thaw overnight for fresh-tasting slices.
• For a quick breakfast, top a slice with ricotta and a sprinkle of sea salt.

Pump Street Panettone 70% is a triumphant fusion of Italian baking tradition and craft chocolate innovation. Its balanced bitterness, tender crumb, and high-quality ingredients make it a standout holiday treat. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the brand or a curious newcomer, this panettone is worth seeking out. Explore the full Pump Street collection, including the Rare Batch Box, to discover more artisan delights that celebrate the art of chocolate and baking.