Some people start baking for Christmas in December.
In Castelfranco Veneto, they start in June.
And no, that’s not a typo.
We visited Fraccaro Spumadoro on June 16, and the air inside the factory was already thick with the sweet, spiced promise of the holidays.
Rows of golden panettoni—still unbaked—lined the trays like little suns, dotted with raisins and orange peel.
Just meters away, more were in the ovens, rising gently into domes of warmth.
But the real showstopper?
Rows upon rows of freshly baked panettoni cooling upside down on giant racks, suspended mid-air like edible chandeliers.
Behind all that buttery magic is a family story that’s been fermenting beautifully since 1932.
Founded by Elena and Giovanni Fraccaro, this bakery has grown into something more than just a business—it’s a bond.
What touched us most during the visit wasn’t the cutting-edge tech or the gorgeous gift packaging (though yes, they’re both impressive).
It was the sense of closeness: how every generation of the Fraccaro family is involved, how they speak of the bakery like it’s a living thing, and how their relationships seem to have risen and matured just like their dough.
At the heart of it all is their mother yeast—a natural starter they’ve been keeping alive since day one.
It’s their secret ingredient and sacred heirloom, giving each creation its soft texture, floral aroma, and soul.
They’re also not afraid of reinvention.
Each year, the family experiments with a new seasonal flavor to add to their signature lineup.
We saw this year’s batch already in production—still top secret, but let’s just say the fragrance was worth bottling.
Of course, the tasting room didn’t disappoint.
From classic golden loaves wrapped in jewel-toned paper to playful tins adorned with holly leaves and satin bows, Fraccaro’s packaging alone could earn a spot under your tree.
And the flavor?
Think cloud-soft crumb, tiny bursts of citrus and raisin, and a richness that lingers like the memory of your favorite holiday.
For the Expat in China
If you're missing home, family dinners, or just the smell of something warm and wonderful baking in the oven, Fraccaro Spumadoro is a taste worth knowing.
This is a family business that has perfected the art of turning tradition into joy—and wrapping it with a bow.
Want a slice of that joy? Follow them on Instagram: @pasticceriafraccaro
READ MORE: Influencers Join Forces to Showcase Italian Agri-Food Excellence in Veneto
[All images by Billy Jiang/That's]
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