Paneforte or ‘strong bread’ is a delicious, candied confection, more than a cake. It dates back to the Crusades and is a predecessor of modern day fruitcake.It is often available in Italian food stores at Christmas but you can make one anytime. This version has a lovely hint of chocolate and a bite of extra spice – it is dense and chewy, and nicely studded with chunky whole almonds in each bite.