You Can Now Pick Up Gelato-Stuffed Panettone in Sydney So That's Your Christmas Dessert Sorted 

December is officially here, it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas — and, as a result, it's beginning to look a lot like prime festive dessert season, too. Sure, everyone loves the parties and drinks and presents that are all part and parcel of this time of year (and the markets, lights, decorations and whatever Mariah Carey is gifting us), but can you really say it's the merriest month in the calendar if you haven't devoured all the sweet treats possible?

To tempt our tastebuds, plenty of dessert joints whip up festive specials. You might've tried Messina's take on the trifle more than once, for instance. This year, Mr Gelato by Matteo is joining in with two ice cream-stuffed options — and yes, getting stuck into a gelato-stuffed panettone is now at the top of your wish list.

Forget regular ol' raisin-stuffed sweet bread, because this one comes filled with the gelato flavour of your choice, then topped with melted dark chocolate and hazelnuts. That'll set you back $60, as will Mr Gelato's pandoro Christmas special, which can be filled with Nutella, custard, zabaglione semifreddo or gelato.

To add one to your December 25 menu — or to get feasting before then; 'tis already the season — you'll need to place an order with Mr Gelato by Matteo's Northern Beaches stores. So, that's great news if you're in the Collaroy or Freshwater areas, or if heading across town for the perfect dessert is your idea of a stellar Christmas.

Mr Gelato by Matteo is serving up its gelato-filled panettone and pandoro at its Northern Beaches stores — at Collaroy (1119c Pittwater Road) and Freshwater (11/1-3 Moore Road). For further details, head to the chain's website.