Michigan-Style Panna Cotta (Serves 4)

Panna cotta is an Italian dessert made by simmering together cream, milk and sugar and is then thickened with gelatin. This easy version uses half and half cream and buttermilk. Served with your choice of sweetened fresh Michigan fruit, it’s a lovely finale to any meal.

1 and 1/2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup half and half coffee cream
1 and 1/2 cups buttermilk
1/8 teaspoon vanilla

1. In bowl sprinkle the gelatin over water. Let stand till softened about 5 minutes.

2. In small saucepan combine sugar with half and half. Heat over low heat until sugar dissolves.

3. Remove saucepan from heat, add gelatin mixture. Stir.

4. Combine with buttermilk and vanilla.

5. Pour into four six-ounce ramekins or sherbet dishes. Chill.

6. Serve with sweetened Michigan berries like raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, etc.