While many of us think of pizza and pasta when we think of Italian food, Italian desserts should not be forgotten! From gelato to cannoli, Italian desserts never fail to be delicious. While those desserts may be a bit more difficult to make at home, how about an easy, cool, indulgent chocolate panna cotta? Perfect for any season and any occasion, you can “dress it up” with homemade whipped cream and berries, or eat it as is.

Chocolate Panna Cotta

· 1/3 cup whole milk

· 1/3 cup whipping cream

· 1 oz 70% dark chocolate

· 3 Tbsp sugar

· 1 ½ sheets gelatin

Soften the gelatin in a bowl of cold water. Bring the milk to a simmer, then add the chocolate and melt together. Be sure to keep the temperature low as the chocolate melts or it can seize. Add the rest of the ingredients other than the gelatin, stir well, and bring to a near boil. Gently squeeze the excess water from the gelatin and add it to the mixture. Stir to dissolve and then turn off the heat. Pour the chocolate mixture into two ramekins, dessert bowls, or any other small dish you choose. (If you want to get fancy, lightly grease your dishes so you can turn out the panna cotta once it has cooled). Cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.