vanilla panna cotta with a caramelized apple chutney

Panna cotta is basically a really thin flan/custard. It's not that difficult to make, all you need is cream, sugar and gelatin, and then the possibilities are endless. This panna cotta is extremely decadent and heavenly light, it's spiked with vanilla and the sweet apple chutney pairs really well with this creamy dessert.

Ingredients for panna cotta:

2 cups heavy cream (or half and half)

1/4 cup sugar

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 packet powdered gelatin

3 1/2 Tbsp cold water

Ingredients for chutney

1-2 peeled and sliced apples

¼ cup brown sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

½ tsp ground nutmeg

Directions for panna cotta:

1) In a medium sized bowl, pour gelatin packet into cold water. Let mixture sit for approx. 10 minutes.

2) In medium sized saucepan, combine cream, and sugar over, let cook under low heat for 5 minutes, then add cinnamon and vanilla.

3) Pour cream into bowl of gelatin, stirring until gelatin is fully dissolved.

4) Grease custard cups with non-stick spray. Pour panna cotta mixture evenly into cups. Cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

4) To serve, run a knife along the edge of the cups to loosen sides. Put cups in a few inches of warm water for 1-2 minutes. Then, using the plate you are serving it on, place the plate upside down on cup, and flip over.

Directions for chutney:

1) Combine apples, brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg in a medium saucepan.

2) Cook under medium heat for 10 minutes, or until mixture thickens.