Mark Bittman's Pumpkin Panna Cotta

I'm thrilled to know that this summer-like heat will finally start to abate this week - but in the meantime, when craving a refreshing sweet, I'm turning to food journalist Mark Bittman's recipe for Pumpkin Panna Cotta. Both the flavor and texture of this dessert are richly decadent, and I find it provides just the perfect hint of autumn on these unseasonably warm November days!

Pumpkin Panna Cotta

1 ½ cups milk
1 envelope unflavored gelatin
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup pureed pumpkin, squash or sweet potato
½ cup sugar
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Put 1/2 cup of the milk in a 6- or 8-cup saucepan, and sprinkle the gelatin over it. Let sit for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, blend together the remaining milk, cream, pumpkin, sugar and cinnamon. The mixture should be perfectly smooth, so it is best to use a blender.

Turn the heat under the saucepan to low, and cook the milk, stirring occasionally, until the gelatin dissolves. Pour in the cream mixture, and turn the heat to medium. Cook, stirring occasionally, until steam rises. Turn off the heat, and ladle or pour the mixture into 8 4-ounce ramekins or other containers.

Chill the panna cotta until firm, and serve, with creme fraiche or whipped cream if you like.

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