Mānuka Honey Panna Cotta

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 1/4 cup Manuka honey (UMF™ 5+ or higher for health benefits)

• 1 1/2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin powder

• 2 tablespoons cold water

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Fresh berries (optional, for garnish)

• Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Gelatin:
   In a small bowl, mix the gelatin with cold water and let it bloom for 5-10 minutes until it becomes thick.

2. Heat the Cream and Milk:
   In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and milk. Gently heat over medium heat, stirring frequently. Don’t let it boil – just heat until warm.

3. Add the Manuka Honey:
   Once the cream mixture is warm, add the Mānuka honey and stir until it dissolves completely. This will give the panna cotta a rich, sweet flavor with the added health benefits of Manuka honey.

4. Incorporate the Gelatin:
   Remove the cream mixture from the heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

5. Chill the Mixture:
   Pour the mixture into small ramekins or dessert glasses. Let them cool for 20-30 minutes at room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is fully set.

6. Serve:
   To serve, you can either keep the panna cotta in the ramekins or unmold it onto a plate. Top with fresh berries and mint leaves for an extra pop of flavour.