THIS CAFE LIFE

Panna Cotta with Blood Orange Curd

Name: Mussels Dijonnaise
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 lbs fresh mussels, scrubbed and debearded; 2 shallots, finely chopped; 2 tbsp butter; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; Salt and pepper to taste; Crusty bread, for serving

Silky vanilla panna cotta with a delicate, just-set texture, finished with bright blood orange curd. A classic Italian dessert made with simple technique, gentle heat, and elegant restraint—perfect for make-ahead entertaining or a refined finish to a family meal.

Prep Time:

10 Minutes

Cook Time:

20 Minutes

Yield:

Serves 4

Ingredients

1/2 C. Half-and-half

1 Envelope unflavored gelatin (1/4 ounce)

2 Cups heavy cream

1 Vanilla bean

6 T. White sugar

Tools we reach for →

Fine-Mesh Sieve

For panna cotta, texture is everything. A fine-mesh sieve removes any undissolved gelatin, stray vanilla fibers, or air bubbles, ensuring a perfectly smooth, restaurant-quality finish. We use it every time for custards, curds, and sauces where silkiness matters.

Glass Ramekins or Small Dessert Glasses

Clear glass vessels let the panna cotta speak for itself—clean lines, soft set, and an elegant presentation. They also chill evenly and release easily if you choose to unmold, making them ideal for both casual dinners and more refined desserts.

Step 1 — Bloom the Gelatin

Pour the half-and-half into a medium saucepan. Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the surface and let stand for 5 minutes to bloom.

Step 2 — Warm the Base

Place the saucepan over low heat and gently stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved. Do not allow the mixture to simmer or boil.

Stir in the heavy cream.

Step 3 — Infuse the Vanilla

Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds with the back of a knife.

Add the vanilla seeds, vanilla pod, and sugar to the cream mixture. Stir over low heat until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is lightly warmed and fragrant.

Step 4 — Strain and Pour

Remove the vanilla pod.

For the smoothest texture, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pouring vessel.

Divide the cream mixture evenly among serving glasses or molds.

Step 5 — Chill and Set

Let the panna cotta cool slightly at room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator.

Chill for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.

Step 6 — Serve

Serve directly in the glasses or gently invert onto plates.

Finish with Blood Orange Curd just before serving.

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More Gluten-Free Desserts We Love

If gluten-free baking is part of your kitchen rhythm, you’ll find desserts here that focus on texture, balance, and classic flavor — recipes designed to feel timeless rather than adapted. Explore a few of our favorites:

• Spiced Ginger Cake (GF) — aromatic with a tender crumb and bourbon cream

• Pots de Creme au Chocolate (GF) — rich, smooth, and naturally gluten-free

• Port Wine Poached Pears (GF) — exotic flavors, equally brilliant in salads

• Rustic Apple Crostata (GF) — seasonal fruit with almonds

Individually distinctive yet cohesive as a collection, these gluten-free desserts emphasize balance, texture, and flavor — recipes meant for both everyday moments and easy entertaining.

RETURN TO RECIPES

THIS CAFE LIFE

Panna Cotta with Blood Orange Curd

Ingredients

Create your Café at Home

More Gluten-Free Desserts We Love

Preparation