Cherry & Dark Chocolate Panna Cotta (Zone Diet)
A creamy, high-protein panna cotta layered with juicy cherries and dark chocolate. This refreshing dessert is perfectly balanced for the Zone Diet and makes an ideal make-ahead treat.
Ingredients (8 Zone Blocks)
Protein
24 g whey protein isolate
660 ml low-fat milk (1.5%)
20 g gelatin (about 2 packets)
Carbohydrates
40 fresh cherries (about 560 g), pitted
Fats
40 g dark chocolate, finely chopped
Sweetener
Vanilla extract or vanilla powder
Erythritol & stevia blend, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cherries
Wash and pit the cherries.
Divide them into two equal portions:
Blend one half into a smooth purée.
Leave the other half whole.
2. Prepare the Milk Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together:
Milk
Whey protein
Vanilla
Sweetener
Divide the mixture into two equal portions.
3. Make the Chocolate Layer
Add the chopped dark chocolate to one half of the milk mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
Prepare half of the gelatin according to the package instructions:
Bloom it in cold water.
Melt gently over a double boiler or in the microwave without boiling.
Stir it into the chocolate mixture.
Arrange the whole cherries in the bottom of your serving dish or mold.
Pour the chocolate mixture over the cherries.
Refrigerate for 2–3 hours, or until completely set.
4. Make the Cherry Layer
Stir the blended cherry purée into the remaining milk mixture.
Prepare the remaining gelatin in the same way and whisk it into the cherry mixture.
Pour this layer over the chilled chocolate layer.
5. Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set.
Serving
Slice into 4 equal portions.
Entire dessert: 8 Zone Blocks
1 serving (¼ of the dessert): 2 Zone Blocks
Perfect as a refreshing afternoon snack or healthy dessert.
Notes
Fresh or frozen cherries can be used.
For the best texture, allow the panna cotta to chill overnight.
Garnish with fresh cherries and a few dark chocolate shavings before serving.
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
