Blanc Mange

Blanc Mange

A classic Victorian-era molded milk dessert set with gelatin, delicately flavored with cinnamon, lemon, and almonds. This elegant white pudding is chilled until firm and unmolded for serving.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons Unflavored gelatin powder (Modern substitute for isinglass; approximately 3/4 ounce)
  • 0.5 cup Water (For blooming gelatin)
  • 4 cups Whole milk (Use good quality whole milk for richness)
  • 1 stick Cinnamon stick
  • 2 strips Lemon peel (Use a vegetable peeler to remove peel without white pith)
  • 2 tablespoons Blanched almonds, finely ground (Use regular blanched almonds plus 1/4 tsp almond extract as bitter almonds are not readily available)
  • 0.25 teaspoon Almond extract (Substitute for bitter almond flavor)
  • 0.5 cup Granulated sugar (Adjust to taste)

More recipes using Whole milk

Instructions

  1. 1Pour the water into a small saucepan and sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the surface. Let stand for 5 minutes to soften and bloom.
  2. 2Place the saucepan over low heat and warm gently, stirring constantly, until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Do not boil. Remove from heat and let cool to lukewarm.
  3. 3Grind the blanched almonds in a food processor or mortar and pestle until very finely ground, almost to a powder consistency.
  4. 4In a large saucepan, combine the milk, cinnamon stick, lemon peel strips, ground almonds, almond extract, and sugar. Gradually stir in the lukewarm dissolved gelatin mixture.
  5. 5Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Once boiling, reduce heat slightly and continue to boil gently for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring continuously.
  6. 6Remove from heat. Place a fine-mesh strainer or muslin cloth over a large bowl or pitcher. Pour the hot mixture through the strainer to remove the cinnamon stick, lemon peel, and almond solids. Press gently to extract all liquid.
  7. 7Lightly oil or wet your molds with cold water. Carefully pour the strained mixture into individual molds or one large decorative mold.
  8. 8Place the filled molds in a large pan of cold water to help them cool evenly. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or until completely set and firm.
  9. 9To unmold, dip the bottom of each mold briefly in warm water for a few seconds. Run a thin knife around the edge, place a serving plate on top, and invert quickly. The blanc mange should release easily. Serve chilled.

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