I picked up an instant Crème Caramel dessert mix from a neighborhood grocery store the other day, instead of bringing home an individual flan like I usually do. Each pre-prepared flan costs about a dollar each, and this package is only $2 and makes four custards, so I just saved myself $2, plus all the plastic containers that just go to waste after one use.

I put the dessert through the test taste and here are my thoughts … but first, the recipe!

Creme Caramel with Caramel Sauce from Dr. Oetker
(Makes 4 servings)

① In a saucepan over medium heat, bring 1-1/2 cup milk to a boil.

② Pour caramel sauce (included in package) into four dessert dishes.

③ Dissolve contents of custard pouch in 1/2 cup cold milk.

④ Whisk custard mix into a saucepan.

⑤ Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Simmer and stir for one minute. Mixture does not thicken.

⑥ Pour carefully into prepared dessert dishes. Chill for 30 minutes. To serve, loosen edge with knife and turn onto dessert plate.

The Verdict:

The Crème Caramel was not bad at all. It’s super sweet and you can actually taste the evaporated milk and eggs (or whatever artificial ingredients they use to mimic the flavors). I ate mine after only refrigerating the custard for an hour and it was still very soft and loose. I would probably let it sit for at least a few hours, or overnight, for a firmer texture. All in all, this was a success and I will definitely make it again!

Update: I had another serving of the flan, and this time, it sat in the refrigerator for about more than six hours. I found that the consistency was still very soft. Don’t get me wrong, it’s silky and delicious this way, but you might be a bit disappointed if you prefer a little “bouncier” texture like I do.

I’m sure the homemade kind made from scratch would taste much better but most recipes that I researched use tons of egg yolks (like seven in some recipes!), condensed milk AND evaporated milk, and I got scared! The packaged version somehow lessens the guilt …although I know it’s only my wishful thinking.