Creme Caramel in a Jar | Gu Banoffee | Bonne Maman Yaourt

The grocery stores in Paris were insane. Every single aisle was packed with the most delicious-looking food...it was very difficult to resist buying one of everything. 


Our favorite items to ogle were the refrigerated desserts usually be found near the yogurt/dairy products. Where you would normally find a meager selection of Jell-o and pudding cups in the U.S., we found an extensive selection of mousses, pot de creme, creme caramel, flan, creme brulee, etc. We couldn't resist trying:


Creme Caramel
We don't remember the brand, but this adorable glass jar held a much better pre-made grocery store creme caramel than many of the pricey restaurant versions we'd tried at home.

Gu Banoffee
We couldn't quite tell what this was just by looking at the package, but we could tell it would be delish. Inside were layers of buttery crust, chocolate ganache, creamy filling, banana and caramel. It was over-the-top rich and sweet. 

Bonne Maman Yaourt
Amid all the indulgences, we made an attempt at being healthy. Little did we know, this yogurt is also delicious. It was smooth and silky with a chunky, not-too-sweet berry layer on the bottom...and only 2% milkfat!

Sometimes we wish we could find these delicious desserts more easily at home. But, actually, it's a good thing we can't...because it would be devastating for our waistlines. 

Laduree

We really didn't get what all the fuss over macarons is all about. Sure, they're cute and come in fun colors, but they also tend to be overly sweet and a bit dusty.


Thank goodness Laduree gave us a little context.

The patisserie is like a jewelry store -- elegant, with beautiful displays. Choosing macarons is like picking out little gems...and these babies practically cost as much, too!

But once you take a bite, you understand what the macaron is all about -- light yet chewy, and bursting with flavor.

Our faves were the cassis and salted caramel. The tartness and saltiness, respectively, tempered the sweetness of the macaron so well.


Tip: Even though it may be difficult to refrain from inhaling every single macaron as soon as the box lands in your hands, they only keep for a few days. So, if you want to bring some home, buy them on your last day (or at the airport - CDG will have them).