Fast Creme Brulee

Of course you should make this from scratch, but there are days when fast is feasible.

1 (3 ounce) package regular vanilla pudding (not instant)
1 3/4 cups milk
1/2 cup whipping cream or use 1 cup Cool Whip or Dream Whip
1/2 cup lump-free brown sugar

Make pudding with milk as directed on package. Cool a bit, then cover surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin forming. Cool. Whip cream. Fold into pudding. Chill in 9-inch glass pie plate or individual ramekins.

Preheat broiler. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the custard. Place in an ice bath made up of water and ice cubes in a shallow pan. Broil until sugar caramelizes. Watch carefully; it burns easily. Remove from ice bath. Chill.

Don't make too far ahead as brown sugar crust will start to soften and weep.