Simple French Crepes

The classic French crepes recipe you need in your life. Perfect for any occasion, they can be served with either sweet or savory toppings.

Crepes must be the very first recipe you learn as a kid in France, and also probably one of the first recipes you learn by heart (together with the yogurt cake – have you heard about it by the way?). School has started again everywhere now (whether you are in France, Sweden or the US), and we clearly feel a back-to-school/September weather, with a few slightly colored leaves showing up here and there. The temperatures are still hot here in Chicago but this back-to-school feeling hit anyway, and I felt like having crepes like kids would have after school.

But wait a minute: my blog is all about recipes with a twist, so why share such a classic recipe with basic ingredients? I’ve got 2 answers here: first of all, every family in France has its own crepes recipe, and there are as many crepe recipes as there are families in France. And then, I’m French, so I figured I should take part in the crepe debate and add my very own crepes recipe with you too. Are you in? Then follow me!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crepes recipe is a timeless classic that offers endless versatility. It’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even dessert. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• A large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• 15 cm/6-inch crepe pan or non-stick frying pan
• Ladle
• Spatula
• Paper towel (for greasing the pan)

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1 pinch of salt
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (50g) melted butter
• 1 Tablespoon (15g) sugar (optional)
• 2 cups (500 ml) milk
• 2 Tablespoons oil for cooking

Instructions

1. Pour flour and salt into a large bowl and make a well in the center. Add the eggs, melted butter, and optional sugar if desired. Whisk vigorously starting from the center, and slowly start to pour in a little milk, mixing as you pour, to keep the batter smooth. Pour in the rest of the milk until it looks smooth. Cover the bowl and let sit for 2 hours.
2. Heat a 15 cm/6-inch crepe pan and grease with oil using a piece of paper towel. Pour in a ladle of batter by tilting the pan in all directions to distribute the batter well. Heat until the surface is cooked, then flip the crepe and cook the other side for about a minute, or until the crepe becomes lightly blonde. Repeat with the remaining batter.
3. Stack the crepes onto a plate and serve with your favorite topping (usually in France: butter and sugar, jam, or melted chocolate).

Tips for Success

• Ensure your batter is smooth and free of lumps before cooking. This might take a few extra minutes of whisking, but it’s worth it.
• Allow the batter to rest for at least 2 hours. This helps the flour absorb the liquid and results in more tender crepes.
• Keep the pan well-oiled but not overly greasy to prevent the crepes from sticking.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Add vanilla extract or a splash of rum for a fragrant twist.
• For savory crepes, consider adding herbs or spices to the batter.
• Use whole wheat flour for a healthier version.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving of crepes provides a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, making it both delicious and satisfying. Adjust your toppings to align with your dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make the batter ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator.

How do I store leftover crepes? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage.

What if I don’t have a crepe pan? A non-stick frying pan works just as well. Just ensure it’s well-greased.

Conclusion

Give this Simple French Crepes recipe a try and bring a touch of France into your kitchen. Whether you prefer them sweet or savory, these crepes are sure to become a staple in your home. We’d love to hear about your experience and any creative toppings you come up with, so don’t forget to share!