EAT
Cooking with Karen Crouse: Effortless Crépes
Published On: December 20, 2024
Crépes with berries and chocolate sauce drizzled on top for Karen Crouse article

Crêpes, the delicate, paper-thin French pancakes, are a perfect base for both sweet and savory delights. Their light, tender texture transforms desserts, entrées, and even leftovers into gourmet experiences. Whether prepared fresh or made ahead of time, crêpes are a true culinary delight—like a holiday wish come true!

My secrets are to add a touch of sugar to the batter for perfect caramelization and allow the batter to rest, ensuring your crêpes come out ultra-thin and irresistibly delicate. Add them to your holiday menu this season for a touch of elegance and a stress-free option!

 

Effortless Crépes

Yields 8 servings

 

Equipment Needed

  • Blender (Countertop or Hand)
  • 8 or 9-inch nonstick pan
  • ¼ C measuring cup or ladle
  • Whisk
  • Wide spatula

 

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 ¼ C whole milk (room temperature)
  • 1 C all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3 Tbsp melted butter (cooled)
  • 1/2 tsp cold butter (for the pan)
  • Confectioners sugar (optional for dusting)

 

Filling Suggestions

Sweet: Jams, curds, ice cream, Nutella, pie filling, powdered sugar for topping

Savory: Meats, cheeses, sautéed vegetables, eggs & bacon, smoked salmon, or leftovers

 

Preparation

Add dry ingredients to the blender, then liquids. Blend for 1–2 minutes. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.

Preheat a 9” nonstick skillet over medium heat. Melt 1/2 tsp cold butter, swirl to coat, then reduce heat to medium-low.

Lightly whisk the batter, pour 1/4 cup into the center, and tilt the pan to spread evenly. Cook for 45 seconds per side until golden brown.

Stack cooked crêpes on a plate, covering with a cloth.

 

Folding & Serving

Lay the crêpe flat, add filling on half, fold into a semi-circle, then again into a triangle. Sprinkle dessert crêpes with powdered sugar if desired.

TIP: Crêpes can be made two days ahead. Cool, stack with parchment, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for up to one month.

For more information www.karencrousenapavalley.com
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