Crepes are a wonderfully versatile dish, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a savory meal, depending on the fillings and toppings you choose. This quick and simple recipe will show you how to whip up the most delicious French pancakes in just 10 minutes, without the need for sugar.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter, plus extra for cooking
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: Vanilla extract or spices such as cinnamon for added flavor
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Non-stick skillet or crepe pan
- Spatula
Instructions:
- Make the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk and 1 tablespoon of olive oil or melted butter. If you like a hint of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a dash of cinnamon here.
- Pour the liquid ingredients into the dry ingredients, whisking continuously to create a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Heat the Pan:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to coat the surface.
- Cook the Crepes:
- Pour a small amount of batter into the center of the hot pan. Immediately tilt and swirl the pan to spread the batter evenly across the surface.
- Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until the edges of the crepe begin to look dry and lift from the sides of the pan. Use a spatula to gently flip the crepe and cook for another minute on the other side until golden and slightly crisp.
- Serve:
- Remove the crepe from the pan and place it on a plate. Continue with the remaining batter, adding butter or oil to the pan as needed between crepes.
- Serve the crepes warm. For a savory version, fill them with ingredients like cheese, ham, and spinach. For a dessert, you can fill them with fresh fruit, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Tips for Perfect Crepes:
- Consistency: The batter should be quite thin, similar to heavy cream. If it’s too thick, add a bit more milk to achieve the desired consistency.
- Resting the Batter: If you have time, let the batter rest for about 30 minutes at room temperature before cooking. This helps the flour absorb the liquid and can make the crepes more tender.
- Cooking: Ensure the pan is not too hot as it can cause the crepes to cook too quickly and become difficult to flip.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade crepes! They are a fantastic and quick meal that can be customized to suit any taste, making them perfect for any occasion.
