Sunday mornings at my house mean one thing: crepes. There's something about those thin, delicate pancakes that makes breakfast feel special. This Crepe Recipe is simple, uses ingredients you already have, and creates the softest, most perfect crepes every time.
My daughter loves filling hers with Nutella, while my husband goes for fresh berries and cream. Once you get the hang of swirling the batter in the pan, you'll make these on repeat.
Why You'll Love This Crepe Recipe
This is the best crepe recipe because it's foolproof and incredibly versatile. You get thin, tender crepes that are perfect for sweet or savory fillings. The batter comes together in minutes, and you can make a whole stack in under half an hour.
My sister tried this easy crepe recipe and said it's better than any French cafe she's been to. Whether you want a simple breakfast or an impressive dessert, homemade crepes deliver every time. Plus, kids absolutely love helping pour and swirl the batter.
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What You'll Need
Just a handful of basic ingredients make the most delicious French crepes. Everything is pantry-friendly, and the batter is so easy to whisk together.
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons melted butter, plus more for the pan
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sweet crepes)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for sweet crepes)
Optional Extras
You can skip the sugar if you're making savory stuffed crepes and add a pinch of herbs instead. Some people like adding a splash of liqueur for dessert crepes, or swapping half the flour for buckwheat flour for a nutty flavor. Fresh berries, whipped cream, Nutella, or caramel sauce make perfect toppings.
Everything you need to make this crepe recipe is in the card.
How to Make Crepe Recipe
Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, milk, water, melted butter, sugar, and salt until completely smooth. The batter should be thin and pourable, like heavy cream. If you have lumps, keep whisking or use a blender for the smoothest crepe batter recipe. Let it rest for 10 minutes so the flour hydrates fully.
Heat the Pan
Place a nonstick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat and lightly brush it with butter. You want the pan hot enough that a drop of batter sizzles immediately but doesn't burn. My mom taught me this trick: the first crepe is always a test run to get the temperature just right.
Pour and Swirl
Pour about ¼ cup of batter into the center of the pan, then immediately tilt and swirl the pan in a circular motion so the batter spreads thin and covers the entire bottom. Work quickly because the batter sets fast. This simple French crepe recipe technique takes practice, but you'll get it after the first couple tries.
Q: Can I make crepe batter ahead of time?
Yes! This classic French crepes batter can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored covered in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using since the flour may settle.
Cook Until Golden
Let the crepe cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until the edges start to lift and the bottom is lightly golden. Use a thin spatula to gently flip it over and cook the other side for another 30 seconds. The second side cooks much faster, so keep an eye on it. Stack the finished crepes on a plate.
Fill and Serve
Once you've cooked all your homemade crepes, fill them with whatever your heart desires. Fold them into quarters, roll them up, or leave them flat with toppings spread on top. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with caramel, or pile on fresh fruit. Serve warm and watch everyone's faces light up.
Aliana's Top Tip
The secret to perfect homemade crepes recipe is getting the batter consistency right.
It should be thin enough to coat the pan in a single swirl but not so watery that it doesn't hold together.
If your batter seems too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it flows easily.
Also, don't skip letting the batter rest because it makes the crepes more tender.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
You can easily make this easy crepe recipe blender style by blending all ingredients together for 30 seconds. Swap regular milk for almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. For savory crepe filling ideas, skip the sugar and vanilla, then stuff with ham, cheese, spinach, or mushrooms. Add cocoa powder to the batter for chocolate crepes.
Follow Aliana on Pinterest →Storage & Reheating Instructions
Keep leftover crepes stacked with parchment paper between each one in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a dry pan over low heat for about 30 seconds per side, or microwave for 15 seconds.
What to Serve With Crepe Recipe
These dessert crepes pair beautifully with fresh berries, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or maple syrup. For breakfast, serve them alongside scrambled eggs or bacon. My family loves a simple crepe breakfast with powdered sugar and lemon juice. You can also serve them as part of a brunch spread with fresh fruit salad and coffee.
FAQs About Crepe Recipe
What's the difference between crepes and pancakes?
Crepes are much thinner and don't have any leavening agents like baking powder. Pancakes are thick and fluffy, while crepes are delicate and meant to be filled or folded. Both are delicious but totally different textures.
Why are my crepes tearing?
Your batter might be too thin, or the pan might not be hot enough. Make sure the crepe is fully cooked on the first side before flipping, and use a thin spatula to lift gently from the edges.
Can I make crepes without a crepe pan?
Absolutely! Any nonstick skillet works perfectly. An 8 to 10 inch pan is ideal. The key is having a flat, smooth surface so the batter spreads evenly.
What are the best crepe topping ideas?
The options are endless. Try Nutella and bananas, fresh berries with whipped cream, caramel and sea salt, lemon and sugar, or savory options like ham and cheese. Get creative with your crepe filling ideas.
More Recipes You'll Love
If you're craving more easy breakfast ideas, my fluffy pancakes are a family favorite and ready in 15 minutes. For another French-inspired treat, try my homemade croissants or explore more breakfast recipes in my collection. You'll find this recipe and many others in my Breakfast category, where morning meals shine.
Tried this recipe? Tag me on Pinterest @AlianaRecipes - I'd love to see your twist on it!
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Pairing
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