Simple French crepes are versatile and can be served with a variety of fillings, from sweet to savory. Here’s a basic recipe for making delicious, thin crepes:
Simple French Crepes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (plus extra for cooking)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for sweet crepes)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt (and sugar, if using).
- In another bowl, beat the eggs. Add the milk and melted butter to the eggs and mix well.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. The batter should be smooth and slightly runny.
- Rest the Batter:
- Let the batter rest for about 30 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flour to fully absorb the liquid and helps achieve a tender texture.
- Cook the Crepes:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat. Lightly brush with a small amount of melted butter.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the center of the skillet. Immediately tilt and swirl the pan to spread the batter evenly into a thin layer.
- Cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until the edges start to lift and the bottom is lightly golden brown. Flip the crepe and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute on the other side.
- Transfer the cooked crepe to a plate and keep warm. Repeat with the remaining batter, brushing the skillet with butter as needed.
- Serve:
- Fill or top the crepes with your desired fillings or toppings. Popular options include:
- Sweet: Nutella, fresh fruit, whipped cream, jam, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
- Savory: Ham, cheese, mushrooms, spinach, or eggs.
Tips:
- Batter Consistency: If the batter is too thick, add a little more milk to achieve the right consistency. It should be pourable but not too runny.
- Non-Stick Pan: Using a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned crepe pan helps prevent sticking and makes flipping easier.
- Resting the Batter: Allowing the batter to rest is key to getting thin, tender crepes.
Enjoy making and serving these simple French crepes, whether you’re having a leisurely breakfast, a delightful brunch, or a fun dessert!
