- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sweet crepes, optional)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for sweet crepes, optional)
- Butter or oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a blender or mixing bowl, combine the flour, eggs, milk, melted butter, sugar (if making sweet crepes), salt, and vanilla extract (if making sweet crepes). Blend or whisk until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. If time allows, let the batter rest for about 30 minutes to an hour; this allows any bubbles to settle and the flour to fully hydrate, resulting in a smoother, more tender crepe.
2. Heat the Pan:
Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium-high heat. You can lightly grease the pan with a small amount of butter or oil, but be sure to wipe off any excess with a paper towel.
3. Pour and Swirl:
Pour a small amount of the crepe batter into the hot pan, about 1/4 to 1/3 cup, depending on the size of your pan. Immediately lift the pan off the heat and tilt it in a circular motion, swirling the batter to cover the bottom evenly. The goal is to create a thin, even layer.
4. Cook the Crepe:
Cook the crepe for about 1-2 minutes, or until the edges start to lift and the bottom is lightly golden. You can use a spatula to gently check the underside.
5. Flip and Cook the Other Side:
Using a spatula, carefully flip the crepe over and cook the other side for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until it’s lightly browned. The second side typically cooks faster than the first.
6. Remove and Repeat:
Remove the crepe from the pan and place it on a plate. You can stack the cooked crepes on top of each other as they won’t stick. Repeat the process with the remaining batter, adding a little more butter or oil to the pan as needed to prevent sticking.
7. Serve:
Fill your crepes with your favorite sweet or savory fillings. Common sweet fillings include Nutella, fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice. For savory options, consider ham and cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach and feta. Fold, roll, or layer your fillings in the center of the crepe, then enjoy!
Homemade crepes are a versatile and delicious treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Feel free to get creative with your fillings and toppings!