What’s better than starting off your morning with fresh crepes? This Easy Made Ahead Crepe Recipe is so simple and the fact that it can be pre-made means you can have savory crepes ready on the table faster! You might think that it doesn’t take that long to whip up some crepe batter, but if you want to make perfect crepes, you need to let the batter rest for at least one hour.
I always have some Bernardin® jars in hand since their jars are a quick and easy way to store leftovers or on-the-go meals like breakfasts, salads and smoothies. I’ll even store this prepared crepe batter in a 250 ml jar for up to 5 days!
Bernardin® jars come in a variety of sizes, are sustainable, and are durable. These jars are perfect for decor, organization around the office or kitchen, DIY projects and drinkware.
What does chilling your crepe batter do?
If you want perfect French crepes, allowing the batter to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to one hour allows the flour to absorb the liquids and fully hydrate. The added bonus of letting the batter rest is the best way to ensure you get thin and delicate crepes that just melt in your mouth.
What are crepes?
Crepes are French-style pancakes, made with only a handful of simple ingredients. French crepes are thin pancakes, with only a few tablespoons of batter being added at a time. Crepes are completely customizable and can be made with savory fillings or sweet crepes are also very popular.
Why you’ll love this French crepe recipe…
- By preparing the batter ahead of time, you can have easy crepes ready in no time! You save at least 30 minutes of chilling time…
- This recipe is a small batch recipe, which means it makes 6 crepes. A great option for 2 people or you can easily double or triple for special occasions or to feed a large family.
- This basic crepe recipe is made by adding all of the ingredients into a blender for a few seconds (until smooth).
- Want to make it in a large mixing bowl instead? Just add all of the ingredients to a large bowl and whisk until well combined!
- No fancy crepe pans are needed, all you need is an 8-inch pan or non-stick skillet.
- These tender crepes only take a few minutes to cook, due to the fact that they are so thin!
- Hosting a party or brunch? Make a crepe bar station with a variety of toppings and fillings!
What you’ll need to make these traditional crepes…
this recipe makes 6 crepes
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup of milk, dairy-free alternatives like almond milk or oat milk also work!
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- 1/2 tbsp of melted butter
- 1 tbsp of sugar
- 1/2 cup of all purpose flour
- pinch of salt
- additional 2 tablespoons of butter for cooking the crepes
How to make the best crepes…
- To make the batter, add the egg, milk, vanilla, melted butter, sugar, flour and a pinch of salt to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
- Transfer the batter to a glass jar and place in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to an hour. If you are making the batter in advance, make ahead and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Place a non-stick pan on medium-high heat. Add a small amount of butter to the bottom of the pan (about 1 tsp). Once melted, add 1/4 cup of batter to the center of the plan.
- Allow the crepe to cook on the first side for 2 minutes. Then using a thin spatula, flip and cook for 1 minute or until it starts to turn golden brown. If you feel like your first crepe cooked too fast, turn down the temperature to medium heat.
- After cooking 2-3 crepes, add a little butter and repeat with the remaining batter.
For best results, serve your tender crepes immediately.
Sweet French Crepe Fillings…
I love enjoying my finished crepes with some fresh berries, whipped cream and a sprinkle of brown sugar. Other popular ways of making sweet crepes is to spread jam, Nutella or add a drizzle of heavy cream.
Savory Crepe Ideas…
My favourite way to serve crepes at bunch is by making savory versions. Yummy savory crepes fillings ideas like soft cheeses, sautéed veggies (like onions, and peppers), cream cheese and even shredded chicken!
Can you freeze crepes?
You sure can! In the event that you have leftovers, roll your crepes and add them to an airtight container with a layer or wax or parchment paper in between. You can also use plastic wrap. Store in the freezer for up to three months.
When ready to reheat, allow them to defrost and reheat on a nonstick skillet for a minute or two!
Christopher is a food and lifestyle expert, recipe developer and the content creator behind May Eighty Five. With over 6 years of creating recipes for your favourite food brands, he also shares tips, tricks and how to’s that he has learnt over the years. Every week, he shares quick, simple and mostly healthy recipes along with some home and entertaining tips. You will find flavorful cocktails, delicious appetizers, tasty mains and some indulgent desserts.
