How to make Dessert Crepes

When I see packaged crepes for sale in the store I always wonder why anyone would buy them when they are so easy to make. Basically, if you can make a pancake, then you can make a crepe. These dessert crepes are a much loved treat in my family. This recipe is for about 18 dessert crepes.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour, sifted
• 5 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar plus more for sprinkling on finished crepes
• 3 tablespoons orange liqueur, rum, brandy or orange juice, or any combination of the 3 (for my kids I just use OJ)
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup milk
• 3/4 cup water
• pinch of salt

1. How's this for easy? Put all the ingredients in a blender and whirl at top speed for 1 minute.
   
   HINT: for best results, mix the batter a few hours before, or the night before, you plan to cook the crepes. According to my hero Julia Child, this allows the flour in the batter to absorb the liquid and results in a more delicate tasting crepe. Just leave the batter in the blender pitcher so you can give it a quick whirl when you are ready to cook.

2. Use 1 or 2 non-stick skillets and heat over medium heat. Pour about 3 tablespoons to 1/4 cup batter into the pan(s). It should sizzle if the pan is warm enough. Immediately pick up the pan and begin swirling the batter around to coat the bottom of the pan. If the batter does not swirl easily in the pan add a little more water and blend for a few seconds.

3. Cook each crepe until the top is bubbly and the edges start to brown. Flip the crepe either using the one-handed "chef's flip" or a thin spatula, cook for about 20 seconds on the other side, then turn out onto a plate. Continue until all your batter is used.

4. After you flip each crepe onto the plate, sprinkle with about half a teaspoon granulated sugar, roll up like a cigar and serve. They can be eaten warm or cold.

Tips & Warnings

• There's something about that first crepe. It never comes out quite right because maybe the pan wasn't hot enough, etc. Use it to taste your crepe and make sure the you like the flavoring, or give it to the dog. :)
• Of course you can fill your finished crepes with a wide range of ingredients (strawberries, chocolate, ice cream, whipped cream, etc.) and make a very fancy dessert with them. I love them in the simple way just sprinkled with sugar, but you can let your creativity run wild and serve your family and guests some dessert crepes they will go crazy for.
• For savory recipes, just omit the sugar and flavorings (rum, brandy, juice) and you can make basic crepes which can be stuffed with meats, seafood, vegetables, etc. just like you see in fine restaurants.

[KaraDiablo]

on 10/9/2009 Oh this crepe recipe sounds so very delicious.

[georgedm]

on 9/27/2009 Sounds so easy. Thanks for a great recipe for dessert crepes.

[jaredbangerter]

on 9/27/2009 I've only had these once in my life, but they are AMAZING. This recipe sounds great. 5* and rec

[sonni57]

on 9/23/2009 Thanks for the good crepes recipe.