Basic Crepes

Expert Tips

• Tip 1
  While crepe is the French word for “pancake,” the two are slightly more different than their namesakes suggest. Traditional American pancakes are thicker and fluffier (thanks in part to the addition of baking soda) than their French counterparts. Crepes are delicately thin pastries most often served for breakfast or dessert, with sweet fillings like fresh fruit and whipped cream or Nutella and sprinkles, or on the savoury side with bacon and eggs or ham and cheese.
• Tip 2
  One of the best things about crepes is that you can make them ahead of time: you can make the batter in advance since it keeps well in the refrigerator, and pre-made crepes reheat like a dream (how’s that for an effortless brunch idea?). They’re usually served rolled or folded, but you could even make a crepe cake, also known as gateau mille crepes, out of several crepes stacked on top of each other if you’re feeling ambitious. However you choose to serve them, crepes are a classic dish every home cook should know—they’re one of those dishes that looks fancy, but is actually crazy-easy.
• Tip 3
  At this point, crepes can be wrapped in foil and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, place package of crepes in 300°F. oven for 10 to 15 minutes.