Crepes are incredibly thin, delicate pancakes that can be filled or topped with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients. This versatile recipe from Sally’s Baking Addiction delivers perfect crepes that are light, tender, and easy to make with simple pantry staples. Whether you want a quick breakfast, a fancy brunch, or a simple dessert, these crepes come together quickly and taste delicious. The batter requires just a few ingredients like flour, eggs, milk, and a little melted butter. With just a bit of practice, you’ll be flipping crepes like a pro, ready to impress family or friends. Crepes are also a fantastic blank canvas — you can fill them with fresh fruit, Nutella, savory cheese, or even ham and eggs. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to everyday meals without too much fuss. It’s also great for college students or busy families searching for quick and satisfying back-to-school recipes.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, plus more for the pan
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for sweet crepes)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for sweet crepes)

Directions

• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and eggs until smooth.
• Gradually add water and milk while whisking to create a thin batter without lumps.
• Stir in salt, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla if using.
• Let the batter rest for about 30 minutes to an hour to improve texture.
• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly brush with butter.
• Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the skillet, tilting to spread evenly in a thin layer.
• Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until edges lift and the bottom is lightly golden.
• Flip and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• Repeat with remaining batter, stacking crepes with parchment paper between them to prevent sticking.
• Serve warm with your choice of fillings or toppings.

Nutrients

• Calories: approximately 110 per crepe (without fillings)
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: 1g (varies if sugar added)
• Fiber: 0.5g

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This crepe recipe is a standout because it combines simplicity with versatility. The batter is smooth and thin, which creates the signature delicate texture that sets crepes apart from traditional pancakes. Unlike thick and fluffy pancakes, crepes are wafer-thin and foldable, making them ideal for wrapping around a variety of fillings. The recipe is quick to prepare, with minimal ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. The optional resting time for the batter helps develop a more tender texture, but if you’re in a hurry, you can cook them right away and still get great results. Because it uses both milk and water, the crepes have a perfect balance of richness and lightness. They’re great for sweet or savory dishes, making this recipe a go-to for many occasions, from a casual weekday breakfast to a special dessert. This flexibility is what makes the recipe so popular and widely loved.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

The ingredients in this recipe are straightforward but each plays an important role. Flour provides the structure needed for the thin batter to hold together. Using all-purpose flour keeps the crepes tender but you can substitute gluten-free flour blends for those with dietary restrictions. Eggs add richness and help bind the batter, contributing to the elasticity that makes flipping easier. The combination of milk and water creates a batter that is not too heavy, ensuring the crepes remain light and flexible rather than thick and doughy. Melted butter adds flavor and moisture, preventing the crepes from sticking to the pan while adding a slight richness. Salt enhances the overall flavor, balancing sweetness when sugar and vanilla are added for sweet crepes. Overall, the ingredients are nutritious and simple, making this recipe a wholesome option for any meal.

Cooking Tips

Achieving perfect crepes requires a few helpful techniques. First, allow the batter to rest for at least 30 minutes if you can. This resting time allows the flour to fully hydrate, which improves the texture and reduces the chance of tears when flipping. Use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned crepe pan to ensure easy release. Preheat the pan thoroughly before adding batter, then keep the heat medium-low so the crepes cook evenly without burning. Pour just enough batter to coat the surface thinly; too much batter will create thick pancakes instead of crepes. Tilt the pan in a circular motion immediately after pouring the batter to spread it evenly. Use a thin spatula to flip the crepe gently once the edges start to lift and the bottom is golden. If the crepes stick, add a little more butter to the pan. Stack finished crepes separated by parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if the first few aren’t flawless.

Serving Suggestions

Crepes are incredibly versatile and can be served in countless ways. For a classic sweet treat, fill them with fresh berries, whipped cream, Nutella, or a drizzle of maple syrup. Lemon juice and powdered sugar is a simple but timeless combination. Savory options include ham and cheese, sautéed mushrooms and spinach, smoked salmon with cream cheese, or eggs with herbs. Crepes also make excellent wraps for a light lunch or dinner, accommodating a variety of fillings from grilled veggies to chicken or tofu. For a college student, crepes can be made ahead of time and quickly reheated, making them a convenient option for busy mornings or after-class snacks. Pair crepes with a side of fruit salad or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. You can also fold crepes into triangles or roll them up for easy, portable bites.

Conclusion

This crepe recipe offers a perfect foundation for anyone looking to master the art of this delicate French staple. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it provides a quick and delicious way to elevate your breakfast, brunch, or dessert routine. The balance of flavors and textures in the batter ensures each crepe is light, tender, and flexible enough to hold any filling or topping you desire. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, crepes bring elegance and fun to the table, suitable for casual family meals or more sophisticated occasions. This recipe is also ideal for college students or busy individuals because it’s fast, flexible, and easy to customize, making it a wonderful addition to any back-to-school meal plan. The joy of creating and sharing crepes can become a new favorite tradition that turns ordinary days into memorable ones. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the satisfying experience of flipping and filling your own homemade crepes.