French · Free recipe
Crepes
Thin, tender French pancakes that can be filled with sweet or savory toppings, from lemon and sugar to ham and cheese. Once you get the swirl down, they come together effortlessly.
Step 1
In a blender or a large bowl, combine the 1 cup flour, 2 eggs, 1 1/4 cups milk, 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and the vanilla.
Step 2
Blend or whisk until completely smooth with no lumps, about 30 seconds. The batter should be thin, like heavy cream. If it seems thick, whisk in a splash more milk.
Step 3
Let the batter rest for 15 to 30 minutes at room temperature. This relaxes the flour so the crepes turn out tender rather than rubbery.
Step 4
Set a nonstick 8 or 9 inch skillet over medium heat. Lightly rub the surface with a little butter using a folded paper towel.
Step 5
Lift the pan off the heat and pour in a scant 1/4 cup of batter while immediately tilting and swirling the pan in a circle so the batter coats the bottom in a thin, even layer.
Step 6
Set the pan back on the heat and cook for about 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, until the edges look dry and lacy and lift easily, and the underside is speckled golden.
Step 7
Slide a thin spatula under the edge, then gently flip the crepe. Cook the second side for just 30 seconds; it will have light golden spots.
Step 8
Slide the crepe onto a plate. Repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the finished crepes; they will not stick to each other.
Step 9
Wipe the pan with a touch more butter every 2 or 3 crepes to keep them from sticking.
Step 10
If a crepe tears or the first one comes out badly, do not worry; the first crepe is often a test and the rest will improve as the pan settles into the right heat.
Step 11
To serve sweet, spread with jam, chocolate spread, or a squeeze of lemon and sprinkle of sugar, then fold into quarters. Serve warm.
Tips from the test kitchen
- Resting the batter is the secret to soft, tender crepes.
- Swirl the pan off the heat so the batter spreads before it sets.
- The first crepe rarely comes out perfect; keep going.
