Fluffy crepes in two ways

Crepes, those thin, delicate pancakes with a French flair, have captured the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts worldwide. In my family, we always make them for a quick dessert. And recently, we started making this recipe for fluffy crepes in two ways – simple and with cocoa batter. These versatile treats offer a canvas for both sweet and savory creations. But in our home, it is always sweet. We also created a chocolate cream that we serve in the crepes, and later use as a sweet spread. Let’s explore why crepes are so beloved, how easy they are to make, and the science behind their delightful texture.

Why crepes are amazing

First and foremost, let’s talk about flavor. Crepes have a subtle, slightly sweet taste that pairs beautifully with a variety of fillings. This includes classic Nutella and banana, as well as savory combinations like spinach and feta. Their thinness allows the filling to shine, creating a harmonious balance of flavors with each bite.

But it’s not just about taste; crepes also offer a delightful texture that sets them apart from other similar culinary creations, such as pancakes. Their thin, delicate nature creates a satisfying contrast between the soft interior and slightly crispy edges. This texture is achieved through the careful balance of ingredients. But also through the cooking technique, which we’ll delve into shortly.

Additionally, crepes are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy breakfast, a light lunch, or an elegant dessert (always our choice), crepes can adapt to suit any occasion. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings and fillings, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike.

The magic of fluffy crepes in two ways

One of the best things about crepes is how simple they are to make. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch of crepe batter in no time. And as we continue our parallel with pancakes, which require leavening agents like baking powder, crepes rely on eggs and the technique of spreading the batter thinly in the pan to achieve their signature texture.

Speaking of technique, let’s talk about the art of cooking crepes. Or at least what we learned until now on our amateur cooking adventure. The key to success lies in using the right pan and mastering the swirling motion to spread the batter evenly. A non-stick skillet or crepe pan is ideal for ensuring that your crepes cook evenly. But it also helps them release easily from the pan. As for the swirling motion, it may take a bit of practice to get the hang of it. We tried it a few times, and both me and my husband got the hang of it in a few tries.

The science behind the perfect crepe

Now, let’s get into the science behind crepes. At its core, crepe batter is a simple mixture of a small number of ingredients. The flour provides structure, while the eggs add richness and help bind the ingredients together. The milk adds moisture and contributes to the tender texture, while the oil helps prevent sticking.

When the batter hits the hot pan, the proteins in the eggs and flour coagulate, forming the structure of the crepe. Meanwhile, the moisture in the batter turns to steam, helping to puff up the crepe slightly and create air pockets. As the crepe cooks, the sugars in the batter caramelize, giving the crepe its characteristic golden brown color and delicious flavor. Be mindful that the batter sticks to the pan really fast, so thin it out or swirl it as fast as you can.

Fluffy crepes in two ways are a culinary delight that deserves a place in every home cook’s repertoire. With their delicious flavor, they are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So why not give them a try?

Enough ‘splaining! Get your ingredients ready and let’s make some delicious fluffy crepes in two ways!

Short video with the recipe:

If you’d like to test out other fast desserts that come together in under 20 minutes, I would recommend: semolina puffing with cocoa powder or coconut balls with just 4 ingredients.