Crepes are a delicate, thin French-style pancake that can be filled with sweet or savory ingredients. They are light, versatile, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. This recipe features a creamy, tangy cream cheese filling and juicy, fresh strawberries, making it an irresistible treat.
Whether you are making these for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these crepes are sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Crepes
- 2 cups milk – Provides moisture and helps create a thin, delicate batter.
- 4 eggs – Adds structure and richness to the batter.
- 3 tbsp. butter (melted) – Gives the crepes a soft texture and prevents sticking.
- 1 tbsp. sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness.
- 1 ½ tbsp. vanilla extract – Enhances flavor with a sweet, aromatic touch.
- 1/8 tsp. salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 1 ½ cups flour – Provides structure and thickness to the crepes.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened – Creates a rich and creamy base.
- 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the filling while keeping it smooth.
- 1 tbsp. lemon juice – Adds brightness and enhances the tanginess of the filling.
- ¾ tsp. vanilla extract – Infuses a subtle vanilla flavor.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream – Makes the filling light and fluffy.
- 4 tbsp. soft sugar – Adds sweetness to the whipped cream.
For the Strawberry Topping
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced – Provides a fresh, juicy contrast to the creamy filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crepe Batter
- In a blender, combine the milk, eggs, melted butter, sugar, vanilla, salt, and flour.
- Blend for 15-20 seconds until the batter is completely smooth.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to allow the flour to fully absorb the liquid, resulting in tender crepes.
Step 2: Cook the Crepes
- Heat a nonstick 8-10 inch pan over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or nonstick spray.
- Pour ¼ cup of batter into the pan and immediately tilt and rotate the pan to spread the batter into a thin, even layer.
- Cook for about 1-2 minutes, until the edges begin to lift and the top looks dry.
- Carefully flip the crepe using a thin spatula and cook for another 30-60 seconds on the other side.
- Transfer the cooked crepe to a plate and repeat with the remaining batter, stacking crepes with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, then beat again until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with soft sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, creating a light and fluffy filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Crepes
- Take one crepe and spread a generous amount of cream cheese filling on one side.
- Add a handful of sliced strawberries over the filling.
- Fold the crepe in half or roll it up to enclose the filling.
- Repeat with the remaining crepes and filling.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Crepes
- Consistency of Batter – The batter should be smooth and slightly runny. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out.
- Resting the Batter – Refrigerating the batter for at least 1 hour helps create tender crepes by allowing the flour to fully absorb the liquid.
- Cooking Temperature – Medium heat ensures that the crepes cook evenly without burning.
- Flipping the Crepes – Use a thin spatula to gently lift the edges before flipping. If it moves easily in the pan, it’s ready to flip.
Substitutions and Variations
Dairy-Free Option
- Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk.
- Replace butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative.
- Use vegan cream cheese and coconut whipped cream for the filling.
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Crepes – Add 2 tbsp. cocoa powder to the batter for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Berry Medley Filling – Mix strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a variety of flavors.
- Nutella Crepes – Spread Nutella on the crepe before adding the cream cheese filling and strawberries.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Presentation – Dust crepes with powdered sugar and top with extra sliced strawberries.
- Drizzled with Sauce – Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup, caramel, or honey for extra sweetness.
- With Ice Cream – Serve warm crepes with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream.
FAQs
1. Can I make crepe batter ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Stir it before using.
2. How do I store leftover crepes?
- Refrigerator: Stack crepes with parchment paper between each one and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Place parchment paper between crepes, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
3. Can I reheat crepes?
Yes! To reheat:
- Microwave: Warm in 15-second intervals until heated.
- Stovetop: Heat in a dry skillet over low heat for a few seconds on each side.
4. How long can I store the cream cheese filling?
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir before using.
- Freezer: While not ideal, it can be frozen for up to 1 month. Whip again after thawing to restore texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 16g
- Sugar: 20g
Conclusion
This homemade crepe recipe with cream cheese filling and strawberries is a luxurious, yet simple dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The combination of soft, delicate crepes, sweet and tangy cream cheese filling, and juicy strawberries creates a dish that is both elegant and delicious.
With easy-to-follow steps and helpful cooking tips, you can master the art of making perfect crepes every time. Whether you’re serving them fresh or making a batch for later, these crepes are sure to delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends.
Try them today and enjoy a light, creamy, and fruit-filled treat!