Crepes

Crepes are very thin pancakes that come from France. They are so thin that they are almost see-through. Crepes can be filled with sweet ingredients like Nutella, fruit, and whipped cream, or savory fillings like cheese, ham, and eggs. In France, crepe stands are as common as hot dog carts are in New York City.

How Crepes Are Made

Crepe batter is very thin and runny, made from flour, eggs, milk, and a little butter. A small amount of batter is poured onto a hot, flat griddle and quickly spread into a thin circle. The crepe cooks for just about a minute on each side. Making a perfect crepe takes practice because the batter must be spread thin and evenly. The finished crepe is folded or rolled around the filling.

Sweet and Savory Crepes

Sweet crepes are the most popular and can be filled with almost anything. Nutella and banana is a favorite combination. Strawberries with whipped cream is another classic. Lemon juice and sugar is a simple but delicious filling. Savory crepes, called galettes in parts of France, are often made with buckwheat flour and filled with cheese, ham, and a fried egg.

Fun Facts

• In France, February 2 is called La Chandeleur, or Crepe Day, when everyone makes crepes.
• The word crepe comes from a Latin word meaning "curled."
• A skilled crepe maker can make a crepe in less than two minutes.

Did You Know?

On Crepe Day in France, there is a tradition of holding a coin in one hand and flipping a crepe with the other to bring good luck for the year!