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Decadent French Chocolate Crepes Recipe: Bake Like a Professional Chef

French Chocolate Crepes

Delicate, thin, and decadently chocolatey, these French chocolate crêpes make a delightful breakfast, dessert, or sweet treat any time of day. Fill them with your favorite ingredients or enjoy them plain!

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Crêpes:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for the pan)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Fillings and Toppings:

  • Nutella or chocolate spread
  • Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
  • Whipped cream
  • Banana slices
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • Chocolate sauce or melted chocolate
  • Crushed nuts (hazelnuts, almonds, or walnuts)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter:

    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
    • In another bowl, whisk milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until combined.
    • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
    • Let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature (or refrigerate for up to 2 hours). This allows the flour to fully absorb the liquids, resulting in tender crêpes.
  2. Cook the Crêpes:

    • Heat a nonstick skillet or crêpe pan over medium heat and lightly grease with butter.
    • Pour about ¼ cup of batter into the pan, swirling to evenly coat the bottom with a thin layer.
    • Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges begin to lift and the bottom is set.
    • Flip gently with a spatula and cook the other side for another 30 seconds to 1 minute.
    • Transfer to a plate and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining batter.
  3. Assemble and Serve:

    • Spread desired fillings (like Nutella or fresh fruit) onto each crêpe.
    • Fold into quarters, roll, or fold into halves.
    • Top with powdered sugar, whipped cream, berries, or drizzle with chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat.

Notes

  1. Resting the Batter:

    • Resting the batter is essential for smooth, tender crêpes. If short on time, you can skip it, but resting for at least 30 minutes yields the best texture.
  2. Consistency of the Batter:

    • The batter should be thin, like heavy cream. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
  3. Cooking Tips:

    • Use a nonstick skillet or a dedicated crêpe pan for best results.
    • Keep the heat medium to prevent burning while allowing the crêpes to cook through.
    • Swirl the batter immediately after pouring to get even, thin layers.
  4. Make-Ahead & Storage:

    • Crêpes can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
    • To freeze, stack crêpes with parchment paper between each one and place in a ziplock bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in a warm skillet.
  5. Filling Ideas:

    • Classic: Nutella with banana slices or strawberries.
    • Elegant: Mascarpone with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.
    • Savory Option: Omit cocoa powder and sugar from the batter for savory fillings like ham, cheese, or sautéed vegetables.
  6. Dairy-Free Option:

    • Substitute almond milk or oat milk for whole milk. Use plant-based butter for cooking.
  7. Serving Suggestions:

    • Serve with a cup of espresso for a classic French touch or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Nutrition

Keywords: French Chocolate Crepes