We’ve always adored buttermilk crepes for their light, airy texture and that irresistible tangy bite. Originating from France where crepes are a beloved staple, we’ve given this classic a fresh spin by swapping in buttermilk for extra fluffiness and flavor—making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat.
In our kitchen, this recipe brings simple ingredients together to create something truly special. Whether you’re a crepe novice or a pro, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up a batch that impresses everyone at the table.
Ingredients
We gather simple, high-quality ingredients to create our buttermilk crepes recipe, ensuring a light and tangy batter that’s perfect for any skill level. Our selection focuses on fresh components that enhance the French-inspired fluffiness while keeping preparation straightforward.
Batter Ingredients
For the heart of our buttermilk crepes, we start with the liquids and follow with dry elements to ensure even mixing. Here’s the complete list, ordered by use in the batter preparation:
- 1 cup buttermilk: Use full-fat for maximum tang and creaminess; chill it beforehand to keep the batter cool.
- 2 large eggs: Fresh eggs at room temperature for better incorporation and a smoother texture.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Sifted to avoid lumps and promote a silky consistency.
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter: Plus extra for greasing the pan; it adds richness and prevents sticking.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: For a subtle sweetness that balances the buttermilk’s acidity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor without overpowering the natural taste of our buttermilk crepes.
- *1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)*: Adds a hint of warmth if you want to elevate the aroma.
Optional Toppings
- Fresh fruits: Such as sliced strawberries or bananas for a juicy, natural sweetness.
- Whipped cream: Homemade or store-bought; dollop it on for a creamy contrast.
- Maple syrup: Drizzle generously for a classic, sticky finish.
- Nutella or chocolate sauce: Spread or pour for a decadent, indulgent option.
- Powdered sugar: Dust lightly for a simple, elegant presentation.
- Nuts or seeds: Like chopped almonds or chia seeds to add crunch and nutrition.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our buttermilk crepes smoothly and achieve that perfect light texture, we rely on a few essential tools and equipment. These items help ensure even mixing, precise cooking, and easy flipping, building on the ingredients we discussed earlier.
Essential Tools
We recommend gathering the following basics for an efficient crepe-making process:
- Mixing bowl: A medium-sized mixing bowl is crucial for combining our buttermilk, eggs, flour, and other wet ingredients. Opt for one with a wide rim to make whisking easier and prevent spills.
- Whisk or blender: Use a sturdy whisk for manually blending the batter to incorporate air and create a smooth consistency, or a blender for quick, lump-free results if you’re short on time.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s success, so precise measuring cups and spoons ensure the right balance of flour, sugar, and salt for that tangy flavor.
- Non-stick skillet or crepe pan: The heart of crepe cooking, a 10-inch non-stick skillet or dedicated crepe pan allows for even heat distribution and easy release of the delicate crepes without sticking.
Additional Equipment for Efficiency
For a more professional touch and to enhance our crepe-making experience, consider these optional but helpful items:
- Spatula or crepe spreader: A flexible spatula or crepe spreader helps flip and spread the batter thinly for uniform, lacy edges that showcase the buttermilk’s fluffiness.
- Ladle or measuring cup for pouring: A ¼-cup ladle ensures consistent batter portions, leading to evenly sized crepes every time.
If you’re new to crepes, we suggest investing in a quality non-stick skillet as it significantly reduces the risk of tears and makes the process beginner-friendly. Always check that your tools are clean and ready before starting to maintain the fresh, tangy taste of our buttermilk crepes.
Instructions
We make preparing buttermilk crepes straightforward and enjoyable using the fresh ingredients and essential tools we’ve outlined. Follow these steps to achieve light fluffy crepes with a tangy flavor that delights the palate.
Prepare the Batter
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, we start by combining the wet and dry ingredients for a smooth batter. Begin with 2 cups of buttermilk and 2 large eggs, whisking them together until fully blended for about 1 minute to create a creamy base. Add 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt—along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract if desired—to the mixture. Whisk vigorously until the batter is silky and lump-free, ensuring the tangy notes from the buttermilk shine through for a flavorful result.
Rest the Batter
Once mixed, we let the batter rest to develop its texture and enhance the crepes’ lightness. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and set it aside at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 1 hour if you’re preparing ahead. This resting period allows the flour to hydrate fully, resulting in tender crepes that cook evenly and boast a subtle tang.
Cook the Crepes
We cook the crepes to golden perfection using your non-stick skillet. Heat the skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with ½ teaspoon of melted butter or oil to prevent sticking. Pour about ¼ cup of batter into the center of the pan, then quickly tilt and swirl to spread it into a thin even layer—the aroma of tangy buttermilk will begin to fill the air. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges turn golden and the surface sets, then flip carefully with a spatula and cook the other side for another 30-60 seconds until lightly browned. Repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the crepes on a plate and covering them to keep warm—these yield approximately 8-10 crepes based on size, as shown in the table below for typical outcomes:
| Crepe Batch Size | Expected Yield | Cooking Time per Crepe |
|---|---|---|
| 1x Recipe | 8-10 crepes | 1-2 minutes per side |
Assemble the Crepes
Finally, we assemble the crepes to elevate their taste and presentation with your chosen toppings. Lay a warm crepe on a plate and add options like fresh fruits, whipped cream, maple syrup, Nutella, powdered sugar, or nuts and seeds along the center for a burst of complementary flavors and textures. Fold or roll the crepe neatly, then garnish as desired—the combination creates a visually appealing dish with a harmonious blend of tangy crepe and sweet toppings that makes every bite irresistible.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our buttermilk crepes even more convenient for busy mornings or special occasions, we can prepare them in advance without sacrificing that light, tangy flavor and delicate texture. This approach allows us to enjoy perfectly golden crepes with minimal effort when it’s time to serve.
Preparing and Storing the Batter
We recommend starting with the batter, as it’s the foundation of our crepes. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Mix the batter as directed: Combine 1 cup buttermilk, 2 eggs, 1 cup flour, 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1 tablespoon sugar, a pinch of salt, and optional 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth to ensure a light and airy consistency.
- Rest the batter: Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to develop flavor and texture, just as in our main recipe.
- Store properly: Transfer the batter to an airtight container or cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This resting period in the fridge enhances the tanginess from the buttermilk, making our crepes even more irresistible.
Cooking and Storing Cooked Crepes
If you prefer to cook the crepes ahead, here’s how to do it efficiently:
- Cook in batches: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour about 1/4 cup batter per crepe, swirling to spread evenly. Cook until golden on each side, as outlined in our preparation section.
- Cool completely: Stack the cooked crepes on a wire rack and let them cool to room temperature. This prevents them from sticking together and maintains their delicate, lacy edges.
- Store for later: Layer the crepes with parchment paper in between to avoid sticking, then place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. Refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Freezing preserves the fresh taste and prevents sogginess.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy our buttermilk crepes, reheating is straightforward:
- From the fridge: Warm the crepes in a dry skillet over low heat for 30 seconds per side, or microwave them between damp paper towels for 10-15 seconds to restore their soft, pliable texture.
- From the freezer: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as above. Avoid high heat to keep the crepes from becoming tough or dry.
| Storage Method | Batter Duration | Cooked Crepes Duration | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours | Up to 2 days | Maintains freshness and ease of access |
| Freezing | Not recommended | Up to 1 month | Extends shelf life for meal prep |
Conclusion
We’ve shared our simple buttermilk crepes recipe to bring joy to your kitchen. It’s a versatile treat that elevates everyday meals with its light tangy flavor.
We’re confident you’ll find it easy to master and customize. Give it a try and make it a staple in your routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are buttermilk crepes?
Buttermilk crepes are a delightful twist on traditional French crepes, featuring a light, fluffy texture and tangy flavor from buttermilk. Originating from France, they make a versatile option for breakfast or brunch, appealing to both beginners and experienced cooks due to their easy preparation and impressive results.
What ingredients do I need for buttermilk crepes?
You’ll need simple, high-quality ingredients like buttermilk, eggs, flour, melted butter, sugar, salt, and optional vanilla extract for the batter. This combination creates a light and tangy base. For toppings, consider fresh fruits, whipped cream, maple syrup, Nutella, powdered sugar, or nuts/seeds to enhance flavor and presentation.
What tools are required to make buttermilk crepes?
Essential tools include a medium-sized mixing bowl, a whisk or blender for the batter, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and a non-stick skillet or crepe pan for even cooking. A spatula or ladle can help with pouring and flipping. Beginners should opt for a quality non-stick skillet to avoid tearing and ensure smooth results.
How do I prepare buttermilk crepes?
Start by mixing buttermilk, eggs, flour, melted butter, sugar, salt, and optional vanilla extract into a batter, then let it rest for better texture. Heat a non-stick skillet, pour in batter, and cook until golden, flipping carefully. Stack and serve with toppings like fruits or syrup for a tasty treat. The process is straightforward and yields great results.
Can I make buttermilk crepes ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours to enhance flavor and texture. Cooked crepes can be stored in the fridge for a few days or frozen for longer. Reheat in a skillet or microwave to keep them soft and pliable, making them ideal for busy mornings or special occasions.
What toppings go well with buttermilk crepes?
Great toppings include fresh fruits like berries or bananas, whipped cream, maple syrup, Nutella, powdered sugar, and nuts or seeds. These add sweetness and contrast to the tangy crepes, making them visually appealing and customizable for any meal, from simple breakfasts to elegant brunches.