Lace crepes

Ingredients

Crepes

75 grams (2.65 ounces) wheat flour
40 grams (1.4 ounces) cornstarch
60 grams (2.1 ounces) sugar
1 egg (large)
110 milliliters (3.7 ounces) milk
pinch of salt
0.5 tablespoon (7.5 milliliters) vegetable oil
40 grams (1.4 ounces) rice flour

Equipment

Sifter
Ensure a smooth, lump-free batter by sifting your flours and cornstarch beforehand.
Mixing Bowl
A medium-sized bowl works best for mixing all your ingredients comfortably.
Hand Mixer
A hand mixer can help you achieve a perfectly smooth batter quickly and easily. If you don't have one, a whisk works too, but will take a bit more effort.
Pastry Bag
Crisp, clean lines and patterns on your crepes are easier to achieve with a pastry bag. If you don't have one, a ziplock bag with a corner cut off works too.
Non-stick Frying Pan
A good non-stick pan ensures that your crepes cook evenly without sticking, crucial for creating the ideal texture.

Instructions

Step 1

1. Sift the wheat flour, rice flour, and cornstarch into a bowl. Add the sugar and a pinch of salt, and mix well. Sifting helps to combine the dry ingredients evenly and removes any lumps.

Step 2

2. Add the egg and milk to the bowl. Using a mixer, beat the mixture until smooth. Then, pour in the vegetable oil and beat again until smooth. The batter should be free of lumps. If you don't have a mixer, you can whisk by hand, but make sure there are no lumps in the batter.

Step 3

3. Transfer the batter into a pastry bag. If you don't have a pastry bag, you can use a ziplock bag and cut a small hole in one of the corners.

Step 4

4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat without adding any oil. It's important to use a non-stick pan to easily remove the crepes without tearing them.

Step 5

5. Squeeze the batter out of the pastry bag in any pattern you like onto the dry frying pan. Fry each crepe on one side until the edges lift up and the crepe can be easily lifted with a spatula. Crepes cook quickly, so watch them closely to prevent burning.

Step 6

6. Once the crepe is cooked, roll it into a tube right in the pan. Continue with the remaining batter. Serve warm. Bon Appetit! You can fill the crepes with sweet or savory fillings for extra flavor.

Servings

Picture this: A lazy Sunday morning, a cup of freshly brewed coffee, and a stack of warm crepes ready to be devoured. You don't need an elaborate setting or a special occasion to enjoy these delicate pastries. Serve them with a generous dusting of powdered sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice for a classic touch. If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, spread a thin layer of Nutella or any chocolate hazelnut spread, and top with sliced bananas or strawberries for a fruity twist. For a savory option, fill your crepes with ham and cheese, and pop them in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Lastly, pair your crepes with ice cream and a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert that's sure to impress your guests!

Variations

To make your crepes gluten-free, substitute the wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients, especially the cornstarch and rice flour, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination. For a vegan variation, replace the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit until it forms a gel). Use almond milk, soy milk, or another plant-based milk in place of dairy milk. Make sure your vegan crepes are cooked on a non-stick pan or with a light brushing of your favorite plant-based oil.

Faq

Do I have to use a sifter for the flours?
Yes, sifting helps ensure a smooth batter without lumps, which is crucial for the perfect crepe texture.
Can I use a regular frying pan instead of non-stick?
While it's possible, a non-stick frying pan is highly recommended to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
How do I prevent my crepes from tearing?
Make sure your batter is smooth and the pan is properly heated before adding the batter. Move quickly but gently when flipping the crepe.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter the night before and keep it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before cooking.
What are some advanced crepe decoration techniques?
Experiment with patterns by varying the pressure on the pastry bag and trying different nozzle tips. You can also try color variations by adding natural food coloring or cocoa powder to the batter.
Can I freeze the crepes?
Yes, you can freeze crepes by placing parchment paper between them to prevent sticking, then store in an airtight container. Reheat them in a dry pan or microwave.