If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both simple and stunning, a crepe cake is the way to go. Made by stacking soft, thin crepes with layers of creamy filling, this cake looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make. Each bite is light, tender, and perfectly sweet—ideal for birthdays, brunches, or anytime you want something a little extra special.
Why We Love This Crepe Cake Recipe
As you delve into this crepe cake recipe, you will find that the combination of flavors and textures is undeniably appealing. The light and airy crepes create a base that beautifully contrasts with the rich and creamy filling made of whipped cream and cream cheese. Adding in the chocolate ganache takes the entire dessert to the next level, providing a luxurious finishing touch that ties everything together.
Moreover, this cake is remarkably adaptable; you can customize the filling and toppings to suit your taste or the occasion. Want to add a fruity twist? Consider incorporating fresh berries or pureed fruit between layers. You’ll learn how simple it is to elevate your creations while still cherishing the original recipe.
After a few steps and some creative flair, you will arrive at a delicious, stunning dessert that is bound to be the star of your dessert table!
Ingredients for Crepe Cake
To prepare this delightful crepe cake, you will need the following ingredients, carefully selected to create the perfect layers and filling.
- For the Crepes:
- 2 cups (473 ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (118 ml) water
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup (57 g) unsalted butter, melted (but not hot)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Cooking oil or melted butter for cooking
- For the Filling:
- 1 2/3 cups (400 ml) heavy cream
- 3/4 cups (93 g) powdered sugar (divided)
- 8 oz (226 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- For the Ganache:
- 3 oz (85 g) chocolate (chopped semisweet baking bar or couverture chocolate chips)
- 6 tablespoons (88 ml) heavy cream
- For Garnish:
- Strawberries (optional)
How to Make Crepe Cake
Creating a crepe cake may seem challenging, but with a bit of patience and practice, you’ll be able to make this dessert effortlessly. Follow these detailed steps to make your very own crepe cake!
Make the Crepe Batter: Start by placing all the crepe ingredients, except for the cooking oil, into a blender. Blend the mixture for about 10 seconds. Scrape down the sides and blend again for an additional 5 seconds to ensure smooth consistency. Once blended, transfer the batter to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period helps to create tender and pliable crepes.
Cook the Crepes: After the batter has chilled, it’s time to cook your crepes. Heat an 8-inch skillet over medium heat and lightly brush the pan with cooking oil or a bit of melted butter. Pour approximately 1/3 cup of crepe batter into the center of the skillet. Quickly swirl the pan to spread the batter into an even circle. Cook until the edges look set and the center is no longer wet, then flip the crepe and cook for an additional minute or until golden brown. Transfer the cooked crepe to a plate and repeat the process with the remaining batter, stacking the crepes as you go.
Prepare the Filling: For the cream filling, place the heavy cream and half of the powdered sugar into a bowl and whip until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, the remaining powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined, creating a light and fluffy filling that will beautifully complement the crepes.
Assemble the Crepe Cake: Begin assembling your cake by placing the first crepe on a clean plate or cake stand. Add a generous spoonful of the filling on top and gently spread it to the edges. Continue layering crepes and filling one by one until all crepes and filling are used. This gentle assembly allows you to create a beautiful stacked cake.
Prepare the Ganache: For the final touch, prepare the chocolate ganache. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer, then pour it over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to melt the chocolate, then whisk until smooth and glossy. Slowly pour the ganache over the assembled crepe cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a beautiful presentation.
Chill and Serve: Place the completed crepe cake in the refrigerator to set for at least an hour. Before serving, you can opt to garnish with fresh strawberries or any other toppings of your choice. Slice into this luxurious layered cake and enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Crepe Cake
The presentation of your crepe cake is just as important as its taste. To serve, consider using a serrated knife for clean cuts, revealing the magnificent layers of crepes and filling. You can garnish each slice with a drizzle of remaining ganache, fresh fruits, or a dollop of whipped cream for added flair.
Pair your crepe cake with a cup of hot coffee or your favorite herbal tea to balance the richness of the dessert. This cake is perfect for a special occasion or an afternoon treat, and it’s sure to become a favorite among your family and friends.
Expert Tips: Crepe Cake
- Crepe Consistency: Be sure to check the consistency of your crepe batter. It should be thin enough to spread easily in the pan but thick enough to hold its shape when cooked. If it’s too thick, you can add a bit more milk or water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Cooking Temperature: Finding the right temperature for your stovetop is essential. If the skillet is too hot, the crepes can burn; if it is too cool, they may not cook evenly. A medium heat is usually the best bet for evenly cooked crepes.
- Even Layering: When adding the filling between crepes, aim for even distribution. Spreading the filling all the way to the edges will help ensure each slice has a balanced amount of filling, making each bite delightful.
- Flavor Infusions: Feel free to infuse your crepe batter with flavors. You can add ingredients like orange zest or almond extract for a little twist. Alternatively, experiment with different types of filling, such as lemon curd or chocolate mousse.
- Chill Between Layers: To maintain the structure of your crepe cake while assembling, you can refrigerate it in stages. Refrigerating for 15 to 20 minutes between adding layers helps the cake set better for a neater slice.
How to Store Crepe Cake
To keep your crepe cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Proper storage prevents it from absorbing any unwanted odors and allows you to enjoy it later. The cake can typically last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, maintaining its delicious texture and flavor throughout.
If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. This method allows you to have a sweet treat ready whenever you need it—simply thaw overnight in the fridge, and it’s ready to enjoy!
Variations of Crepe Cake
The charm of a crepe cake is its versatility. Below are a few variations you can explore to customize your dessert and surprise your taste buds:
- Fruity Crepe Cake: Add pureed fruits like strawberry or raspberry to your cream cheese filling. You can also layer fresh fruit slices between the crepes for added flavor and freshness.
- Chocolate Heaven: For chocolate lovers, incorporate cocoa powder into the crepe batter for a rich chocolate base. Add a chocolate mousse or a cream filling infused with chocolate.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate ground hazelnuts or almonds into the filling for a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake.
- Coffee Crepes: For a caffeine twist, add espresso powder to both your crepe batter and filling. This variation pairs beautifully with the richness of chocolate.
By tailoring the ingredients and fillings to suit your preferences, you can make the crepe cake your own and explore new tastes every time you prepare it.
FAQs
What is a Crepe Cake?
A crepe cake is a layered dessert made by stacking thin crepes with luscious fillings in between each layer. The result is a beautiful multi-layered cake that is visually appealing and rich in taste.
How do I prevent the crepes from sticking?
Using a well-heated skillet and adding a touch of oil or butter each time will help prevent the crepes from sticking. If a crepe does stick, a gentle touch with a spatula should help you release it.
Can I make crepes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crepes ahead of time and simply refrigerate or freeze them, separating each crepe with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Assemble the cake when you’re ready to serve.
Can I decorate my crepe cake?
Definitely! You can use fresh fruits, chocolate shavings, nuts, or even edible flowers to enhance the visual appeal of your crepe cake. Get creative!
How is a crepe cake different from traditional cake?
A crepe cake differs from a traditional cake primarily in its texture and layers. Instead of baked spongy layers, a crepe cake features delicate, light crepes layered with filling, creating a unique experience in every bite.
Crepe Cake
Ingredients
For the Crepes
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (but not hot)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Cooking oil or melted butter for cooking
For the Filling
- 1 2/3 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cups powdered sugar (divided)
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
For the Ganache
- 3 oz chocolate (chopped semisweet baking bar or couverture chocolate chips)
- 6 tablespoons heavy cream
For Garnish
- Strawberries (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Crepes
- Start by placing all the crepe ingredients, except for the cooking oil, into a blender. Blend the mixture for about 10 seconds, then scrape down the sides and blend again for an additional 5 seconds. Transfer the batter to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat an 8-inch skillet over medium heat and lightly brush the pan with cooking oil or melted butter. Pour approximately 1/3 cup of crepe batter into the center of the skillet, swirl the pan to spread the batter into an even circle. Cook until the edges look set, then flip and cook for an additional minute until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, whip the heavy cream and half of the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, the remaining powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
Assemble the Crepe Cake
- Place the first crepe on a clean plate or cake stand. Add a spoonful of the filling on top and spread it to the edges. Continue layering crepes and filling until all are used.
Prepare the Ganache
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it simmers, then pour it over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to melt, then whisk until smooth.
Chill and Serve
- Place the crepe cake in the refrigerator to set for at least an hour. Optionally garnish with fresh strawberries and serve.