Bright Strawberry Shortcake Crepes
Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes
I absolutely love making these Bright Strawberry Shortcake Crepes when summer strawberries are in season. The delicate crepes paired with sweet, juicy strawberries and a light whipped cream create a dessert that's both refreshing and indulgent. As we layer each component together, the bright flavors of the strawberries truly shine. It's a delightful way to enjoy a warm day, and I find these crepes perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy evening dessert. Trust me, one bite and you'll be hooked!
Bright Strawberry Shortcake Crepes became a staple in my kitchen after I experimented with different fruits and flavors. The process is surprisingly simple, yet it delivers an elegant presentation. I've learned that letting the crepes rest for a few minutes allows them to set perfectly, making them easier to handle and fill. It’s a small tip that makes a big difference!
One time, I added a hint of lemon zest to the whipped cream, which elevated the overall flavor profile. The balance between the sweetness of the strawberries, the creaminess of the filling, and the lightness of the crepes creates a harmony that leaves guests raving about this dessert. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Delicate crepes provide a perfect base for fresh strawberries
- Light and airy whipped cream adds a delightful creaminess
- A refreshing dessert that's easy to prepare for any occasion
Mastering the Crepes
To achieve the perfect crepe, consistency in the batter is key. Ensure that there are no lumps by thoroughly whisking and allowing the batter to rest for ten minutes. This resting period allows the gluten in the flour to relax, resulting in more tender crepes. Additionally, using a non-stick skillet helps you easily flip the crepes without them sticking. Maintaining a medium heat prevents burning and ensures an even cook, giving you those desired golden edges.
When pouring the batter into the skillet, use a ladle or measuring cup for consistent sizing. Swirl the batter immediately to create a thin, even layer. If you find that your first crepe is too thick, reduce the amount of batter used. It's common for the first crepe to be a test run, so don’t worry if it isn’t perfect—grease the skillet lightly with butter or oil before each new crepe for optimal release.
Strawberry Preparation Tips
Select ripe, fresh strawberries for this recipe to enhance flavor. Look for berries that are bright red and slightly firm; avoid any with mushy spots. When slicing, try to keep uniform thickness to ensure even maceration. The sugar will draw out the natural juices from the strawberries, creating a sweet syrupy mix that perfectly complements the light crepes and whipped cream. Allowing them to sit for about ten minutes not only softens the strawberries but also intensifies the overall flavor.
If strawberries aren’t in season, feel free to substitute with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, or even use a mix for a burst of colors and flavors. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for a zesty twist—this will help balance the sweetness of the filling and bring a refreshing brightness that resonates with summer.
Whipped Cream Variations
While this recipe calls for traditional whipped cream, you can easily personalize it. For a richer flavor, consider infusing the cream with a teaspoon of almond extract or using coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Make sure to chill your bowl and beaters before whipping the cream; this helps it whip faster and to greater volume. Aim for soft peaks when whipping; be careful not to overwhip, or you’ll end up with butter instead of fluffy cream.
If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the powdered sugar or try substituting it with honey or maple syrup, mixing well until dissolved. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a unique twist to the dessert. Additionally, you can fold in a bit of yogurt or sour cream after whipping for a tangy contrast that elevates the strawberries’ sweetness.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dessert.
Crepes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
With these ingredients at hand, you're ready to make a delicious dessert!
Instructions
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Bright Strawberry Shortcake Crepes.
Make the Crepe Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, melted butter, sugar, and salt until smooth. Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes.
Cook the Crepes
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the skillet, swirling to cover the surface. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges start to lift, then flip and cook for another minute. Repeat with remaining batter.
Prepare the Strawberries
In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and vanilla extract. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
Make the Whipped Cream
In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Assemble the Crepes
To assemble, fill a crepe with strawberry mixture and a dollop of whipped cream. Fold or roll the crepe and place it on a plate. Repeat for all crepes.
Enjoy your delicious Bright Strawberry Shortcake Crepes!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, consider adding some lemon zest to the whipped cream for a citrusy kick.
Serving Suggestions
These Bright Strawberry Shortcake Crepes are versatile and can be served many ways. For a stunning presentation, stack the crepes with layers of filling and whipped cream and garnish with whole strawberries or a sprig of mint. If you're hosting a brunch, consider serving them with a selection of toppings like chocolate sauce or citrus curd for guests to customize their own plates.
For a more indulgent experience, you could also drizzle a warm strawberry sauce made from extra macerated strawberries and a splash of water over the assembled crepes. This adds a luscious layer of flavor and keeps the dessert perfectly moist. Don't hesitate to serve these crepes alongside a cup of coffee or tea, which balances the sweetness beautifully.
Make-Ahead and Storage
The components of this recipe can be made ahead to make your assembly easier. Crepes can be prepared and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Layer parchment paper between the crepes to prevent them from sticking together. When ready to serve, reheat them quickly on a skillet over low heat for about 30 seconds on each side, just to warm through.
Consider preparing the strawberry filling a few hours in advance and storing it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, the whipped cream is best made fresh, as it can lose volume and texture when stored. If you need to make it ahead, try whipping it to just soft peaks and storing it in the fridge in a covered container until you’re ready to serve.
Scaling the Recipe
This recipe is easily scalable, whether you’re serving a small gathering or a larger crowd. For each batch of crepes, you’ll typically get about 8-10 crepes, which can be adjusted depending on your guests' appetites. Simply multiply the crepe, filling, and whipped cream ingredients according to the number of servings desired; just keep an eye on increasing the maceration time for larger quantities of strawberries.
If you're expecting a big crowd, consider setting up a crepe bar. Prepare the crepes and filling separately, allowing guests to assemble their own. This makes it interactive and personalizes the experience while also accommodating different dietary preferences and tastes.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the crepes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the crepes in advance. Just store them in the fridge, separated by parchment paper, for up to two days.
→ What can I use instead of strawberries?
You can substitute strawberries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches.
→ How can I store leftover crepes?
Store leftover crepes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat them gently before serving.
→ Can I freeze the crepes?
Yes, you can freeze crepes. Place parchment paper between each crepe and then store in a freezer bag for up to three months.
Bright Strawberry Shortcake Crepes
I absolutely love making these Bright Strawberry Shortcake Crepes when summer strawberries are in season. The delicate crepes paired with sweet, juicy strawberries and a light whipped cream create a dessert that's both refreshing and indulgent. As we layer each component together, the bright flavors of the strawberries truly shine. It's a delightful way to enjoy a warm day, and I find these crepes perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy evening dessert. Trust me, one bite and you'll be hooked!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Easy Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Crepes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, melted butter, sugar, and salt until smooth. Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the skillet, swirling to cover the surface. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges start to lift, then flip and cook for another minute. Repeat with remaining batter.
In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and vanilla extract. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
To assemble, fill a crepe with strawberry mixture and a dollop of whipped cream. Fold or roll the crepe and place it on a plate. Repeat for all crepes.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, consider adding some lemon zest to the whipped cream for a citrusy kick.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 31g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 5g