Get ready to treat yourself to a simple and tasty delight: chocolate hazelnut crepes! This recipe is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack. You’ll find easy steps to whip up the batter and cook the crepes. Plus, I’ll share tips to avoid common mistakes and some fun variations. Let’s dive into this delicious journey and make crepes you’ll love to share with friends and family!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The rich chocolate and nutty hazelnut flavors create a decadent treat that is irresistible.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for both novice and experienced cooks, making it accessible for everyone.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a special celebration, or a simple dessert, these crepes fit the bill.
- Customizable Toppings: You can easily personalize these crepes with various toppings, such as fruits, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make these delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Crepes, you will need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
- 1/2 cup crushed roasted hazelnuts
- Fresh strawberries, sliced (for topping)
- Powdered sugar (for garnish)
Measuring and Preparing Ingredients
Start by measuring your ingredients carefully. Use a dry measuring cup for flour and sugar. For liquids, use a liquid measuring cup. Crack the eggs into a bowl before adding them. This way, you can check for any shell pieces. Melt the butter in a microwave or small pot. Let it cool slightly before adding it to the batter.
Mix the flour, eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla in a bowl with a whisk. Mix until smooth with no lumps. This will give you a great batter for your crepes. Add the melted butter next. Stir well. Cover the bowl and let it sit for 30 minutes. This resting time makes the crepes tender and smooth.
Suggested Quality of Ingredients
Using fresh and high-quality ingredients makes a big difference. Look for all-purpose flour without additives. Use large farm-fresh eggs for the best taste. Choose whole milk for a rich flavor. For the chocolate hazelnut spread, select a brand with real ingredients. Nutella is a great choice. Use fresh, ripe strawberries for a sweet topping. Finally, buy whole hazelnuts and crush them yourself for the best crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Batter
To start, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Next, crack 2 large eggs into the bowl. Pour in 1 1/2 cups of milk. Add 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Use a whisk to mix everything together. Make sure the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
Now, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Slowly pour the melted butter into the batter. Stir until it is fully mixed. Cover the bowl with a clean towel. Let the batter rest for 30 minutes at room temperature. This step helps the flour absorb the liquid. It also makes the crepes softer.
Cooking the Crepes
Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease the skillet with butter or cooking spray. This makes flipping the crepes easier. After that, pour about 1/4 cup of the batter into the center of the skillet. Tilt the skillet in a circular motion. This helps the batter spread evenly.
Cook the crepe for 2-3 minutes. Watch for the edges to lift and turn light brown. Carefully flip the crepe using a spatula. Cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes. Once done, move the crepe to a plate. Continue this process until you finish all the batter, stacking the crepes neatly.
Assembling the Crepes
Now for the fun part! Take one crepe and spread about 1 tablespoon of chocolate hazelnut spread on one half. Sprinkle some crushed roasted hazelnuts on top. Fold the crepe in half, then fold it again to form a triangle.
Repeat this for each crepe until you have a tasty stack. Serve the warm crepes topped with sliced fresh strawberries. Add a light dusting of powdered sugar for that perfect finish. Enjoy your delicious chocolate hazelnut crepes!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Perfect Crepes
To make the best crepes, follow a few simple rules. First, let your batter rest for 30 minutes. This helps the flour absorb the milk. A smooth batter is key for thin, delicate crepes. Use a non-stick skillet for easy flipping. A medium heat works best; too hot will burn the crepes. Flip them only when the edges start to lift. This means they are ready!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people have trouble with crepes. A common mistake is not resting the batter. Skipping this step can lead to chewy crepes. Another mistake is pouring too much batter in the skillet. Use only 1/4 cup for each crepe. Lastly, don’t rush the cooking. Cook them slowly for even browning. This way, they will be soft and tasty.
Recommended Tools and Equipment
You will need a few tools to make crepes easy. A non-stick skillet is a must. It helps prevent sticking. A spatula is essential for flipping the crepes. A measuring cup ensures you use the right amount of batter. A whisk combines ingredients well. Lastly, a large mixing bowl holds everything together. With these tools, your crepes will turn out great!
Pro Tips
- Resting the Batter: Allowing the batter to rest for at least 30 minutes helps improve the texture and elasticity of the crepes, resulting in a more delicate and tender final product.
- Temperature Control: Ensure your skillet is preheated to medium heat before adding the batter. If the heat is too low, the crepes will not cook properly; if too high, they may burn.
- Perfect Flipping Technique: Use a thin spatula to gently lift the edges of the crepe before flipping. This ensures that you don’t tear the delicate crepe while turning it over.
- Creative Fillings: Don't hesitate to experiment with different fillings such as whipped cream, fruit preserves, or even savory options like cheese and spinach for a unique twist on traditional crepes.
Variations
Other Fillings to Try
You can mix up your crepes with different fillings. Try peanut butter with sliced bananas. You can also use cream cheese with fresh berries. For a savory twist, add cheese and spinach. These options make each bite unique and fun.
Flavor Enhancements
To enhance the flavor, add spices to your batter. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can work wonders. You can also swap the vanilla extract for almond extract for a different taste. These small changes can elevate your crepes to new heights.
Creative Topping Ideas
Toppings can turn a simple crepe into a gourmet treat. Try drizzling melted chocolate or caramel sauce on top. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess. Fresh mint leaves or edible flowers can make your dish look stunning. These ideas will impress anyone you serve.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Crepes
To store leftover crepes, stack them neatly on a plate. Place a piece of parchment paper between each crepe. This keeps them from sticking together. Cover the stack with plastic wrap. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to eat the crepes, take them out of the fridge. Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place the crepes in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. If they feel dry, add a little butter or cooking spray. You can also use a microwave. Heat them for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
Freezing Tips for Crepes
To freeze crepes, let them cool completely first. Stack them with parchment paper in between. Wrap the stack tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze them for up to two months. When you want to use them, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make the batter in advance?
Yes, you can make the batter ahead of time. I recommend making it up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. When you are ready to cook, take it out and let it warm up before using.
What can I substitute for the chocolate hazelnut spread?
If you do not have chocolate hazelnut spread, you can use peanut butter or almond butter. You can also use a chocolate spread without nuts. For a healthier option, try a fruit spread or jam.
How do I keep crepes from sticking to the skillet?
To prevent sticking, use a non-stick skillet. Make sure to heat the skillet before adding batter. Lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. If the crepes stick, try lowering the heat a bit. It helps to wait for the edges to lift before flipping.
This article covered all you need to know about making great crepes. We explored the key ingredients, how to measure and prepare them, and the importance of quality. I shared step-by-step instructions for preparing the batter, cooking, and assembling the crepes. We then looked at tips to ensure perfect results and discussed variations to try. Finally, I gave storage tips to keep your crepes fresh. Now, you're ready to make delicious crepes at home with ease! Enjoy your cooking!
