Ah, the French classic crepe cake!
A delightful dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress your guests, this cake is a must-try.
In this blog post, we’re going to show you how to make a French classic crepe cake recipe that will leave your taste buds singing with joy.
To make this delicious crepe cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 3 cups of whole milk
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
Tips for selecting quality ingredients
When it comes to selecting the ingredients for your French classic crepe cake, you want to make sure you’re using high-quality ingredients.
- Choose organic flour if possible. It’s free of harmful pesticides and contains more nutrients than conventionally grown flour.
- Use free-range eggs. They’re more nutritious than eggs from caged hens and have a richer flavor.
- Use whole milk for a creamier texture.
- Use unsalted butter for better control of the flavor of your cake.
Now that you have all your ingredients, follow these steps for preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture, whisking constantly until smooth.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the melted butter to the batter and whisk until combined.
- Heat the skillet over medium-high heat. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the skillet and swirl it around to create a thin, even layer.
- Cook the crepe for about 2 minutes on each side, or until lightly golden brown.
- Repeat until all the batter is used up.
- To make the pastry cream filling, heat 2 cups of milk in a saucepan over medium heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 egg yolks, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
- Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
- Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and heat over medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens.
- Remove from heat and whisk in 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Allow the pastry cream to cool completely.
- To make the whipped cream filling, beat 2 cups of heavy cream with 1/4 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
To assemble your French classic crepe cake. Here’s how:
- Place one crepe on a cake stand or serving platter.
- Spread a thin layer of pastry cream over the crepe.
- Place another crepe on top of the pastry cream.
- Repeat until all the crepes are used up, making sure to spread a thin layer of pastry cream between each crepe.
- Once you’ve used up all the crepes, spread a thin layer of whipped cream over the top of the cake.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving.
Optional variations for adding different flavors or decorations
If you want to add some extra flavor or decorations to your French classic crepe cake, here are some ideas:
- Add a layer of sliced strawberries or other fruits between the crepes for a fresh, fruity twist.
- Drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over the top of the cake for an indulgent touch.
- Dust some powdered sugar over the top of the cake for a classic, elegant look.
- Top the cake with some fresh flowers or edible flowers for a beautiful, Instagram-worthy presentation.
Serving and Storing
Once your French Classic Crepe Cake is assembled, it’s time to serve and enjoy!
- Use a sharp knife to cut the cake into slices. Wipe the knife clean between slices to keep the presentation neat and tidy.
- Serve the cake cold or at room temperature.
- Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat the cake, place it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
FAQs
What is a French classic crepe cake?
A French classic crepe cake is a cake made up of layers of thin crepes stacked on top of each other with pastry cream or whipped cream filling in between the layers.
How many crepes do I need for a French classic crepe cake?
The number of crepes needed for a French classic crepe cake depends on the size of the crepes and the size of the cake you want to make. Generally, you will need about 20-25 crepes for a 9-inch cake.
How long does it take to make a French classic crepe cake?
The total time it takes to make depends on your level of experience and the recipe you are using. On average, it can take around 2-3 hours to make the cake, including preparation, cooking, and assembly.
Can I make a French classic crepe cake ahead of time?
Of course! You can always make crepes and filling a day or two in advance, and then assemble the cake just before serving.
Can I use a blender to make the crepe batter?
Yes, you can use a blender to make the crepe batter. Blending the ingredients can help to create a smooth and consistent batter.
Can I use a different filling for my French classic crepe cake?
Yes, you can use a different filling for your classic crepe cake. Some other popular fillings include Nutella, fruit jam, lemon curd, or chocolate ganache.
How do I prevent my crepes from sticking to the pan?
To prevent your crepes from sticking to the pan, make sure the pan is well greased and heated to the right temperature. You can also try using a non-stick pan or spraying the pan with cooking spray.
How do I store leftover crepe cake?
You can store the leftoversin an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
Can I freeze my French classic crepe cake?
Yes, you can freeze your crepe cake. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. When ready to serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bring it to room temperature before serving.
Can I make crepes without a crepe pan?
Yes, you can make crepes without a crepe pan. You can use a non-stick skillet or a frying pan instead. Just make sure the pan is well-greased and heated to the right temperature.
How thin should the crepes be for a French classic crepe cake?
The crepes for a French classic crepe cake should be very thin, about 1/16 inch thick or less. You want them to be pliable and easy to roll without cracking.
Can I use a different type of flour for my crepes?
Yes, you can use different types of flour for your crepes, such as whole wheat flour, buckwheat flour, or gluten-free flour. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the crepes may be slightly different.
Can I add flavorings to my crepe batter?
Of course! You can add flavorings to your crepe batter, such as vanilla extract, almond extract, or cinnamon. Just be careful not to add too much, as it can affect the texture and cooking time of the crepes.
Do I need to let the crepe batter rest before using it?
It’s recommended to let the crepe batter rest for at least 30 minutes before using it. This allows the flour to fully absorb the liquid and results in a smoother batter.
How do I achieve the perfect texture for my pastry cream filling?
To achieve the perfect texture for your pastry cream filling, make sure to cook it over low heat, stirring constantly. You can also strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
How do I keep my crepes from tearing when assembling the cake?
To keep your crepes from tearing when assembling the cake, make sure they are fully cooled and pliable. You can also use a spatula or your hands to gently shape and stretch the crepes as needed.
Can I make a gluten-free French classic crepe cake?
You can make a gluten-free French classic crepe cake by using a gluten-free flour blend or a combination of gluten-free flours. Make sure to adjust the liquid ratio as needed to achieve the right consistency.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you’ve made it to the end of our French classic crepe cake recipe! We hope you found this blog post helpful and informative. Remember, the key to a successful crepe cake is high-quality ingredients, a perfect crepe texture, and a delicious filling. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to make a French classic crepe cake that will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. Bon appétit!
Check out our selection of cakes at CakeShop.my and order your favourite Mille Crepe cake too!