Healthy crepes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 (Makes about 8 crepes)
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary Info: Low-fat, High-fiber, Vegetarian
Introduction
Crepes are a beloved French delicacy known for their thin, light texture and versatility. However, traditional crepes often rely on refined flour, sugar, and butter—ingredients that aren’t always ideal if you’re watching your health. This Healthy Crepes recipe offers a delicious and nutritious alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. Made with whole wheat flour, almond milk, and a touch of natural sweetener, these crepes are high in fiber and protein while being low in fat and sugar.
Whether you’re looking for a wholesome breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a healthy dessert, these crepes can be filled with both sweet or savory ingredients. Keep reading to learn how to make them step-by-step, along with helpful tips and nutritional information!
Ingredients
For the Crepe Batter:
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1 cup whole wheat flour
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1 ¼ cups unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
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2 large eggs
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1 tablespoon olive oil or melted coconut oil
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1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
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½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for sweet crepes)
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Pinch of salt
Optional Fillings (Choose Sweet or Savory):
Sweet Options:
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Fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, sliced strawberries)
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Greek yogurt or skyr
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Almond or peanut butter
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Banana slices
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A drizzle of honey or dark chocolate
Savory Options:
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Sautéed spinach and mushrooms
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Scrambled egg whites
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Low-fat cheese
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Avocado slices
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Grilled chicken strips (optional)
Equipment Needed
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Medium mixing bowl
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Whisk or blender
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Non-stick skillet or crepe pan (8-10 inches)
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Ladle or ¼ cup measuring cup
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Spatula
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Cooling rack or plate with parchment paper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, almond milk, oil, vanilla, and honey (if using). Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. If you want an extra-smooth texture, you can blend all ingredients in a blender for about 15–20 seconds.
Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes at room temperature. This step helps the flour absorb the liquid for a more cohesive, pliable crepe.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Preheat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat. Lightly grease it with a small amount of oil or non-stick spray. You don’t need much, especially if your pan is well-seasoned.
Step 3: Cook the Crepes
Pour about ¼ cup of batter into the center of the pan and immediately swirl it around to evenly coat the bottom. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the edges begin to lift and the bottom turns golden brown. Use a spatula to gently flip the crepe and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute on the other side.
Transfer the cooked crepe to a plate lined with parchment paper or a cooling rack. Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the pan only as needed.
Step 4: Add Your Fillings
Lay a crepe flat on a plate and add your chosen filling to one half. Fold in half or roll up like a burrito, depending on your preference.
For sweet crepes, try a layer of Greek yogurt topped with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey. For savory crepes, consider filling them with scrambled egg whites, sautéed veggies, and a sprinkle of low-fat cheese.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the crepes warm with extra toppings on the side. If you’re hosting brunch or meal-prepping for the week, you can keep crepes warm in a low oven (200°F or 95°C) covered with foil.
Tips for Success
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Make It Vegan: Use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and substitute honey with maple syrup.
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Make Ahead: The batter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just stir before using.
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Freeze for Later: Cooked crepes can be stacked (with parchment between) and frozen in a ziplock bag for up to 1 month. Reheat on a skillet or microwave.
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Don’t Overfill: Overloading with filling can cause crepes to tear. Keep it light and balanced.
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Adjust Thickness: If your batter is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of almond milk to thin it out.
Nutrition Facts (Per Crepe, without fillings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 95 kcal |
| Protein | 4.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Total Fat | 3.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 35 mg |
| Sodium | 65 mg |
Note: Nutritional values will vary depending on your choice of fillings and toppings.