There’s something magical about a crepe cake. Delicate, buttery crepes layered with soft, pillowy whipped cream, each bite is a gentle cloud of sweetness. The first time I made one, it was for a brunch party where I needed a dessert that looked impressive but didn’t require turning on the oven. Spoiler alert: the cake was devoured before I even set down my mimosa.
This crepe cake recipe is elegant yet approachable, perfect for special occasions or a leisurely weekend treat. The flavor is light and subtly sweet, with soft vanilla notes and a texture that melts in your mouth. Plus, you can customize it endlessly with fresh fruit, chocolate, or flavored creams. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just dabbling, this one’s a guaranteed showstopper.
Table of contents
Why This Crepe Cake Recipe Works
This crepe cake isn’t just pretty, it’s thoughtfully crafted to be as foolproof as it is fabulous. Here’s why it works so well:
- Delicate and Flexible Crepes: The batter is rich yet tender, with just enough elasticity to hold up in a tall stack without tearing.
- Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: Keeps the layers airy and not overly sugary, balancing perfectly with the buttery crepes.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Both the crepes and whipped cream can be prepped ahead, making assembly a breeze.
- No Oven Required: Ideal for hot days or small kitchens.
- Endlessly Customizable: Add cocoa powder to the batter, fold fruit into the cream, or drizzle ganache over the top.
Dietary Adaptations:
- Gluten-Free: Swap in a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and coconut whipped cream.
- Low Sugar: Cut the sugar in both batter and filling for a lighter take.
Recipe Card
Crepe Cake
Difficulty: Medium10
servings45
minutes20
minutes350
kcalThis layered crepe cake recipe combines the elegance of French crepes with creamy layers of rich, lightly sweetened filling. It’s perfect for special occasions or as a delightful dessert to wow your guests!
Ingredients
- For the Crepes
2 cups all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
2 cups milk
3/4 cup water
3 tbsp melted butter
2 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
- For the Filling
2 cups heavy cream, chilled
1/3 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional: fresh fruit or chocolate powder for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the Crepe Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine eggs, milk, and water. Gradually add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.
- Add the melted butter and mix until the batter is well combined. Let the batter rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Cook the Crepes
- Heat a lightly oiled non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Pour 1/4 cup of batter into the pan, tilting to spread the batter evenly.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until the crepe is golden. Stack cooked crepes on a plate to cool.
- Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Assemble the Crepe Cake
- Place one crepe on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream over the crepe.
- Repeat with remaining crepes, layering whipped cream between each until the stack is complete.
- Top with whipped cream and garnish with fresh fruit or chocolate powder.
- Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the crepe cake for at least 2 hours to allow it to set. Slice and serve cold for the best taste.
Notes
- Resting the batter ensures tender, delicate crepes.
- For a more stable filling, add a stabilizer like mascarpone to the whipped cream.
- Chill the cake before serving to help maintain the layered structure.
Tips for the best Crepe Cake Recipe
- Sieve the Batter: Sift the crepe batter to remove any lumps, giving you silky smooth layers.
- Consistent Thickness: Use a measuring cup for each crepe to ensure even thickness throughout the cake.
- Firm Up the Layers: For firmer cream layers, add 1-2 tbsp of powdered sugar to stabilize the whipped cream.
- Flavor Variations: Infuse the filling with flavors like coffee or citrus zest for added flair.
- Serving Size: Keep the cake smaller by adjusting the crepe size; 6-inch crepes create a mini-cake perfect for smaller gatherings.
- Decorative Topping: A sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzled chocolate can enhance the cake’s appearance without overpowering the flavors.
- Patience with the Layers: Letting the cake chill between layering helps create defined, beautiful layers.
Storage
Store your crepe cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. To maintain its texture, keep the cake chilled until serving time, as the whipped cream filling may soften if left at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
For a touch of elegance, serve each slice with a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate. Pair with a hot cup of tea or a flute of champagne for a celebratory vibe. Add seasonal fruits or a scoop of ice cream on the side to make each slice even more delightful!
Recipe Variants
- Chocolate Crepe Cake: Add cocoa powder to the crepe batter for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Matcha Crepe Cake: Incorporate matcha powder for a unique green tea flavor.
- Nutella Crepe Cake: Spread a thin layer of Nutella between crepes for an extra indulgent treat.
- Mango Crepe Cake: Add pureed mango to the whipped cream for a tropical twist.
- Lemon Crepe Cake: Mix lemon zest and juice into the filling for a fresh citrus note.
FAQ of Crepe Cake Recipe
Yes, you can make the crepes a day in advance. Store them with parchment paper between each crepe to prevent sticking.
Typically, a crepe cake has around 15-20 crepes for a striking layered look, but you can adjust based on personal preference.
Absolutely! Using pre-made crepes can save time and make the recipe even more convenient.
Be sure your pan is well-oiled and non-stick. Also, allow each crepe to cook fully on one side before flipping.
Consider custard, chocolate ganache, or even fruit preserves to add more flavor between layers.
Let’s Wrap This Cake Up
There’s just something undeniably satisfying about a dessert that looks fancy but is secretly easy to pull off, and this crepe cake fits the bill perfectly. Whether you serve it at a spring brunch, a holiday get-together, or just because you’re craving something sweet and different, it’s bound to impress.
If you’re as obsessed with this layered beauty as I am, you might also fall in love with the green-hued elegance of our Matcha Crepe Cake Recipe, it’s earthy, vibrant, and a total showstopper. Or maybe you’re in the mood for something a little more nostalgic? Try the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake for a fun, retro-inspired treat.
Looking for more indulgent layered options? The Butterfinger Cake might just become your next guilty pleasure, think rich, crunchy, and all things chocolatey. And for something light yet creamy, don’t miss the Easy Banana Pudding, it’s no-bake and done in a flash!
Thanks so much for stopping by and baking along with me today. I’d love to see your crepe cake creations—feel free to leave a comment below or tag me on social media with your delicious layers. Let’s keep stacking up those sweet moments together!
Leave a Reply