Homemade Lemon Crepes

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

I’ve always had a soft spot for lemon desserts, and these homemade lemon crepes hit the perfect balance of tart and sweet. Delicate, buttery crepes wrapped around a zesty lemon filling, dusted with powdered sugar—it’s the kind of breakfast or dessert that instantly feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of lemon crepes lies in their simplicity. Whether I’m serving them at a weekend brunch or as a light finish to dinner, they never fail to impress. The citrus flavor is bright and refreshing, while the texture of the crepes is smooth and tender. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a treat but comes together with pantry staples.

---

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Lemon Crepes Recipe

These crepes are a wonderful way to elevate everyday ingredients into something elegant. They’re light yet satisfying, with a flavor profile that works beautifully year-round. Lemon fans will especially appreciate the vibrant citrus punch paired with the buttery crepe. Plus, they’re versatile—you can enjoy them warm, chilled, plain, or dressed up with toppings.

---

What Kind of Lemon Should I Use?

Fresh lemons are a must here. You’ll want both the juice and the zest to bring out the full brightness of the lemon flavor. Meyer lemons can be a lovely twist—they’re slightly sweeter and less tart than standard lemons, adding a more floral note. Whichever type you use, make sure they’re juicy and ripe for the best result.

---

Options for Substitutions

If you’re out of lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but the zest is hard to replicate. Orange or lime zest can provide a fun variation. For dairy-free versions, substitute the milk with almond or oat milk, and use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of traditional butter. You can even fill the crepes with dairy-free lemon curd or a fruit compote if you want to avoid cream-based fillings.

---

Ingredients for Homemade Lemon Crepes

Flour – All-purpose flour provides structure and keeps the crepes light and pliable. It’s essential for forming a smooth, lump-free batter.

Eggs – They bind the ingredients and help the crepes stay together without tearing while adding richness to the batter.

Milk – Whole milk gives the crepes their tender texture and helps thin out the batter so it spreads easily in the pan.

Butter – Melted butter enriches the batter and prevents the crepes from sticking to the pan.

Sugar – A small amount of sugar adds subtle sweetness and enhances the flavor of the lemon filling.

Salt – Just a pinch balances the sweetness and brings out the lemon’s brightness.

Lemon Zest – Adds a fragrant citrus aroma and intensifies the lemon flavor in every bite.

Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key for a vibrant and tangy flavor in both the batter and the filling.

Powdered Sugar – Used for dusting, it adds a final touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

Optional Filling (Lemon Curd or Sweetened Ricotta) – You can use homemade lemon curd or a mix of ricotta cheese with lemon zest and honey to fill the crepes.

---

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. Slowly add the flour while whisking to prevent lumps. Stir in melted butter, sugar, salt, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whisk until the batter is smooth and has a thin, pourable consistency. Let it rest for 20–30 minutes to relax the gluten and help the batter set.

---

Step 2: Heat the Pan

Use a nonstick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter or cooking spray. The pan should be hot but not smoking.

---

Step 3: Cook the Crepes

Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the center of the pan and swirl it to evenly coat the bottom. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the edges lift and the underside is golden. Flip and cook the other side for another 30–60 seconds. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm. Repeat with remaining batter.

---

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

If using lemon curd, warm it slightly for easier spreading. If using sweetened ricotta, combine ricotta with a touch of honey and lemon zest. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.

---

Step 5: Fill and Fold

Spread a spoonful of filling over one half of each crepe. Fold in half, then fold again into a triangle or roll into a log. Arrange on a serving plate.

---

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Dust with powdered sugar and add extra lemon zest on top for color and flavor. Garnish with a sprig of mint or fresh berries if desired. Serve warm or chilled depending on preference.

---

How Long to Prepare Homemade Lemon Crepes

Making homemade lemon crepes doesn’t take long, and most of the time is passive. From start to finish, you’re looking at under an hour, with plenty of room to multitask or prepare toppings and drinks alongside it.

Prep Time: About 10 minutes to whisk the batter together and another 20–30 minutes to let it rest. This resting period allows the flour to fully absorb the liquid, making the crepes tender and easier to cook.

Cook Time: Each crepe takes around 2–3 minutes to cook. For a batch of 8–10 crepes, set aside 20–25 minutes. If you’re making a filling from scratch, add another 5–10 minutes.

---

Tips for Perfect Homemade Lemon Crepes

• Let the batter rest: This allows the gluten to relax and ensures a smooth texture.
• Use a nonstick pan or well-seasoned crepe pan to avoid sticking.
• Keep the heat medium—not too hot—to avoid burning or undercooking.
• Swirl the batter quickly after pouring to get thin, even crepes.
• Stack cooked crepes between layers of parchment or keep them covered to retain moisture.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the batter rest: This leads to chewy, rubbery crepes.
• Using too much batter: You’ll get thick, pancake-like results instead of delicate crepes.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cook one crepe at a time to maintain control.
• Not greasing the pan: Even nonstick pans need a light coat of butter.
• Flipping too soon: Wait until the edges lift and the top looks set.

---

What to Serve With Homemade Lemon Crepes?

1. Fresh Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix all complement the lemon flavor perfectly.

2. Whipped Cream

Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds richness without overpowering the citrus.

3. Greek Yogurt

A dollop of thick yogurt gives a creamy, tangy contrast that enhances the lemony notes.

4. Maple Syrup or Honey

For a sweet drizzle, try pure maple syrup or a swirl of honey over the top.

5. Herbal Tea or Coffee

Serve with a hot cup of Earl Grey, chamomile, or your favorite brew to round out the dish.

---

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftover crepes (unfilled) in an airtight container with parchment paper between them. They’ll keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Filled crepes should be eaten within 1–2 days.

Freezing: You can freeze unfilled crepes for up to 2 months. Stack them with parchment in between, wrap tightly in plastic, and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently in a pan.

Reheating: Use a nonstick skillet over low heat or microwave briefly (covered with a damp paper towel) until warm.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Per filled crepe (with lemon curd filling and powdered sugar):

• Calories: ~210
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Sugar: 11g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How thin should the batter be?

The batter should be thinner than pancake batter, almost like heavy cream. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge and whisk before using.

Do I need a special crepe pan?

No, a regular nonstick skillet works just fine. A crepe pan helps with even heat, but it’s not necessary.

What if I don’t want a sweet version?

Leave out the sugar and use a savory filling like spinach and feta, or ham and cheese for a twist.

How do I prevent tearing when flipping?

Make sure the crepe is fully cooked on the bottom before flipping. Use a thin spatula and be gentle.

---

Conclusion

Homemade lemon crepes are the kind of dish that turns a regular day into something worth celebrating. Whether you serve them for a weekend brunch, a special breakfast in bed, or a light dessert, their bright flavor and delicate texture are always a win. With just a few basic ingredients and a bit of care, you’ll have a plateful of sunshine ready to enjoy.

---

Print