Classic French Crepes

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional for sweet crepes)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons melted butter (plus extra for cooking)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for sweet crepes)
– Filling of your choice (e.g., Nutella, jam, fresh fruit, whipped cream)

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Batter:**
– In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, milk, sugar (if using), salt, melted butter, and vanilla extract (if using) until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. You can also use a blender to mix the ingredients for a smoother batter.
– Let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator. This helps the flour fully absorb the liquid, resulting in more tender crepes.

2. **Cook the Crepes:**
– Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat. Lightly grease the pan with butter.
– Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the center of the pan, tilting the pan in a circular motion to spread the batter evenly across the surface.
– Cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until the edges start to lift and the bottom is golden brown. Flip the crepe with a spatula and cook for an additional 1 minute on the other side.
– Remove the crepe from the pan and place it on a plate. Continue cooking the remaining batter, stacking the cooked crepes on top of each other to keep them warm.

3. **Serve:**
– Spread your desired filling (e.g., Nutella, jam, or fresh fruit) on each crepe and fold or roll them up.
– Serve warm with optional toppings such as powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh fruit.

**Tips:**

– **For Sweet Crepes:** Add a tablespoon of sugar and a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter.
– **For Savory Crepes:** Omit the sugar and vanilla. Fill with savory ingredients like ham, cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach.

Enjoy these delicious, versatile crepes as a breakfast treat, dessert, or even a light meal!