Crepe Cake: Great For Company

Are you looking for a no-bake, delicious cake to make? Look no further than the crepe cake. Not only is this cake relatively easy to make, but it looks so good everyone will think it took you hours to create! With its delicate layers of thin, luscious crepes stacked to create a dessert that is as beautiful as it is delicious, this masterpiece will become a staple in your dessert repertoire. 

A crepe cake is a layered dessert consisting of delicate, thin crepes stacked with various fillings, such as whipped cream, pastry cream, or chocolate ganache. The layers create an impressive visual effect and a delicious treat. All-purpose flour provides the perfect base for creating tender crepes.

To fully comprehend the deliciousness of a crepe cake, we will explore its history and main components, discuss the best type of flour to use, and provide you with an irresistible crepe cake recipe that will amaze your friends and family. So grab your cooking gadgets, and let’s get started on this culinary adventure!

What Type Of Cake Is Crepe Cake? 

While crepe cakes have a rich history, the recipe’s origin is debatable. Many people believe it has a French and Japanese origin story, with Japanese pastry chef Emy Wada introducing the modern mille crêpes cake by stacking crêpes, thin pancakes made from a batter of flour, milk, eggs, and a pinch of salt, with fillings to maintain their freshness. 

Inspired during her travels across Europe, Emy’s innovative technique combined the flavors of crêpes and mille-feuille. Her creation, named “mille crêpes,” became a fusion of two beloved desserts, showcasing the ingenuity born out of necessity. Today you will find this ingenious delight layered with various fillings. 

The main components of a crepe cake are the crepes themselves and the filling, which create a stunning visual effect, making crepe cakes a showstopper at any gathering.

• Crepes: Thin and tender, with a slightly crisp edge and a soft, pliable texture. They serve as the foundation for the cake, providing the structure and a delicate flavor that complements the fillings. 
• Fillings: Add richness, sweetness, and a burst of flavor with each bite. Fillings can include pastry cream, whipped cream, chocolate ganache, or fruit preserves.

What Type Of Flour Do You Use When Making A Crepe Cake? 

When making crepe cakes, your flour is essential for achieving the desired texture and taste. While you can use various types of flour, the key is to choose one that provides a delicate yet sturdy structure. 

All-purpose flour is a popular choice, as its moderate protein content lends the crepes just the right amount of structure without sacrificing tenderness. The fine texture of all-purpose flour ensures a smooth batter, resulting in thin, pliable crepes that are easy to work with.

For those seeking a lighter alternative, you can opt for cake flour. Cake flour’s low protein content produces exceptionally soft and delicate crepes. However, keep in mind that they may be more prone to tearing. 

On the other hand, using bread flour, with its higher protein content, will yield sturdier crepes with a slightly chewier texture.

Ultimately, the choice of flour depends on personal preference and the desired outcome. Whichever flour you choose, remember to measure it accurately, sift it to remove any lumps, and follow the recipe instructions closely. With suitable flour and a little practice, you’ll be well on your way to creating delectable crepe cakes that will impress your eyes and taste buds.

The Best Crepe Cake Recipe

Now that we know the basics of a crepe cake and the different types of flour you could use in this creation, let’s dive into a delicious crepe cake recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Crepe Cake Ingredients

For the crepes:

• 3 ½ cups (460 g) all-purpose flour
• 6 large eggs
• 4 cups (1000 ml) whole milk
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted), 
• Extra butter for greasing the pan

For the filling:

• 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (225 g) of cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (148 g) Nutella (or your preferred chocolate-hazelnut spread)
• 1 cup (140 g) mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)

Instructions:

For the crepes:

1. Combine the following ingredients in a big mixing bowl and whisk them together: sugar, flour, and salt.
2. Crack the eggs into another bowl, whisking them before incorporating them into the flour mixture. Continue whisking until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. Slowly pour the milk in while whisking continuously to create a smooth batter.
4. Add the butter to the batter and whisk until fully incorporated.
5. Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
6. Heat a skillet or non-stick crepe pan over medium heat. Lightly grease the pan with butter.
7. Pour a small ladle or spoonful of batter into the pan, tipping the pan so that the batter coats the bottom evenly.
8. Allow the crepe to cook for approximately 1 to 2 minutes until the edges become golden brown. Carefully flip the crepe over and continue cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
9. Repeat the process until all the batter is used, stacking the crepes on a plate as you go.

For the filling:

1. Combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer, beating the mixture at medium-high speed until it reaches the point where stiff peaks are formed.
2. In a separate bowl, vigorously beat the cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy in texture.
3. Add the Nutella to the cream cheese and mix until well combined.
4. Slowly and carefully mix together the whipped cream into the cream cheese-Nutella mixture until thoroughly combined, keeping the mixture light and fluffy while making it smooth and even.

Assembly:

1. Put a single crepe on a plate or serving dish. Then, carefully spread a thin and even layer of the filling mixture on top of the crepe, making sure to cover the entire surface with the filling.
2. Repeat the process, layering crepes and filling until you run out of crepes, ending with a crepe on top.
3. After you have finished stacking the crepes with the filling, spread the remaining filling on the sides of the cake to create a frosty layer. Cover the cake’s sides with the filling to give it a beautiful and finished look.
4. Decorate the top of the cake with the mixed berries, arranging them in a visually pleasing pattern.
5. Place the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or even overnight, to give the flavors time to blend and the cake to firm up. This chill time will enhance the taste and texture of the cake, making it even more delicious when served.
6. Slice and serve chilled, enjoying each delightful bite!

Conclusion

Crepe cakes are a delightful dessert that combines delicate crepes and luscious fillings to create a stunning and delicious treat. By carefully selecting the flour that suits your preferences and the desired texture, you can ensure the success of your crepe cake. So, gather your ingredients and let your imagination run wild as you craft a beautiful and tasty crepe cake.