Strawberry Crepes are the perfect way to bring a touch of elegance to your breakfast or brunch. These tender, thin pancakes are filled with a luxurious mascarpone cream and fresh strawberries, then finished with a delicate dusting of confectioners’ sugar. Light, fruity, and beautifully layered, they’re as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Whether you’re hosting a spring brunch or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe is a timeless classic that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
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Fresh strawberries, sliced (about 1 cup)
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3 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
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¾ cup heavy cream
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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½ cup mascarpone cheese
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6 to 8 pre-made or homemade sweet crepes
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Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Directions
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In a small bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Toss gently and let them sit for about 10 minutes to macerate.
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In a separate bowl, whisk the heavy cream until it begins to thicken and look glossy.
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Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar and the vanilla extract to the cream. Continue to whisk until soft peaks form.
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Gently fold the mascarpone cheese into the whipped cream mixture until smooth and creamy.
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Working one crepe at a time, lay it flat on a work surface.
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Spread about 2 heaping tablespoons of the mascarpone cream mixture over half of the crepe.
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Sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of the macerated strawberries over the cream.
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Fold the crepe in half, then in half again to form a triangle.
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Repeat with the remaining crepes and filling.
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To serve, top each crepe with a small dollop of the mascarpone cream and a few extra strawberries. Dust with confectioners’ sugar for a sweet, elegant finish.
Nutrients (Per filled crepe, approx.)
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Calories: ~230 kcal
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Carbohydrates: ~16 g
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Protein: ~3 g
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Fat: ~18 g
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Saturated Fat: ~11 g
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Sugar: ~12 g
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Fiber: ~1 g
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Cholesterol: ~60 mg
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Calcium: ~40 mg
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Vitamin C: High (from strawberries)
The Beauty of Simplicity in French Cuisine
Crepes are one of France’s most beloved culinary exports. Unlike the thicker American-style pancakes, crepes are ultra-thin, soft, and slightly elastic, making them the perfect vessel for both sweet and savory fillings. They originated in the Brittany region of France and quickly became a staple across the country and eventually the world. Their versatility is one of their greatest strengths, and when paired with fresh fruit and a creamy filling, they embody the essence of elegant simplicity that French cuisine is known for.
The strawberry crepe brings together classic European elements: fresh produce, creamy mascarpone (a rich Italian cheese), and the tradition of artisanal crepe-making. The result is a dish that feels both luxurious and accessible.
Mascarpone: A Creamy Upgrade
One of the standout elements of this recipe is the mascarpone cream. While many crepe recipes call for whipped cream or cream cheese fillings, mascarpone adds a velvety richness that elevates the dish to another level. Its mildly sweet and buttery flavor complements the tartness of the strawberries without overpowering them. The texture is smoother and more indulgent than typical cream fillings, giving each bite a luxurious mouthfeel.
Mascarpone is a soft Italian cheese traditionally used in desserts like tiramisu, and its versatility makes it perfect for enhancing lighter breakfast dishes like crepes. When whipped together with heavy cream and a touch of vanilla, it becomes airy yet rich, making it the ideal filling for the thin, pliable crepe.
The Role of Macerated Strawberries
Fresh strawberries are already a treat on their own, but when macerated, they release their natural juices and become even more flavorful. The process of maceration involves letting the sliced berries sit with a bit of sugar, which draws out their juices and intensifies their natural sweetness.
This step adds depth to the crepes by creating a subtle syrup that blends into the mascarpone cream. The juicy berries become softer and more aromatic, providing a perfect contrast to the richness of the filling. It’s a simple technique that makes a significant impact on the final result, turning an ordinary fruit topping into something truly special.
Serving Occasions: From Weekend Brunch to Romantic Breakfast
Strawberry crepes with mascarpone cream are suitable for a variety of occasions. They’re light enough to serve at a spring or summer brunch, yet indulgent enough to appear on a Mother’s Day breakfast tray or a romantic breakfast in bed. Their visually appealing presentation—folded crepes dusted with confectioners’ sugar and topped with a few extra strawberries—adds a festive flair to any table.
Because the crepes can be made ahead of time and assembled just before serving, they are a convenient option for entertaining. You can even prepare the mascarpone filling the night before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to build the crepes, making morning prep a breeze.
Nutritional Balance and Indulgence
Though these crepes are considered a treat, they provide a balanced combination of textures and nutrients. The strawberries bring a healthy dose of vitamin C and antioxidants, while the mascarpone and cream offer calcium and energy-rich fats. With a moderate amount of sugar and a reasonable calorie count per serving, they strike a balance between indulgence and mindfulness.
Each filled crepe provides around 230 calories, making it a satisfying option that won’t leave you feeling overly full. For those looking to add even more nutritional value, the recipe can be adjusted to include whole wheat crepes or additional fruits such as blueberries or raspberries.
Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Crepes
Creating the perfect crepe doesn’t have to be intimidating. Using either pre-made or homemade sweet crepes, the key is ensuring they’re soft and flexible so they don’t tear when folded. If making crepes from scratch, resting the batter for 20-30 minutes allows the flour to fully absorb the liquid, resulting in a smoother texture.
The mascarpone cream should be whipped just until soft peaks form—overmixing can cause the texture to become too stiff. Folding the mascarpone into the whipped cream instead of beating it in helps maintain a light and fluffy consistency.
When folding the crepes, be gentle and aim for neat triangles or rolls. Presentation plays a big role in the enjoyment of this dish, and a well-folded crepe filled with cream and berries is a joy to behold.
Pairing Ideas and Custom Variations
To elevate your brunch table, consider pairing these strawberry crepes with a mimosa, iced coffee, or a fruit-infused tea. Their sweet and slightly tangy flavor pairs beautifully with citrus drinks and mild beverages that cleanse the palate.
Want to switch things up? Try adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the strawberries for a gourmet twist, or swap out strawberries for seasonal berries like blackberries, raspberries, or even slices of ripe peach. For a chocolate lover’s version, a thin spread of Nutella under the cream layer will give you an extra layer of decadence without compromising the balance of flavors.
You can also experiment with toppings—light lemon zest, chopped mint, or even a splash of rosewater can transform the dish with minimal effort.
Conclusion: A Recipe to Savor and Share
Strawberry crepes with mascarpone cream are more than just a delicious breakfast or brunch dish—they’re a celebration of flavor, texture, and tradition. From the smooth mascarpone cream to the vibrant strawberries and the tender crepe layers, each bite offers a harmony of rich and refreshing elements.
Perfect for spring gatherings, special mornings, or as a treat for yourself, this recipe captures the joy of slow, intentional cooking and the pleasure of sharing something beautiful and delicious. It’s a dish that never goes out of style and always leaves a lasting impression.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a weekend chef, adding these strawberry crepes to your repertoire will bring elegance, charm, and a touch of French-inspired flair to your kitchen.
