How to Make Crêpes Suzette at Home: A Flambéed French Classic with Citrus Sauce

How to Make Crêpes Suzette at Home: A Flambéed French Classic with Citrus Sauce

Crêpes Suzette is the epitome of French elegance, combining delicate, thin crêpes with a zesty orange-infused sauce that’s flambéed to perfection. This iconic dessert is perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party or indulging in a decadent breakfast at home. The rich citrus flavor paired with the buttery sweetness of the sauce creates an irresistible treat that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re familiar with French cuisine or trying something new, this recipe will guide you through creating the classic Crêpes Suzette with ease.

Crêpes Suzette Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Crêpes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ¼ cups milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Extra butter for cooking

For the Suzette Sauce:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• ⅓ cup sugar
• Zest of 1 orange
• Juice of 2 oranges
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons Grand Marnier or another orange liqueur
• 2 tablespoons cognac (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crêpe Batter

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until the batter is smooth.
4. Add the melted butter to the mixture and whisk until fully incorporated. Let the batter rest for 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Crêpes

1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with a small amount of butter.
2. Pour about ¼ cup of batter into the pan and tilt it in circular motions to spread the batter thinly.
3. Cook the crêpe for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to lift, then flip and cook the other side for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Transfer the crêpe to a plate and repeat the process with the remaining batter, adding more butter as needed.

Step 3: Prepare the Suzette Sauce

1. In a skillet or shallow pan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the sugar.
2. Add the orange zest and the fresh orange and lemon juices. Stir occasionally, allowing the sauce to simmer and slightly thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Stir in the Grand Marnier and cognac, if using. Carefully ignite the sauce with a long match to flambé. Let the flame burn out naturally, which will help the alcohol evaporate and intensify the flavor.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Fold each crêpe into quarters and place them in the pan with the warm Suzette sauce.
2. Allow the crêpes to soak in the sauce for a few minutes, gently turning them over to ensure they absorb the flavors.
3. Serve the crêpes warm, spooning extra sauce over the top. Garnish with additional orange zest if desired.