The Difference Between Crepes and Pancakes: A Complete Guide
Introduction
When it comes to breakfast food, pancakes and crepes are two of the most popular options. Although they might look similar, there are quite a few differences between the two. In this article, we’re going to take a closer look at the difference between crepes and pancakes, and which one you should choose the next time you’re in the mood for a sweet or savory breakfast.
The Batter
The biggest difference between crepes and pancakes lies in the batter. Pancake batter is usually thicker and made with baking powder or baking soda, which gives it a fluffy texture. On the other hand, crepe batter is much thinner and made with fewer ingredients. Typically, it includes eggs, flour, sugar, salt, and milk. The thin consistency of crepe batter allows for the creation of a delicately thin pancake with a slightly crispy texture.
The Cooking Process
Another difference between crepes and pancakes lies in how they’re cooked. Pancakes are cooked on a griddle or frying pan, while crepes are cooked on a flat pan called a crepe pan. A crepe pan (usually made of cast iron or stainless steel) is flatter than a griddle or frying pan and wider than a traditional frying pan. It allows for the batter to spread out thinly and cook evenly on both sides in a matter of seconds. Pancakes are typically thicker and take longer to cook.
The Shape and Size
Crepes and pancakes also differ in their shape and size. Pancakes are usually round, thick and fluffy, with a diameter of around 4-6 inches. Crepes, on the other hand, are much larger and thinner, with a diameter of around 10-12 inches. They are also typically folded or rolled, whereas pancakes are stacked on top of each other.
The Filling
Lastly, crepes and pancakes differ in their fillings. Pancakes are usually served with butter and syrup, whipped cream or jam, whereas crepes can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory fillings. Some popular sweet filling options include Nutella or jam, while savory options might include ham and cheese or spinach and feta.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while pancakes and crepes might seem similar at first, there are several key differences that set them apart. Pancakes are thick and fluffy, usually round, and are typically served with a sweet topping. Crepes, on the other hand, are thin and large, folded or rolled, and can be filled with both sweet and savory ingredients. So the next time you’re in the mood for a breakfast classic, consider the differences between crepes and pancakes before you make your choice!
Table difference between crepe and pancakes
| Aspect | Crepe | Pancake |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | France | America |
| Batter | Thin and runny | Thick and fluffy |
| Cooking method | Quickly cooked on a flat pan | Cooked on a griddle or pan |
| Filling | Usually filled with savory ingredients such as cheese, ham, or vegetables | Usually filled with sweet ingredients such as fruit or syrup |
| Serving | Served rolled or folded | Served flat or stacked |