Crepes with Lemon Cream Cheese and Blackberry Filling
Crepes with Lemon Cream Cheese and Blackberry Filling is a medium Scandinavian recipe that serves 4. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by Chef Ani on YouTube.
Prep: 30 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 1 hr 10 min
Cost: $10.99 total, $2.75 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
- 1/2 cup Whole Wheat Flour (sifted)
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- 1/4 tsp Ground Cardamom (adds Scandinavian aroma)
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1.5 cup Plant‑Based Milk (e.g., oat or almond milk)
- 2 tbsp Maple Syrup (for batter sweetness)
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 2 tbsp Neutral Oil (e.g., vegetable or canola oil)
- 1/2 cup Sparkling Water (gives light texture)
- 2 cup Frozen Blackberries
- 2 tbsp Maple Syrup (for compote sweetness)
- 1 tbsp Tapioca Starch (thickening slurry)
- 2 tbsp Water (for slurry)
- 1/2 cup Fresh Blackberries (for garnish and texture)
- 8 oz Plant‑Based Cream Cheese (softened, e.g., soy or almond based)
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 tbsp Powdered Sugar
Instructions
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl whisk together the all‑purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, ground cardamom, and salt until evenly distributed.
Time: PT5M
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl combine the plant‑based milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, neutral oil, and sparkling water. Stir gently.
Time: PT5M
Make the Crepe Batter
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk until the batter is smooth and thin, about the consistency of heavy cream. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes.
Time: PT5M
Heat the Skillet
Place a non‑stick skillet over medium‑high heat and lightly brush with oil. The pan should be hot enough that a few drops of batter sizzle immediately.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: Medium‑high heat
Cook Crepes
Pour a thin ladleful of batter into the center of the pan, swirl to coat the surface, and cook 1‑2 minutes until the edges lift. Flip and cook another 30 seconds. Transfer to a plate and repeat until batter is used (about 8 crepes).
Time: PT15M
Temperature: Medium‑high heat
Prepare Blackberry Compote
In a saucepan combine frozen blackberries and 2 tbsp maple syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring, until the mixture begins to simmer.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: Medium heat
Make Tapioca Slurry
In a small bowl mix the tapioca starch with 2 tbsp water until smooth. Set aside.
Time: PT2M
Thicken Compote
Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering berries while stirring continuously. Continue to simmer for 2‑3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a jam‑like consistency.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: Medium heat
Add Fresh Blackberries
Stir in the fresh blackberries for a burst of color and texture, then remove from heat and set aside.
Time: PT1M
Whip Lemon Cream Filling
In a clean bowl combine the softened plant‑based cream cheese, lemon juice, and powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer or whisk, beat until light and fluffy, about 2‑3 minutes.
Time: PT5M
Assemble Crepes
Spread a generous spoonful of the lemon‑cream cheese filling onto each crepe, place a line of blackberry compote, then roll or fold the crepe. Top with a few fresh blackberries and a drizzle of extra maple syrup if desired.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 250
- Protein
- 5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 35 g
- Fat
- 8 g
- Fiber
- 4 g
Dietary info: Vegan, Dairy‑Free, Vegetarian
Allergens: Gluten, Soy (if soy‑based cream cheese), Tree nuts (if almond milk)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of All-Purpose Flour: Bread Flour, Gluten‑Free Flour
- Instead of Whole Wheat Flour: Spelt Flour, Gluten‑Free Whole Grain Flour
- Instead of Baking Powder: Cream of Tartar
- Instead of Ground Cardamom: Ground Cinnamon (less aromatic)
- Instead of Plant‑Based Milk: Dairy Milk, Soy Milk
- Instead of Maple Syrup: Agave Nectar, Honey (not vegan)
- Instead of Vanilla Extract: Vanilla Bean Paste
- Instead of Neutral Oil: Melted Coconut Oil
- Instead of Sparkling Water: Club Soda
- Instead of Frozen Blackberries: Frozen Raspberries, Fresh Blackberries (use more)
- Instead of Maple Syrup: Honey (not vegan)
- Instead of Tapioca Starch: Cornstarch, Arrowroot Powder
- Instead of Fresh Blackberries: Fresh Raspberries
- Instead of Plant‑Based Cream Cheese: Dairy Cream Cheese (not vegan), Vegan Cashew Cream Cheese
- Instead of Lemon Juice: Lime Juice
- Instead of Powdered Sugar: Granulated Sugar (blended)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Non‑Stick Skillet
- Spatula
- Saucepan
- Small Bowl
- Electric Mixer (optional)
- Plate for Serving
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Combine dry ingredients thoroughly to avoid lumps
- Rest the batter for a few minutes to hydrate the flour
- Cook crepes on a properly heated pan to achieve thin, flexible sheets
- Make the tapioca slurry separately to prevent lumps in the compote
- Thicken the compote just enough to coat the berries without becoming gelatinous
- Whip the cream cheese filling until airy but not over‑mixed
Chef Tips from the Video
- A pinch of ground cardamom gives the crepes a subtle Scandinavian aroma that pairs beautifully with the berries
- Using sparkling water instead of regular water creates ultra‑light crepes
- For extra shine on the compote, finish with a tiny drizzle of cold maple syrup just before serving
Troubleshooting
Batter is too thick
Add an extra tablespoon of plant‑based milk or sparkling water until the batter flows like thin cream.
Crepes tear when rolling
Ensure the pan is hot enough and the batter is very thin; cook each side just until set, not browned.
Compote is runny
Cook a little longer after adding the slurry or add an extra ½ tbsp of tapioca starch mixed with water.
Filling is too stiff
Add a splash of plant‑based milk and beat briefly to loosen.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store crepes, compote, and cream filling separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Crepes can be frozen individually between parchment sheets for up to 1 month; thaw before assembling.
Room temperature: Do not leave assembled crepes at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The crepe batter can be refrigerated overnight for even better texture
- Blackberry compote can be made up to 2 days ahead and reheated gently
- Lemon cream filling can be whipped ahead and kept chilled; give it a quick stir before using
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of crepes with blackberry and lemon filling in Scandinavian cuisine?
While crepes originated in France, the addition of cardamom and berry fillings reflects a Nordic twist that is common in Scandinavian breakfast traditions, where thin pancakes are often served with seasonal berries and citrus accents.
What are the traditional regional variations of berry‑filled crepes in Scandinavian countries?
In Sweden, "rårakor" are served with lingonberries; in Norway, cardamom‑spiced pancakes are paired with cloudberries. The blackberry‑lemon version is a modern, fusion take that honors those classic flavor pairings.
How is crepes with blackberry and lemon filling traditionally served in Scandinavia?
They are usually rolled or folded, dusted with powdered sugar, and accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a light berry compote, often enjoyed with coffee during brunch or special occasions like Mother’s Day.
What occasions or celebrations is this crepe dish associated with in Scandinavian culture?
Thin pancakes are a staple for festive mornings such as Midsummer, Christmas brunches, and family celebrations like Mother’s Day, where a sweet‑tart filling adds a celebratory touch.
What makes this crepe recipe special or unique in Scandinavian‑inspired cuisine?
The use of ground cardamom in the batter and a tangy lemon‑cream cheese filling creates a balance of spice, acidity, and sweetness that isn’t typical in classic French crêpes, giving it a distinct Nordic character.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making crepes with blackberry and lemon filling?
Common errors include a batter that’s too thick, an insufficiently hot pan leading to thick crepes, adding the tapioca slurry directly into the hot compote (causing lumps), and over‑whipping the cream cheese filling which can become grainy.
Why does this recipe use sparkling water in the crepe batter instead of regular water?
Sparkling water adds carbonation, which creates tiny air pockets in the batter, resulting in lighter, more tender crepes that roll easily without tearing.
Can I make the blackberry compote ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, the compote can be prepared up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat over low heat before serving, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the blackberry compote is done?
The compote should be glossy, with the berries softened but still holding shape, and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon without running off the crepe.
How do I know when the crepes are done cooking?
A crepe is done when the edges start to lift from the pan and the surface is no longer wet; a quick flip should show a lightly golden underside without browning.
What does the YouTube channel Chef Ani specialize in?
Chef Ani’s YouTube channel focuses on approachable, plant‑based and family‑friendly recipes with occasional cultural twists, offering step‑by‑step tutorials for home cooks of all skill levels.
How does the YouTube channel Chef Ani’s approach to Scandinavian‑inspired cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Chef Ani blends traditional Scandinavian flavors like cardamom and berry fillings with modern vegan ingredients, emphasizing simplicity, visual appeal, and seasonal celebrations, which sets her apart from channels that stick strictly to classic or purely modern styles.
Last updated: August 24, 2026






