LEMON ZEST CREPE/ ENGLISH PANCAKE

LEMON ZEST CREPE/ ENGLISH PANCAKE is a easy French recipe that serves 4. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by LIGS KITCHEN on YouTube.

Prep: 7 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 22 min

Cost: $1.45 total, $0.36 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
  • 1.5 cups Milk (whole milk, room temperature)
  • 2 large Eggs (room temperature, lightly whisked)
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (finely grated from a fresh lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted and cooled slightly)

Instructions

  1. Whisk the Eggs

    Crack the eggs into a mixing bowl and whisk until the yolks and whites are fully combined and slightly frothy.

    Time: PT1M

  2. Combine Eggs with Milk

    Gradually pour the milk into the whisked eggs, stirring continuously to avoid curdling.

    Time: PT1M

  3. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a separate bowl, combine the sifted flour and granulated sugar. Stir until evenly distributed.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Add Lemon Zest

    Stir the freshly grated lemon zest into the dry flour‑sugar mixture.

    Time: PT0.5M

  5. Incorporate Melted Butter

    Pour the melted butter into the dry mixture and whisk until just combined.

    Time: PT0.5M

  6. Create the Batter

    Slowly add the milk‑egg liquid to the dry mixture, stirring continuously. Continue until the batter is smooth, glossy, and the consistency of thin heavy cream.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Heat the Pan

    Place the non‑stick skillet over medium heat and let it warm for about a minute. Lightly brush with a tiny amount of butter or oil.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: Medium heat (≈350°F / 175°C)

  8. Cook the Crepes

    Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter into the center of the pan, swirling quickly to spread it thinly and evenly. Cook for 30‑45 seconds until the edges lift and the underside is lightly golden, then flip and cook the other side for another 20‑30 seconds.

    Time: PT4M

    Temperature: Medium heat (≈350°F / 175°C)

  9. Serve or Store

    Stack the cooked crepes on a plate, covering loosely with foil to keep warm. Serve immediately with desired toppings or let them cool before storing.

    Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
120
Protein
3 g
Carbohydrates
15 g
Fat
5 g
Fiber
0.5 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Contains dairy, Contains gluten

Allergens: Eggs, Milk, Wheat, Butter

Last updated: April 11, 2026

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LEMON ZEST CREPE/ ENGLISH PANCAKE

Recipe by LIGS KITCHEN

Light, thin French-style crepes infused with fresh lemon zest. This quick and easy recipe from LIGS KITCHEN uses basic pantry staples—flour, milk, eggs, sugar, butter, and lemon zest—to create a fragrant breakfast or dessert that can be topped with fruit, jam, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

EasyFrenchServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
7m
Prep
4m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
21m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$1.45
Total cost
$0.36
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Whisk eggs until fully combined
  • Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients to avoid lumps
  • Achieve a light, glossy batter consistency
  • Cook each crepe just until lightly golden on both sides

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot skillet with a mitt to avoid burns.
  • Melted butter can be hot; let it cool slightly before adding to the batter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of lemon zest crepes in French cuisine?

A

Crepes originated in Brittany, a region of north‑west France, where they have been a staple since the Middle Ages. Adding lemon zest is a modern twist that highlights the French love for bright citrus flavors, especially in spring and summer desserts.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of crepes in French cuisine?

A

In Brittany, savory buckwheat galettes are popular, while sweet crêpes suzette, flambéed with orange liqueur, are a classic dessert. Lemon‑zested crepes are a contemporary sweet variation often served with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar.

cultural
Q

How are lemon zest crepes traditionally served in France?

A

They are typically folded or rolled and topped with fruit preserves, fresh berries, whipped cream, or simply a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of sugar. In cafés, they may be served with a side of café au lait.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations are crepes associated with in French culture?

A

Crepes are a staple for Candlemas (La Chandeleur) on February 2nd, a day traditionally celebrated by making and sharing crepes. They are also enjoyed year‑round for breakfast, brunch, or as a light dessert.

cultural
Q

What other French dishes pair well with lemon zest crepes?

A

Pair them with a fresh fruit salad, a dollop of vanilla‑flavored Greek yogurt, or a glass of chilled sparkling wine such as Crémant for a balanced meal.

cultural
Q

What makes lemon zest crepes special compared to regular sweet crepes?

A

The addition of fresh lemon zest adds a bright, aromatic citrus note that cuts through the richness of butter and sugar, giving the crepes a light, refreshing flavor profile that feels both classic and contemporary.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making lemon zest crepes?

A

Common errors include over‑mixing the batter (which creates gluten and makes crepes tough), using a pan that is not hot enough (causing sticking), and cooking the crepes too long, which dries them out.

technical
Q

Why does this lemon zest crepe recipe use melted butter instead of oil?

A

Melted butter adds richness and a subtle buttery flavor that complements the lemon zest, while still allowing the batter to stay thin. Oil would work but would lack the characteristic French buttery taste.

technical
Q

Can I make lemon zest crepes ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes, you can prepare the batter up to 30 minutes in advance and keep it at room temperature. Cooked crepes can be stacked with parchment paper and stored in the refrigerator for 2 days or frozen for up to a month; reheat gently before serving.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel LIGS KITCHEN specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel LIGS KITCHEN focuses on quick, home‑cooked recipes that highlight simple techniques and everyday ingredients, often adding a fresh twist to classic dishes.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel LIGS KITCHEN's approach to French cooking differ from other French cooking channels?

A

LIGS KITCHEN emphasizes minimal equipment, short prep times, and clear step‑by‑step narration, making classic French dishes like crepes accessible to beginners, whereas many other channels focus on elaborate techniques or professional‑level presentations.

channel

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