Strawberry Nutella Crepe Cake

There’s something undeniably magical about layers upon layers of delicate crepes, each one whisper-thin, stacked high with rich Nutella and juicy strawberries peeking through. This Strawberry Nutella Crepe Cake is a showstopper that feels elegant yet approachable, like a dessert you’d expect in a charming Parisian café but can lovingly craft right in your own kitchen. With every slice, ribbons of chocolate-hazelnut and bursts of bright berry flavor create a moment that feels indulgent yet light, a balance that keeps you coming back for more.

Behind the Recipe

The idea of stacking crepes into a cake comes from my fondest memories of leisurely weekend breakfasts. Growing up, crepes were always a treat, something that brought the family to the table with eager smiles. Adding Nutella turned it into an indulgent delight, and strawberries, fresh and ruby red, brought that necessary brightness to cut through the richness. It’s a recipe born out of nostalgia, the kind that connects simple ingredients with joyful moments.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Crepe cakes, or “mille crepe” as the French call them, originated in France, with “mille” meaning thousand, referencing the many thin layers. They have become popular worldwide, often customized with different creams, chocolates, and fruits. While the classic French versions lean on pastry cream, this Strawberry Nutella twist gives it a playful Italian-French crossover flair, marrying Nutella’s creamy hazelnut notes with strawberries’ natural sweetness.

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Nutella Crepe Cake

When you take your first bite, you’ll quickly see why this cake is worth every step.

Versatile: Perfect for brunch, birthdays, or as a stunning dessert centerpiece.
Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples like eggs, flour, and milk, plus just a jar of Nutella and fresh strawberries.
Quick and Easy: Crepes cook fast, and once you get into a rhythm, the process becomes almost meditative.
Customizable: Swap in different fruits, spreads, or flavored creams for endless variations.
Crowd-Pleasing: Its visual appeal alone will earn a round of applause at any table.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Crepes and filling can be prepared ahead, then assembled when ready to serve.
Great for Leftovers: A slice the next day tastes even better as the flavors mingle together.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Mastering this recipe is about precision and patience, but I’ve got some tricks up my sleeve to make it seamless:

1. Let the crepe batter rest for at least 30 minutes before cooking, this ensures a smoother, more elastic texture.
2. Use a nonstick pan and just a light brush of butter, too much and your crepes will fry instead of glide.
3. Keep crepes thin by swirling the batter quickly across the pan, thinness is key to elegance here.
4. Spread Nutella while crepes are slightly warm so it melts just enough to glide smoothly.
5. Chill the finished cake for at least 2 hours before slicing, this helps the layers set beautifully.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To bring this masterpiece together, you don’t need much, just the right essentials:

• Nonstick Crepe Pan or Skillet: For cooking even, delicate crepes.
• Whisk: To blend the batter into a silky consistency.
• Ladle: For portioning just the right amount of batter each time.
• Offset Spatula: To spread Nutella and cream smoothly.
• Mixing Bowls: For preparing batter and whipped cream.
• Sharp Knife: To slice clean layers once assembled.

Ingredients in Strawberry Nutella Crepe Cake

The beauty of this cake lies in the harmony of simple ingredients working together:

1. All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup for structure and softness in the crepes.
2. Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons to give the crepes a delicate sweetness.
3. Salt: 1/4 teaspoon to balance and enhance flavors.
4. Eggs: 3 large for richness and binding the batter.
5. Whole Milk: 2 cups for a silky, pourable consistency.
6. Unsalted Butter: 3 tablespoons, melted to keep crepes tender and slightly golden.
7. Nutella: 1 1/2 cups for the luscious chocolate-hazelnut filling.
8. Heavy Whipping Cream: 1 cup whipped to soft peaks for a lighter layer.
9. Fresh Strawberries: 2 cups, sliced thinly for bursts of bright flavor in every bite.
10. Powdered Sugar: for dusting as a finishing touch.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes the pantry calls for a little flexibility, and this recipe allows for it.

• Nutella: Alternative, any chocolate-hazelnut spread.
• Whole Milk: Alternative, almond milk or oat milk for a lighter version.
• Heavy Cream: Alternative, coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Strawberries: Alternative, raspberries or sliced bananas.

Ingredient Spotlight

Strawberries: These berries bring a pop of freshness and juicy contrast to the creamy, chocolatey layers, preventing the cake from feeling too heavy.

Nutella: The heart of this recipe, Nutella delivers smooth richness with that irresistible nutty cocoa flavor.

Instructions for Making Strawberry Nutella Crepe Cake

This recipe comes together like a fun, hands-on art project, each step building toward a beautiful final masterpiece.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Warm your nonstick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat, lightly brushing with butter.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. In another, whisk eggs and milk. Slowly add wet to dry, whisking until smooth. Stir in melted butter. Let batter rest for 30 minutes.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Using a ladle, pour a thin layer of batter into the pan, swirling quickly to cover. Cook for about 1 minute, flip, then cook 30 seconds more. Repeat until all crepes are cooked, stacking with parchment between them.
4. Assemble the Dish: Lay one crepe on a flat surface. Spread a thin layer of Nutella, add a few strawberry slices, and occasionally a spoon of whipped cream. Repeat layering until all crepes are used.
5. Cook to Perfection: No additional cooking needed, but allow the cake to chill in the fridge for 2 hours to firm.
6. Finishing Touches: Dust with powdered sugar, garnish with extra strawberries, or drizzle with melted Nutella.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Slice carefully with a sharp knife and enjoy the cascade of layers.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The joy of this cake lies in contrasts. Each bite offers the silkiness of crepes, the creamy richness of Nutella, the airy lift of whipped cream, and the juicy burst of strawberries. Together, they create a flavor dance that’s indulgent yet balanced, with textures that melt and crunch in perfect harmony.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few small tweaks can make a big difference in your crepe cake adventure:

• Chill the crepes before assembling for easier stacking.
• Slice with a serrated knife for cleaner layers.
• Add a touch of vanilla extract to whipped cream for extra depth.

What to Avoid

Even seasoned bakers can stumble, so here’s how to sidestep common issues:

• Overfilling crepes, too much Nutella or cream makes slicing messy.
• Skipping resting time for batter, this leads to chewy, less delicate crepes.
• Using unripe strawberries, they lack sweetness and can throw off the balance.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10
Calories per serving: 340

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe rewards patience. You can cook the crepes a day ahead and store them in the fridge wrapped tightly. The entire cake can also be assembled a day before serving, and it tastes even better as the flavors meld. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freezing isn’t ideal due to strawberries, but without fruit, it can be frozen for up to a month.

How to Serve Strawberry Nutella Crepe Cake

This cake shines on its own, but you can elevate it even further. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on the side, drizzle with chocolate sauce, or pair with a scoop of vanilla gelato. For drinks, a cappuccino or chilled rosé makes a dreamy companion.

Creative Leftover Transformations

If you’re lucky enough to have slices left, turn them into:

• A breakfast parfait layered with yogurt.
• A frozen treat by chilling slices and serving semi-frozen.
• Bite-sized dessert squares for lunchbox surprises.

Additional Tips

Adding a few mint leaves on top gives freshness and color. If you want a flavor twist, sprinkle a little cocoa powder between layers or add a thin swipe of jam along with Nutella.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation is everything here. Dust lightly with powdered sugar, arrange fresh strawberries in a crown on top, and drizzle melted Nutella in artistic streaks. Serve it on a white cake stand to make the vibrant colors pop.

Variations to Try

• Berry Medley Crepe Cake: Swap strawberries for mixed berries like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.
• Banana Nutella Crepe Cake: Use sliced bananas for a sweeter, creamier pairing.
• Mocha Crepe Cake: Add espresso powder to the crepe batter and pair with Nutella for a coffee-chocolate dream.
• Coconut Cream Crepe Cake: Replace whipped cream with coconut cream for a tropical spin.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make the crepe batter the night before?

Yes, refrigerate it overnight, then give it a good whisk before cooking.

Q2: How thin should crepes be?

As thin as possible without tearing, they should almost be translucent.

Q3: Can I use store-bought crepes?

Yes, though homemade ones taste fresher and hold up better.

Q4: Do I need a crepe maker?

Not at all, a regular nonstick skillet works perfectly.

Q5: How do I prevent crepes from sticking?

Use a nonstick pan and brush lightly with butter between crepes.

Q6: Can I skip the whipped cream?

Yes, but it adds a nice lightness to balance the richness.

Q7: How long should I chill the cake?

At least 2 hours, overnight is even better.

Q8: Can I freeze the cake?

Not recommended with strawberries, but without fruit, yes.

Q9: What’s the best knife for slicing?

A sharp serrated knife ensures clean cuts.

Q10: How many crepes do I need?

About 20 to 25 crepes for a tall, impressive cake.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Nutella Crepe Cake is the kind of dessert that makes hearts skip a beat. It’s elegant yet playful, indulgent yet light, and truly a joy to create and share. Trust me, you’re going to love this one, and once you see those perfect layers, you’ll know every moment spent was worth it.

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