There’s just something magical about turning simple crepes into festive delights, and this Christmas Tree Crepes with Gingerbread Spiced Whipped Cream Recipe does exactly that. Imagine soft, thin crepes folded like little evergreen trees, topped with cozy gingerbread-spiced whipped cream—it’s a holiday treat that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning.
Jump to:
- Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients & Why They Work
- Make It Your Way
- Step-by-Step: How I Make Christmas Tree Crepes with Gingerbread Spiced Whipped Cream Recipe
- Top Tip
- How to Serve Christmas Tree Crepes with Gingerbread Spiced Whipped Cream Recipe
- Make Ahead and Storage
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Final Thoughts
- Christmas Tree Crepes with Gingerbread Spiced Whipped Cream Recipe
Why You'll Love This Recipe
I adore how this recipe elevates a humble breakfast staple into something truly special for the holidays. It’s not just about eating crepes; it’s about creating a little festive moment that brings smiles and compliments around the table.
- Warm festive flavors: The gingerbread spiced whipped cream adds a cozy, holiday twist that’s comforting and delicious.
- Simple and approachable: Despite the elegant look, the recipe is straightforward and perfect for home cooks at any skill level.
- Beautiful presentation: Folding the crepes into “Christmas trees” makes it fun and festive, perfect for entertaining or a special family breakfast.
- Versatile toppings: You get to personalize with fruits, Nutella, or any of your favorite spreads to suit your taste perfectly.
Ingredients & Why They Work
The magic in this recipe lies not just in how you put it together, but in the ingredients that blend seamlessly to give you soft crepes with a rich, warmly spiced whipped cream. Each ingredient has a role that ensures flavor, texture, and that signature holiday vibe.
- All-purpose flour: The base for tender but sturdy crepes that hold their shape when folded.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- Milk and water: Creating a smooth, thin batter perfect for thin crepes.
- Salt and sugar: Balance the flavors and add just a touch of sweetness.
- Salted butter: Brings flavor and helps keep crepes moist.
- Vanilla & almond extract: Provide subtle depth and that comforting aroma.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to fluffy perfection for the luscious topping.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream without gritty texture.
- Gingerbread spice: A festive blend that transforms your whipped cream into a holiday sensation.
Make It Your Way
One of my favorite things about this Christmas Tree Crepes with Gingerbread Spiced Whipped Cream Recipe is how easy it is to tweak to your preferences. Whether you're a classicist or want to shake things up, there’s room for personalization.
- Variation: I sometimes swap the Nutella drizzle for a smear of spiced apple butter—adds a fruity touch that pairs beautifully with the gingerbread whipped cream.
- Dietary tweaks: Use lactose-free milk alternatives or coconut cream to whip if you want a dairy-free version. The gingerbread spice still shines through.
- Extra festive flair: Try adding pomegranate arils or chopped pistachios on top for a pop of color and crunch.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Christmas Tree Crepes with Gingerbread Spiced Whipped Cream Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Your Batter to Silkiness
Start by mixing your flour and eggs in a large bowl. It’ll look like a rough dough at first—don’t panic! Slowly pour in your milk and water bit by bit, whisking continuously so you don’t get lumps. Trust me, taking your time here pays off. Finally, stir in the salt, sugar, melted butter, and extracts. Letting the batter rest for 10 minutes helps make the crepes tender and flexible, but if you’re eager, you can jump right in.
Step 2: Cook Your Crepes with Care
Heat up your crepe pan or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and lightly grease it. Pour about ¼ cup of batter in, tilting your pan in circles immediately to spread it thin and even. Cook until you see the edges lift and the bottom turns a light golden brown—usually 1-2 minutes. Flip carefully with a spatula and cook for another minute. Stack cooked crepes on a plate; they might seem fragile but handle gently and you’re good.
Step 3: Folding and Decorating into Christmas Trees
Once cooled slightly, drizzle each crepe with Nutella (or your choice of spread). Fold in half, then fold again into a quarter-circle to create little “tree” shapes. Arrange them overlapping on a plate, all pointing in the same direction. Gently lift the top flap on each and spoon in some luscious gingerbread spiced whipped cream. Scatter fresh raspberries and blueberries on top, and if you like, a dusting of powdered sugar to mimic snow.
Step 4: Whip Up That Gingerbread Spiced Cream
In a chilled bowl, beat your heavy cream on high speed until soft peaks start to form—that’s when it holds a gentle peak but isn’t stiff. Fold in powdered sugar, vanilla and almond extracts, and the signature gingerbread spice. Just combine until smooth, then pop back into the fridge until it’s time to serve. This whipped cream is the heart of the holiday flavor here.
Top Tip
I’ve learned that the texture and temperature of your batter and cream make all the difference in these crepes. Here are a few things to keep in mind to get them just right—because nobody wants rubbery or torn crepes!
- Batter Resting Time: Let the batter sit for at least 10 minutes before cooking. It relaxes the gluten and helps avoid tough crepes.
- Pan Temperature: Medium-high heat is perfect. Too hot, and your crepes burn; too cool, and they stick or cook unevenly.
- Whipping Cream Peaks: Stop mixing when medium peaks form to avoid butter-like texture. Keep it cold until serving for best fluffiness.
- Gentle Handling: When folding, be gentle. Crepes tear easily if you rush or fold aggressively.
How to Serve Christmas Tree Crepes with Gingerbread Spiced Whipped Cream Recipe
Garnishes
I love using fresh berries—especially raspberries and blueberries—they add a tart contrast and really pop against the creamy whipped topping. If you’re feeling fancy, a few edible gold flakes or a tiny sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy can elevate your presentation even more.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with a simple mixed greens salad if you’re serving it for brunch, or a warm spiced cider or coffee to keep the cozy vibes going. You can also serve alongside cinnamon-spiced roasted nuts or candied orange slices for extra holiday cheer.
Creative Ways to Present
One year, I layered the folded crepes on a wooden board shaped like a Christmas tree and scattered nuts and cranberries around for a stunning centerpiece. Another fun idea is piping the whipped cream into small rosettes along the edges and topping with tiny star-shaped sprinkles—you’ll impress your friends without extra hassle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover crepes keep nicely in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I like to tuck parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. Store the whipped cream separately to keep it fresh and fluffy.
Freezing
You can freeze plain crepes by stacking with parchment paper between each and wrapping tightly in plastic wrap, then freezing in a zip-top bag. When you want to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in a pan or microwave. Avoid freezing the whipped cream—it doesn’t thaw well.
Reheating
Reheat crepes by warming them on a non-stick skillet over low heat for about 30 seconds per side or wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds. This keeps them pliable without drying out. Add the whipped cream fresh just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Absolutely! Making a big batch of the gingerbread spice blend ahead means you’ll have it ready for other holiday recipes like oatmeal or hot cocoa. Store it airtight in a cool, dry place for up to one year.
If you don’t have almond extract, you can simply leave it out without sacrificing much in flavor. The vanilla and gingerbread spice carry the festive aroma well, so your crepes will still be delicious and comforting.
Yes, you can prepare the gingerbread spiced whipped cream a few hours ahead. Just keep it chilled in the refrigerator and give it a quick re-whisk if needed before serving to bring back some fluffiness.
The traditional recipe uses eggs and dairy, but you can adapt it by using plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flax or chia egg substitute. Just note the texture might differ slightly, but it’s a tasty and festive vegan treat!
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Tree Crepes with Gingerbread Spiced Whipped Cream Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings a little sparkle to holiday mornings without stress. It’s a recipe that invites you to slow down, enjoy the smells and tastes of the season, and share something beautiful and delicious with your loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try it and make your holiday breakfasts just as memorable!
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Christmas Tree Crepes with Gingerbread Spiced Whipped Cream Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in festive Christmas Tree Crepes with a delicate gingerbread spice whipped cream. These sweet crêpes are thin, tender, and layered with spiced whipped cream and fresh berries, making a perfect holiday breakfast or dessert with a French touch.
Ingredients
Sweet Crêpes
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (250g)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup water
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 4 Tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Gingerbread Spiced Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 Tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon gingerbread spice
Instructions
- Mix Batter: In a large bowl, whisk flour and eggs together until mostly combined. Slowly add milk and water in ¼ cup increments, whisking thoroughly each time to achieve a smooth batter. Stir in salt, sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and almond extract.
- Heat Pan: Heat a lightly oiled crêpe pan or medium frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook Crêpes: Pour ¼ cup batter into pan, swirling to cover in a thin layer. Cook for 2 minutes until bottom barely browns and surface turns matte. Flip carefully and cook an additional 1 minute. Transfer crepe to plate and repeat until all batter is used.
- Prepare Gingerbread Whipped Cream: Beat heavy cream on high speed until medium peaks form. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, almond extract, and gingerbread spice. Mix to incorporate and refrigerate until serving.
- Assemble Christmas Trees: Drizzle each crepe with Nutella if desired, fold in half, then in fourths to form a quarter circle. Layer crepes slightly offset on plate, gently lifting top flaps and spooning whipped cream inside. Top with raspberries and blueberries, dust with powdered sugar, and serve.
- Alternate Serving: Serve crepes hot with Nutella, fresh fruit, jams, apple pie filling, or sweetened whipped cream as preferred.
Notes
- To make your own gingerbread spice, combine 2 tablespoons cinnamon, 2 tablespoons ground ginger, 2 teaspoons ground allspice, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon ground cloves. Store airtight for up to 1 year.
- If making just enough gingerbread spice for this recipe, use ½ teaspoon each of cinnamon and ginger, ¼ teaspoon allspice, a pinch of nutmeg, and a smidgen of ground cloves.
- A dash is about ⅛ teaspoon, a pinch 1/16 teaspoon, and a smidgen 1/32 teaspoon, so eyeball spice quantities as needed.
- Use a non-stick skillet or crêpe pan for best results to prevent sticking.
- Folding crepes carefully prevents tears and helps create the Christmas tree effect.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
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