Polish Naleśniki 🥞
These Polish Naleśniki are delicate, thin crepes that can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients. Whether you’re rolling them up with fresh fruit and whipped cream for dessert or stuffing them with cheese, mushrooms, or meats for a hearty meal, naleśniki are versatile, easy to make, and utterly delicious. They’re a beloved staple in Polish cuisine and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Let’s dive into how to make these light and fluffy crepes step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatile : Perfect for sweet fillings like jam, fruit, and Nutella, or savory options like cheese, spinach, or ham.
- Easy & Quick : Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this recipe beginner-friendly.
- Customizable : Fill them however you like to suit your taste or occasion.
- Make-Ahead Friendly : Prepare the batter ahead of time or freeze cooked crepes for later use.
- Cultural Delight : A taste of traditional Polish cuisine that’s loved worldwide.
Ingredients
(Makes 8–10 crepes)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole milk works best )
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, omit for savory crepes )
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter , melted (plus extra for cooking )
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour , eggs , milk , water , sugar (if using ), and salt until smooth. The batter should be thin and pourable, similar to pancake batter.
- Tip : For extra smoothness, strain the batter through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
- Stir in the melted butter until fully incorporated. Let the batter rest for 10–15 minutes at room temperature to allow the flour to hydrate and the gluten to relax.
Step 2: Cook the Crepes
- Heat a nonstick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat. Lightly grease the pan with a small amount of butter or oil.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the center of the pan. Quickly tilt and swirl the pan to spread the batter into a thin, even layer.
- Tip : Use a ladle or measuring cup to pour the batter for consistency.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes , or until the edges lift easily and the bottom is lightly golden. Flip the crepe using a spatula or your fingers and cook for an additional 30–60 seconds on the other side.
- Transfer the cooked crepe to a plate and repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the crepes as you go.
Step 3: Fill and Serve
- Sweet Option : Spread Nutella, jam, or honey over the crepes, then add fresh fruit (like strawberries, bananas, or blueberries) and a dollop of whipped cream. Roll or fold into quarters.
- Savory Option : Fill with grated cheese, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, ham, or scrambled eggs. Fold into halves or roll tightly, then serve warm.
- Serve immediately with your favorite toppings or accompaniments.
Tips for Success
- Thin Batter : If the batter seems too thick, add a splash of milk or water to thin it out.
- Nonstick Pan : A good nonstick skillet or crepe pan ensures the crepes won’t tear while cooking.
- Rest the Batter : Allowing the batter to rest improves the texture of the crepes, making them lighter and more pliable.
- Storage : Store cooked crepes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- Freeze for Later : Layer the cooled crepes between sheets of parchment paper, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 1 month . Thaw before reheating.
Perfect Pairings
These Polish Naleśniki pair beautifully with:
- Sweet Fillings : Fresh berries, Nutella, honey, powdered sugar, or whipped cream.
- Savory Fillings : Grated cheese, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, ham, or scrambled eggs.
- Beverages : Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for sweet crepes, or a cold glass of milk or sparkling water for savory versions.
Nutritional Information (Per Crepe, Approx.)
(Based on 10 crepes without filling)
- Calories : ~90 kcal
- Protein : ~3g
- Carbohydrates : ~10g
- Fat : ~4g
- Fiber : ~0g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
These Polish Naleśniki are a versatile and delicious canvas for both sweet and savory creations. Whether you’re enjoying them as a light breakfast, a decadent dessert, or a hearty meal, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings. The thin, delicate crepes are easy to make and endlessly customizable, making them a perfect dish for any occasion.
The best part? They’re simple enough for everyday meals but special enough to impress guests. So grab your skillet, whip up that batter, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to fill as it is to eat.
