Welcome to the delightful world of Crepe Rolls with Cheese! Imagine a delicate, golden crepe, perfectly pan-fried to a subtle crisp, yielding to a warm, gooey, savory cheese filling. These aren’t just any crepes; they’re an irresistible fusion of comfort food and elegant appetizer, making them an ideal choice for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated dinner party, looking for a unique brunch item, or simply craving a satisfying snack, these cheese filled crepes appetizer are guaranteed to impress. This comprehensive guide will walk you through creating a foolproof savory crepe recipe from scratch, share expert tips for success, explore delicious variations, and suggest the perfect dipping sauce for savory crepes.
Why This Crepe Rolls with Cheese Recipe Works
- Crowd-Pleasing: These savory treats are a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. Their crispy exterior and cheesy interior are universally loved.
- Surprisingly Easy: Don’t be intimidated by crepes! We break down the process into simple, manageable steps, making how to make crepe rolls approachable for any home cook.
- Customizable: The filling and dipping sauces can be easily adapted to your taste, allowing for endless creative possibilities.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The perfect make-ahead party food, allowing you to prep components in advance for stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting perfect Crepe Rolls with Cheese starts with fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create both the delicate crepes and the luscious cheese filling.
For the Savory Crepes:
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) water
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, plus more for cooking
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: Pinch of black pepper or finely chopped fresh herbs for a more robust savory crepe batter recipe
For the Cheese Filling:
- 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (113g) shredded mozzarella or a blend of melting cheeses (cheddar, provolone) for perfect mozzarella crepe rolls
- 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions or chives, essential for rolled crepes with cheese and green onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Pan-Frying:
- 2-3 tablespoons neutral oil (like canola or vegetable oil) or more butter
Essential Equipment
Having the right tools makes the process of preparing your Crepe Rolls with Cheese smooth and enjoyable. You likely have most of these in your kitchen already!
- Blender or Whisk and Mixing Bowl: For a smooth, lump-free crepe batter.
- 8-10 inch Non-stick Skillet or Crepe Pan: Crucial for cooking thin, even crepes.
- Ladle: For portioning batter into the pan.
- Spatula (thin, flexible one is best): For flipping delicate crepes.
- Small bowl: For preparing the creamy cheese filling.
- Large skillet: For pan-frying the assembled rolls to golden perfection.
How to Make Crepe Rolls with Cheese: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps closely to create delicious, crispy Crepe Rolls with Cheese from scratch. This detailed guide ensures success even for first-time crepe makers.
Step 1: Make the Crepe Batter
Creating the perfect savory crepe batter recipe is key. In a blender, combine flour, eggs, milk, water, melted butter, and salt. Blend until completely smooth, about 30 seconds. If mixing by hand, whisk eggs and milk, then gradually add flour and salt, whisking until smooth. Stir in water and melted butter. Crucially, let the batter rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or ideally an hour (or even overnight in the fridge). This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in tender, pliable crepes that won’t tear easily.
Step 2: Cook the Crepes
Heat your non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Lightly grease it with butter or oil, wiping off excess with a paper towel. Once hot (a drop of water should sizzle), pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the center of the pan. Immediately tilt and swirl the pan to spread the batter thinly and evenly to the edges. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges are golden and the top looks set. Carefully slide a thin spatula under the crepe and flip it. Cook for another 30-60 seconds. Stack cooked crepes on a plate, covering them with a clean kitchen towel or foil to keep them warm and soft, preventing them from drying out or sticking together.
Step 3: Prepare the Savory Cheese Filling
While your crepes are cooling slightly, prepare the irresistible cream cheese crepe filling. In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella (or your preferred blend), grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly with a spoon or spatula until all ingredients are well-combined and the mixture is smooth and spreadable.
Step 4: Assemble and Roll the Crepes
Lay one cooked crepe flat on a clean surface. Take about 1-2 tablespoons of the cheese filling and spread a thin, even layer over the entire surface of the crepe, leaving a small border at the edges. To achieve the perfect roll, fold in the sides of the crepe by about 1/2 inch. Then, starting from the edge closest to you, roll the crepe tightly upwards, like you would a burrito or a spring roll. This technique ensures a secure roll and keeps the filling neatly tucked inside, creating beautiful homemade crepe rolls.
Step 5: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat 2-3 tablespoons of neutral oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place your assembled Crepe Rolls with Cheese into the pan, seam-side down first to help seal them. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and deliciously crispy. The cheese inside should be warm and gooey. Transfer the pan-fried cheese rolls to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheese Crepe Rolls
Mastering these tips will elevate your Crepe Rolls with Cheese from good to absolutely unforgettable.
- Achieve the Perfect Batter Consistency: Your crepe batter should be like heavy cream. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or water; if too thin, whisk in a tablespoon of flour. This ensures thin, delicate crepes.
- Master the Pan Temperature: This is the secret to non-stick, perfectly cooked crepes. Medium-low heat is usually ideal. Too hot, they burn; too cool, they’ll be tough.
- Don’t Overfill: Use just enough filling to flavor without it oozing out during frying. A thin, even layer is perfect.
- Roll Tightly: A tight roll ensures the filling stays inside and the roll holds its shape beautifully during frying, preventing any cheesy explosions. This is key for how to roll crepes effectively.
- Fry Seam-Side Down First: This initial frying helps to seal the crepe roll, ensuring it holds together perfectly as it crisps.
- Serve Immediately: For maximum crispiness and gooey cheese appeal, these crispy cheese crepes are best enjoyed hot right out of the pan.
Delicious Variations and Customizations
The beauty of these Crepe Rolls with Cheese lies in their versatility. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your fillings!
Cheese Variations:
- Italian Style: Combine creamy ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan with a pinch of Italian herbs like oregano and basil. Serve with marinara.
- Spicy Mexican: Add shredded Pepper Jack cheese for a kick, along with finely chopped cilantro and a dash of cumin. A hint of green chili could also be delicious.
- Smoky & Rich: Use smoked Gouda and sharp cheddar for a deep, complex flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the delicate crepe.
Add-in Ideas:
These savory additions can turn your crepe filling ideas savory into a complete meal or a more substantial appetizer.
- Meats: Fold in finely diced cooked ham, crispy bacon bits, or shredded rotisserie chicken to the cheese filling for extra protein and flavor.
- Vegetables: Mix in sautéed spinach (ensure it’s well-drained to prevent sogginess), finely chopped mushrooms, or sweet caramelized onions for added depth and texture.
- Herbs: Experiment with fresh parsley, dill, thyme, or chives beyond just green onion to enhance the aromatic profile of your cheese filled crepes.
Dipping Sauces to Elevate Your Crepe Rolls
A complementary dipping sauce can truly elevate the experience of eating your Crepe Rolls with Cheese, adding another layer of flavor and moisture. Here are a few favorites:
- Simple Soy-Ginger Dipping Sauce: Whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. This Asian-inspired sauce adds a savory, umami kick.
- Creamy Herb Dip: Combine 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt with 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill, 1 tablespoon chopped chives, a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and pepper. A refreshing contrast to the rich cheese.
- Classic Marinara Sauce: Warm up your favorite jarred or homemade marinara sauce. This is a fantastic option, especially if you’ve opted for Italian-style cheese fillings, turning your cheesy crepe recipe savory into a mini Italian delight.
Serving and Storing Instructions
Ensure your Crepe Rolls with Cheese are enjoyed at their best and can be savored for later.
How to Serve:
Arrange the golden pan-fried cheese rolls beautifully on a platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra fresh green onions or chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately with a selection of your favorite dipping sauces on the side. For a more elegant presentation, you can cut the rolls in half on a bias before serving.
Make-Ahead and Storage:
- Making Ahead: The crepes can be cooked up to 2 days in advance and stored, covered, in the refrigerator. The cheese filling can also be prepared 1 day ahead. For ultimate convenience, you can even fully assemble the crepe rolls and refrigerate them (covered) for up to 24 hours before their final pan-frying step. This makes them excellent make-ahead party food.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover homemade crepe rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, either freeze unfried assembled rolls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag (fry from frozen, adding a few minutes to cook time). Or, freeze cooked rolls similarly, reheating in the oven or air fryer.
- Reheating: For best results and to regain their crispiness, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 6-8 minutes, until heated through and crispy. Avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What’s the best kind of cheese for crepe rolls?
The best kind of cheese for Crepe Rolls with Cheese is often a combination. A good melting cheese like mozzarella or provolone provides that desirable ‘cheese pull’, while a flavorful cheese such as sharp cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère adds depth. Cream cheese is excellent for creating a smooth, creamy base that binds the filling together beautifully. Our recipe uses a fantastic blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
Can I use store-bought crepes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using store-bought crepes is a fantastic time-saver and makes this an even easier easy party appetizer recipe. Just be sure to choose plain or savory crepes, not the sweet varieties, to ensure they complement the cheesy filling.
What is the difference between a crepe and a blintz?
While similar in appearance, crepes and blintzes have key differences. A crepe is a very thin, French-style pancake that can be sweet or savory and served in various ways (rolled, folded, stacked). A blintz is a specific type of crepe, typically made with an unleavened batter, usually filled with a sweet or savory cheese mixture (often farmer’s cheese), folded into a parcel, and then always fried or baked after filling. The cheese blintz recipe has distinct Jewish culinary roots, whereas crepes are broadly international.
How do I keep my crepe rolls from getting soggy?
The key to preventing soggy Crepe Rolls with Cheese is the final pan-frying step, which creates a crispy, golden exterior that acts as a barrier. To maintain crispiness, serve them immediately after frying. Also, avoid covering them while they are hot, as trapped steam can make them soft. For reheating, use an oven or air fryer, not a microwave, which will invariably result in a soggy texture.
Can I make these crepe rolls in an air fryer?
Yes, you can! To air fry your Crepe Rolls with Cheese, lightly spray the assembled rolls with a neutral oil. Arrange them in a single layer in your air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Air fry at around 375°F (190°C) for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until they are golden brown and wonderfully crispy.
Conclusion
From their delicate, crispy exterior to their warm, gooey, and savory cheese heart, these Crepe Rolls with Cheese are more than just an appetizer—they’re an experience. Easy to make, incredibly versatile, and perfect as an easy party appetizer recipe or a delightful brunch item, they are guaranteed to become a new favorite. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress. Don’t forget to share your creations and any delicious variations in the comments below!
For more daily recipes and tips, follow us on Facebook!
Click here to join our community!