Crepe vs. Pancake: What's the Difference?
Edited by Janet White || By Harlon Moss || Updated on October 20, 2023
A crepe is a thin, delicate flatbread typically made with a runny batter; a pancake is a thicker, fluffier bread made from a leavened batter.
Key Differences
A crepe, originating from France, is known for its incredibly thin and delicate texture. In contrast, a pancake, commonly associated with American breakfasts, is thicker and fluffier.
Crepes often use a batter that's relatively liquid, ensuring a paper-thin result when spread on a hot surface. Pancakes, on the other hand, utilize a leavened batter, which gives them a rise and a spongy texture when cooked. Due to the thinness of crepes, they're frequently rolled or folded with fillings such as fruit, chocolate, or savory items.
Pancakes are usually stacked and topped with items like syrup, butter, or fruit. Another distinction between crepes and pancakes is the surface on which they're cooked.
Crepes often require a specialized flat pan or a crepe maker, while pancakes can be cooked on griddles or regular skillets.
Comparison Chart
Texture
Very thin and delicate.
Thicker and fluffier.
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Batter Consistency
Runny, without leavening agents.
Leavened, resulting in rise during cooking.
Serving Style
Often rolled or folded with fillings.
Typically stacked with toppings.
Origin
France.
Many cultures, but the fluffy version is American.
Cooking Surface
Specialized flat pan or crepe maker.
Griddles or regular skillets.
Crepe and Pancake Definitions
Crepe
A crepe is a thin, flat bread made from a liquid batter.
She ordered a chocolate-filled crepe for dessert.
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Pancake
Pancakes can be made in various sizes, from small silver dollars to plate-sized.
For the kids, she made tiny silver dollar pancakes.
Crepe
Crepes often serve as a canvas for a variety of ingredients due to their neutral taste.
The chef's specialty was a crepe filled with exotic fruits.
Pancake
In America, pancakes are a popular breakfast item, known for their fluffy texture.
Diners across the country often feature pancakes as a staple on their menu.
Crepe
Crepes can be both sweet and savory, depending on the filling.
For lunch, he chose a ham and cheese crepe.
Pancake
A pancake is a thick, flat bread made from leavened batter.
Sunday mornings in her home always started with a stack of pancakes.
Crepe
Originating in France, crepes are enjoyed worldwide with various adaptations.
While traveling in Paris, they learned the art of making the perfect crepe.
Pancake
Pancakes are traditionally served with syrup, butter, or fruit toppings.
He drizzled maple syrup over his blueberry pancakes.
Crepe
Crepes are typically cooked on a flat, specialized surface to achieve their signature thinness.
At the street fair, there was a vendor with a crepe station, drawing a crowd.
Pancake
Many cultures have their own version of pancakes, each with unique characteristics.
During her travels, she discovered that almost every culture has its own take on the pancake.
Crepe
A light soft thin fabric of silk, cotton, wool, or another fiber, with a crinkled surface. Also called crape.
Pancake
A thin cake made of batter that is poured onto a hot greased surface and cooked on both sides until brown. Also called flannel cake, flapjack, griddle cake, hotcake; also called regionally battercake.
FAQs
Which is thinner, a crepe or a pancake?
A crepe is much thinner than a pancake.
Is there a specific pan to cook crepes?
Crepes are often cooked on a specialized flat pan or crepe maker.
How does a pancake differ from a crepe?
A pancake is thicker and fluffier, made from a leavened batter, whereas a crepe is very thin and delicate.
Can crepes be savory?
Yes, crepes can be filled with both sweet and savory fillings.
What kind of batter is used for crepes?
Crepes use a thin, liquid batter without leavening agents.
Do pancakes have a leavening agent?
Yes, pancakes typically contain a leavening agent like baking powder to make them rise and become fluffy.
Are crepes French?
Yes, crepes originate from France, but they are now enjoyed worldwide.
What are common toppings for pancakes?
Pancakes are frequently topped with syrup, butter, fruits, or whipped cream.
Are there variations of crepes in other cultures?
Yes, while crepes originate from France, many cultures have their own versions of thin flatbreads.
Are there different types of pancakes?
Yes, many cultures have their own versions of pancakes, differing in ingredients and preparation methods.
Which is more versatile, crepe or pancake?
Both are versatile, but crepes, due to their neutral base, can accommodate a wider range of fillings, from sweet to savory.
Can pancakes be made without eggs?
Yes, there are eggless pancake recipes that use alternatives like bananas or yogurt.
Do crepes have a filling?
While crepes can be eaten plain, they are often filled with various ingredients, both sweet and savory.
Are pancakes and flapjacks the same?
In the U.S., flapjacks are often synonymous with pancakes, but in the UK, flapjacks refer to a baked oat bar.
What is a crepe?
A crepe is a very thin and delicate flat bread, originating from France, typically made from a runny batter.
Are pancakes typically sweet?
Pancakes themselves are mildly sweet, but they are often served with sweet toppings like syrup or fruit.
Can pancakes be made on a regular skillet?
Yes, pancakes can be cooked on griddles or regular skillets.
How are crepes typically served?
Crepes are often rolled or folded with various fillings inside.
Can crepes be made at home?
Absolutely, with a good batter and a flat cooking surface, crepes can be made at home.
What's the key to a fluffy pancake?
Using a leavened batter and not over-mixing are crucial for fluffy pancakes.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
