Learn how to make homemade crepes with pancake mix. It's a simple, no-fuss recipe that turns a pantry staple into something impressive!

In case you're wondering, great crepes are possible with that box of pancake mix sitting in your pantry! Whether you have too much pancake mix on hand and can only eat so many pancakes, ran out of all purpose flour, or are just looking for a shortcut, this is a fantastic way to make crepes. 

You may have already come across my other ways of using pancake mix like in my pancake mix coffee cake or my peanut butter cookies, pancake mix is truly one of the most underrated ingredients in your pantry, and this easy crepe recipe is the proof.

The main difference between pancake batter and crepe batter is that pancake batter has a leavening agent (baking powder/soda) to make it puff up. It's also thicker so it stays fluffy and cake-like.

Crepe batter is thin, spreads flat, and is delicate and pliable after cooking. To turn your pancake mix into a crepe batter, we're going to add more liquid to thin it out and dilute the leavening agent.

This gives you that classic paper-thin crepe without any extra ingredients. And as with all crepe recipes, you don't even need a special crepe pan. 

If you want to go the traditional route, check out my classic French crepes or chocolate crepe recipe for a from-scratch version. For an easy pancake shortcut, you may also want to try my sheet pan pancakes.

Ingredients for Pancake Mix Crepes

• Pancake mix: This recipe works with most brands, though keep in mind that ingredients can vary slightly from mix to mix, which may affect the consistency of your batter.
• Milk: Helps thin the batter down to that pourable, crepe-ready consistency. Whole milk gives the richest result, but any milk you have on hand will work.
• Eggs: Give the crepes structure and that soft, pliable texture that makes them easy to roll or fold without tearing.
• Unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and flavor, and helps keep the crepes from sticking. Using unsalted lets you control the saltiness, especially since pancake mixes vary in how much salt they already contain.
• Vanilla extract (optional): A small amount adds a subtle warmth that's lovely for sweet crepes. Skip it if you're going the savory route.

How to Make Pancake Mix Crepes:

Start by adding the milk and eggs to a blender and mixing briefly. For the smoothest batter, try to have your eggs and milk at room temperature before you begin.

Add the pancake mix, melted butter, and vanilla extract and blend until completely smooth. If you don't have a blender, a whisk works too as long as you put in a little extra effort to get the lumps out.

Once your batter is mixed, transfer it to a bowl or container and let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes to an hour. It's best to strain it through a fine mesh sieve when you transfer to make sure there are no lumps.

If you want to get ahead, you can leave it in the refrigerator overnight. This resting time allows the batter to relax and the leavening agent to settle, giving you more tender, even crepes.

When you're ready to cook, preheat a nonstick skillet over low to medium heat and brush it with butter or clarified butter. Pour a small amount of batter into the center of the pan and immediately swirl the pan in a circular motion to spread the batter all the way to the edge of the pan.

The amount of batter you use will depend on the diameter of the bottom of your pan. I use about two tablespoons for my 8 inch non-stick pan and just under a ¼ cup for my 10 inch pan.

Once the top looks dry and the edges just start to brown, it's time to flip. Cook the second side for another 30 seconds, then remove from the pan.

Brush the pan with butter again before each crepe and stack your finished crepes on a plate as you go. It helps to place a small piece of parchment between each cooked crepe to prevent sticking. 

Tips and Notes

• Batter consistency: Your batter should be thin and pourable, almost like heavy cream. Since pancake mixes vary by brand, add extra milk a tablespoon at a time until it flows easily.
• Pan temperature: Medium to low heat is your sweet spot. If the batter sets before you can swirl it, your pan is too hot. If the crepe looks pale and slow to set, nudge the heat up slightly. Give yourself a crepe or two to calibrate. Very often the first crepe may not turn out right. 
• Flipping: Use a very thin spatula to flip the crepe. Loosen the edge all around before flipping. 
• Making ahead: The batter can be made the night before and stored in the refrigerator. Finished crepes store well too - see the storage section below.
• Clarified butter: Regular butter works fine, but clarified butter won't burn as easily and gives you more consistent results crepe after crepe. 
• Skip the protein mixes: Protein-based mixes like Kodiak Cakes don't work well here. The higher protein content makes it difficult to achieve that thin, delicate texture. Stick to a standard pancake mix for best results. I used Krusteaz Buttermilk Pancake Mix and it worked perfectly. 

Filling Ideas for Pancake Mix Crepes

Sweet Fillings: Crepes are a perfect canvas for sweet fillings. Try any combination of fresh fruit, Nutella and banana, or fresh berries with whipped cream. For something simple, a dusting of powdered sugar with a drizzle of maple syrup never disappoints.

If you're a chocolate lover, drizzle with a homemade chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat. You can even go all out and layer them into a stunning crepe cake!

Savory Fillings:  Crepes work just as beautifully on the savory side. Fill them with cheese and herbs, sautéed vegetables, or even eggs for a satisfying meal any time of day. Check out my savory buckwheat crepes for more savory inspiration.

Storage

These crepes can be stored just like regular crepes. Separate the crepes with pieces of parchment paper and wrap the stack tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for 1-2 days or in the freezer for up to 1 month.

From dessert crepes drizzled with chocolate sauce to savory crepes packed with your favorite fillings, this easy recipe proves that pancake mix is so much more than a breakfast shortcut. Give these easy pancake mix crepes a try and you may never go back to measuring flour again!