Crepes are a wonderfully delicious, thin, pancake-like food that is versatile and made in several different ways and with different fillings.
Of course, it doesn’t matter what you’re using your crepe batter for. You want to know how long does crepe batter lasts and how to get the best quality from your batter.
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How Long Does Crepe Batter Last?
Crepe batter stays fresh for up to 2 hours at normal room temperature. In the fridge, crepe batter can last for up to 3 days; when frozen, crepe batter can last up to 3 months.
At Room Temperature
Temperature is the key component in how long crepe batter can last. Typically, crepe batter can last only up to 2 hours at room temperature. This is because crepe batter is made with eggs and milk.
If you have perishable items such as eggs or milk outside the fridge and left at room temperature for more than 2 hours, they can be susceptible to growing bacteria and contaminating your food. This is why even if the batter is at rest, it’s best to refrigerate it.
In The Fridge
The Crepe batter needs to rest before you can use it. You can let it rest for as little as 30 minutes or as long as 2 hours. If you don’t plan on using it within this time frame, you must refrigerate it!
Remember, if your batter is left out for more than 2 hours, bacteria can start to grow. This is why it’s my own opinion that even if you’re just letting it rest, it should at least be stored in the fridge.
If you store your batter in the fridge while it’s resting, you play things safe, and the quality of your batter is not compromised.
When you refrigerate, your batter can last up to 3 days. When storing it, make sure you keep it in an airtight or covered container. Of course, airtight containers will mean a better-quality batter!
In The Freezer
I love making my batter ahead of time and storing it in the freezer. This can make things so much easier the next morning when I’m making breakfast or if we’re having breakfast at dinner!
Since batter can last up to 3 months in the freezer, I like making huge batches of it and portioning it out to store.
I’ve tried several ways to store my crepe batter, but my absolute favorite is freezer bags. When you remove your crepe batter from the freezer, which is completely thawed out, you have to snip off the bottom corner of your storage bag.
It doesn’t matter what side you choose as long as it’s on the bottom, away from the zipper. It becomes an instant pipette like what is used for icing!
After you snip off the corner, you can easily squeeze your batter onto your cooking surface. Better yet, once the bag is empty, you just throw it away! No further dishes to wash! How easy is that!?
A pro tip also about storing absolutely anything in your freezer is to make sure you label it. If you just store something in your freezer, especially if you have a deep freezer, it is easy to forget when you put it in there.
Always make sure to label the package with the date it was packaged and what is in the package. If not, you could be left trying to just figure it out, and that can tend to be pretty frustrating!
How Long Should Crepe Batter Rest?
Crepe batter can rest as short as 30 minutes and as long as 12 hours.
It all depends on your preference. If you are not planning to use your batter within 2 hours, don’t leave it out at room temperature as it can grow bacteria. Go ahead and store it in the fridge if you do not plan on using it within that amount of time.
How To Tell If Crepe Batter Has Gone Bad?
Change in Color
If the batter turns more of a pink or brown color, it could be an indication that it’s gone bad. If you’re not sure, you can always try the smell or taste test. If it doesn’t smell or taste the way it should, toss it!
Mold Growth
Mold usually appears as a fuzzy white or green ball on the top of your batter. If you see anything like this, throw it away immediately!
Weird Smell
Sometimes if your batter has gone bad, it will have a funky, hard mold-like smell. If your batter just doesn’t smell right, throw it away! It’s better to be safe than sorry.
How to Store Crepe Batter?
Storing your crepe batter just depends on where you plan on storing it. If you just leave it out at room temperature, I suggest wrapping the top in plastic wrap. This will keep it from being exposed to the air for too long and will prevent anything from dropping into it.
If you plan to store your batter in the fridge, make sure you store it in either an airtight container or a container with a cover or simply cover it with plastic wrap. Storage or freezer bags are an option here as well.
When storing your crepe batter in the freezer, it is best to use a locking airtight container or a freezer bag. Storing the batter in a freezer bag is my favorite option.
When it is thawed, you can easily cut a small hole in the corner of the bag to squeeze the batter out onto your cooking surface. This also makes clean-up a breeze, as all you have to do is throw the bag out!
Read More: What To Do with Leftover French Toast Batter?
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Ideal Crêpe Batter Consistency?
The ideal consistency is thinner than pancake batter. While pancake batter is a bit thicker, crepe batter should be almost runny.
Should the Batter Be Left to Rest in the Refrigerator?
Yes! This is actually the best way to let your batter rest, as it prevents the growth of bacteria.
How to Thaw & Reheat the Crepe Batter?
The best way to thaw your batter from the freezer is to place it in the fridge. If your batter has already been in the fridge, you can take it out and let it sit on your countertop to get back to room temperature.
Conclusion
Crepe batter is beautifully delicious. Always remember that whether you are letting it rest or planning to store it for a while. It is always best to put it in the refrigerator. This makes the best quality crepes for the whole family.