If you’re looking to transform a simple breakfast into a festive celebration, the Very Merry Cranberry Christmas Crepes Recipe is your new go-to! These delicate, buttery crepes wrapped around a dreamy cream cheese filling and topped with a tangy, homemade cranberry jam will instantly bring holiday cheer to your table. With a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors and an irresistible texture, this recipe not only tastes divine but also makes for a stunning centerpiece during the Christmas season. I can’t wait to walk you through every loving step so you can share this joyful dish with your friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows eight small glass and white dishes arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. At the top left is a glass bowl holding two brown eggs. Next to it on the right is a larger glass bowl with yellow melted butter. Below the eggs to the left is a small wooden bowl filled with white granulated sugar, and below it is a tiny white round dish containing dark vanilla extract. At the center is a small oval white dish with a light yellow butter piece. To the right of the sugar is a larger wooden bowl filled with white flour. Below the butter piece is a glass bowl with a small amount of white milk, and next to it to the right is a glass bowl with clear water. A soft pink cloth rests partially in the bottom left of the frame. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

All the magic starts with a handful of ingredients that are simple yet essential. Each item contributes to the texture, flavor, and festive look of these crepes—from the creaminess of the cream cheese filling to the vibrant zing of fresh cranberries and orange zest in the jam.

2 large eggs: The backbone of the crepe batter, giving structure and richness.
3/4 cup milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a smooth, pourable batter.
1/2 cup water: Lightens the batter so your crepes stay tender and thin.
1 cup flour: The base that brings everything together with silky, thin layers.
3 tablespoons melted butter: Infuses flavor and keeps the crepes tender.
1/4 cup sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the tart cranberry jam.
1 teaspoon vanilla: Elevates the flavor with warm, fragrant notes.
1 teaspoon butter (for coating the pan): Ensures your crepes don’t stick and have a beautiful golden color.
1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing the crepes): Adds a subtle richness and gorgeous sheen after cooking.
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese (softened): Creates the luscious filling that pairs perfectly with the cranberry topping.
2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling just enough for a luscious taste.
1 teaspoon vanilla (for filling): Gives depth and warmth to the cream cheese mixture.
2 cups whole cranberries (fresh or frozen): The star of the jam, adding festive tartness and color.
2/3 cup sugar (for jam): Balances the cranberries’ natural tartness and thickens the jam.
1 teaspoon orange zest: Brightens the jam with a zesty citrus punch.
1 tablespoon candied ginger (chopped): Adds a spicy-sweet complexity to the cranberry jam.
2/3 cup water (for jam): Helps the cranberries cook down into a luscious jam consistency.
Optional: powdered sugar (for dusting): A festive finishing touch that adds visual appeal and extra sweetness.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Very Merry Cranberry Christmas Crepes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crepe Batter

Start by gathering your ingredients—this always makes the process more enjoyable and efficient. In a blender, combine the eggs, milk, water, flour, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth. The key here is to let the batter rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour; during this time, the bubbles settle which ensures your crepes will be thin without any rips or holes when cooking. It’s a little extra patience for a huge payoff in texture!

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

While your batter chills, mix the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until creamy and smooth. This filling is what adds that wonderfully rich and tangy contrast to the sweet cranberry topping. Keep it chilled and covered until you’re ready to assemble.

Step 3: Cook the Crepes

Heat a 9-inch non-stick pan or cast iron griddle on medium-high. Lightly grease the surface with butter to get that perfect golden finish and to prevent sticking. Pour about 1/8 cup of batter into the pan, swirling it evenly to create a thin layer. Cook on one side for about 30 seconds until the edges start to lift, then carefully flip and cook another 10 to 20 seconds. Once done, transfer to a plate and brush each crepe with melted butter to keep them supple and flavorful. Repeat this process until all batter is used up, stacking the crepes and brushing butter between layers to prevent sticking. If you’re making these to enjoy immediately, keep your stack warm in a 200 F oven.

Step 4: Prepare the Cranberry Jam

In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange zest, chopped candied ginger, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency, about 10 to 15 minutes. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer while you assemble the crepes.

Step 5: Assemble Your Very Merry Cranberry Christmas Crepes Recipe

Spread about 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture onto each crepe, then roll them up gently but snugly. Place the rolled crepes onto serving plates and spoon a generous amount of the warm cranberry jam on top. A final dusting of powdered sugar makes these crepes ready for their holiday spotlight!

How to Serve Very Merry Cranberry Christmas Crepes Recipe

The image shows two parts side by side on a white marbled surface. On the left, there is a stack of thin pancakes on a round white plate. The stack has about eight light golden layers with small brown spots, and the edges are slightly crispy. On the right, there is a white pot with a wooden handle filled with thick, dark red mixed berry sauce with visible whole berries and chunks. A woman’s hand holds a spoon stirring the sauce, with the spoon dipped into the mixture showing its thickness and texture. A pale pink cloth is partly visible near the pot. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar creates a snowy effect that’s both beautiful and tasty. Fresh mint leaves or extra candied ginger bits can add a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. These small touches make your crepes look as good as they taste, perfect for a festive brunch table.

Side Dishes

This dish shines as the main act, but pairing it with a light fruit salad featuring oranges and pomegranate seeds complements the cranberry jam beautifully. Also, a cup of hot spiced cider or freshly brewed coffee warmed with cinnamon makes for an inviting and cozy holiday pairing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a gorgeous presentation, fold the crepes into quarters rather than rolling, creating pretty little pockets that hold the filling. Arrange them in a circular pattern on a large platter and top with the cranberry jam in the center, letting everyone serve themselves with a festive touch. Or stack them layered with jam and filling in between for an impressive crepe cake that steals the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your leftover crepes can be stacked carefully with a thin layer of melted butter brushed between each to keep them from sticking. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, ensuring they stay tender and flavorful for a quick holiday snack or breakfast.

Freezing

One of the best parts of this Very Merry Cranberry Christmas Crepes Recipe is that it freezes beautifully! After the crepes are fully cooled and buttered, place them in a freezer-safe bag laid flat to keep them from sticking together. They’ll keep for up to two months, so you can prepare this festive treat well ahead of time and pull them out whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To warm frozen or refrigerated crepes, gently heat them in a 200 F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This method keeps them tender and allows the butter to melt back in. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crepes rubbery or dry out the filling.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for the jam?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw them slightly and drain excess water if needed before cooking your jam to avoid it becoming too watery.

Is it okay to use low-fat cream cheese?

For the creamiest texture and best flavor, full-fat cream cheese is recommended. Low-fat versions may not blend as smoothly or provide the same richness in the filling.

Can I make these crepes gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just keep an eye on the batter consistency and add a splash of extra milk or water if it feels too thick.

How do I prevent the crepes from tearing while cooking?

Allowing the batter to rest in the fridge for at least an hour helps reduce bubbles that cause tearing. Also, ensure your pan is properly greased and hot—it should sizzle slightly when you pour the batter but not burn it.

Can I substitute another fruit for the cranberry jam?

While the cranberry jam is a signature part of this recipe’s festive appeal, you can experiment with cherry or raspberry jams for a different but equally delicious version.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough that you give this Very Merry Cranberry Christmas Crepes Recipe a try this holiday season. It’s a joyful dish that’s sure to become a tradition, with its irresistible combination of delicate crepes, creamy filling, and tart cranberry jam. Whether shared at brunch or as a special treat after dinner, these crepes bring a little extra magic to your festivities. Happy cooking and even happier celebrations!

Very Merry Cranberry Christmas Crepes Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need