National Crepes Suzette Day

Young woman delicately flipping a crepe, wearing a beret, classic French cafe with Eiffel Tower in the background.. — National crepes suzette day illustration

Are you ready to celebrate National Crepes Suzette Day? Get ready to indulge in this delightful French treat and savor every delicious bite. Whether you're a crepe connoisseur or a first-time taster, this is the perfect day to satisfy your sweet tooth. Let's dive into the fascinating history of Crepes Suzette and discover why it deserves its own dedicated day of celebration!

When is Crepes Suzette Day?

It's national crepes suzette day on the 6th May.

The Royal Origins

Legend has it that Crepes Suzette was first created in the late 19th century as a culinary masterpiece fit for the royal palate. The story goes that a young French chef named Henri Charpentier accidentally set a dessert aflame during a dinner party for the Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VII. Instead of panicking, Henri decided to serve the flaming dish of crepes to the Prince, who loved it so much that he named it after one of his guests, Suzette.

A Worldwide Sensation

Word spread quickly about this decadent dessert, and soon Crepes Suzette became a sensation worldwide. The combination of delicate crepes, caramelized sugar, orange liqueur, and a hint of citrus zing captivated the taste buds of food enthusiasts everywhere.

The Flaming Tradition

A key element of the Crepes Suzette experience is the dramatic flaming presentation. The skillful technique involves pouring a warmed mixture of orange liqueur, sugar, and butter onto the crepes and igniting it. The flames create a spectacle that adds to the overall allure and indulgence of the dish.

Crepes Suzette Today

While Crepes Suzette is a timeless classic, it has evolved over time. Many variations now exist, with chefs adding their own personal touches to the recipe. Some serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream, while others experiment with different fruit and liqueur combinations.

History behind the term 'Crepes Suzette'

1895

Creation of the dessert

Crepes Suzette originated in 1895 when Henri Charpentier, a young assistant waiter, accidentally set a dessert on fire at the Cafe de Paris in Monaco. The dessert was made by his mentor, Auguste Escoffier, with crepes and a sweet orange sauce.

1897

Naming the dish

In 1897, the famous French actress, Suzanne Reichenberg, visited the Cafe de Paris. Henri Charpentier, now a renowned chef, decided to honor her by naming the dessert 'Crepes Suzette' after her. The name quickly gained popularity and became synonymous with the sweet and flamboyant treat.

1900

International recognition

Crepes Suzette gained international recognition in 1900 during the Exposition Universelle in Paris. The luxurious dessert was served to prestigious guests, including heads of state and celebrities, creating a sensation among high society. Its popularity spread around the world, and it became a symbol of sophistication and indulgence.

1954

Crepes Suzette in Hollywood

Crepes Suzette made its way to Hollywood in 1954 when the movie 'Sabrina' starring Audrey Hepburn featured a memorable scene of her enjoying the delectable dessert. The film increased the dish's popularity and cemented its status as a classic French delicacy.

Present

Continued admiration

Today, Crepes Suzette remains a beloved dessert in upscale restaurants and culinary circles. Its combination of luscious orange sauce, flaming presentation, and delicate crepes continues to captivate diners around the world. The term 'Crepes Suzette' has become synonymous with elegance, decadence, and a touch of theatricality.

Did you know?

Did you know that Crepes Suzette is often considered a dessert to be shared with loved ones? The act of preparing and enjoying this delicious treat together can create memorable moments and add a touch of romance to any meal.