Mother's Day Ombre Strawberry Kefir Crepe Cake

May 6

Imagine waking up Mom with a breakfast that’s not just delicious but totally Instagram-worthy! Picture this: 27 beautifully layered ombré crepes made with Lifeway Strawberry Kefir, each one filled with a dreamy Lifeway White Cheese filling and juicy fresh strawberries. The delicate pink hues of the crepes paired with the creamy filling make this dish almost too pretty to eat—but trust me, you won’t be able to resist! Serve these beauties with a hot cup of coffee, her favorite juice, or a refreshing smoothie, and you’ve got a breakfast that says “Thank You” and “I Love You” in the most scrumptious way possible. Imagine her smile as she takes that first bite, savoring the love and effort you put into making her morning special. It’s more than just breakfast; it’s a sweet way to show her just how much she means to you!

Reasons to Love The Ombre Strawberry Kefir Crepe Cake:

Deliciously Unique: These ombré crepes are a total showstopper! Not only do they taste amazing, but their gorgeous gradient colors make them a feast for the eyes, too. It’s like eating a beautiful sunrise!
Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a cozy weekend breakfast or a fancy brunch, these crepes will wow everyone at the table. They’re the ultimate way to show your love and make any morning feel extra special.
Customizable: Want to mix things up? Play around with different colors and fillings to suit your mood or the occasion. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

LifeWay Strawberry Kefir Crepes

1 quart (bottle) of Lifeway Strawberry Kefir
1 tsp baking soda
2 eggs
3 tbsp granulated sugar
4 tbsp vegetable oil
pinch of salt
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
4 tbsp water
vegetable oil for the frying pan

Lifeway Cheese Filling

2 packages Lifeway White Cheese
1/2 cup Lifeway Original Kefir
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups strawberries, thinly sliced
whole strawberries for decorations

Tools and Equipment:

Stand Mixer with Whisk Attachment: For whipping up that dreamy cheese filling.
Large Mixing Bowls: To handle all that delicious batter.
Sifter: For the smoothest crepe batter.
Rolling Pin: For any extra rolling needs.
Non-Stick Frying Pan or Crepe Pan: To cook those perfect, golden crepes.
Offset Spatula: For spreading the cheese filling evenly.
Piping Bag (Optional): For fancy decorating if you’re feeling extra.
Serving Platter or Cake Board: To display your beautiful creation.

Instructions

Strawberry Kefir Ombre Crepes

Whisk together half of the Lifeway Strawberry Kefir and baking soda in the large bowl, set aside.
Add eggs and sugar to the bowl of the stand mixer fitted with whisk attachment; whip on high speed for 5 minutes.
Add strawberry kefir/soda mixture, remaining strawberry kefir, oil, salt and whip on medium-high speed for 5 more minutes.
Reduce the mixer's speed to lowest and slowly add sifted flour, 1/2 cup at a time. Once all flour is added, increase the mixer's speed to medium and mix until all is combined with no clumps (stop the mixer few times and scrape sides and bottom of the bowl if needed)
Once all flour has incorporated, reduce mixer's speed to lowest and add water. Allow to mix/incorporate.
Separate the crepe's batter into 3 bowls; leave one uncolored, and add 6 drops of dark pink or burgundy gel food coloring to one and 3 drops to the other. Mix in the color in each bowl until fully incoporated.
Grease your crepe's pan or small frying pan with little bit of vegetable oil (you can use pastry brush or paper towel dipped into the oil). Preheat the pan on medium speed before adding aproximately half a laddle of the batter, swirling it around until the entire botton of the pan is evenly covered with a thin layer of batter. Once the batter developes bubbles and no longer looks wet and shiny, flip the crepe to fry the other side. It's best to fry darker batter first, finishing with frying the uncolored one. Regrease the pan as needed.
You should end up with 9 darker pink/burgundy crepes, 9 of lighter pink or burgundy crepes, and 9 of plain/uncolored crepes. Allow crepes to fully cool off before use.

Cheese Filling

Add Lifeway White Cheese, Lifeway Original Kefir, sugar, and vanilla into the bowl of stand mixer fitted with whisk attachment. Whip on high speed for at least 5 minutes.
The filling will not be smooth and will half small clumps of White Cheese which is completely normal.

Assembly

Add approximately 1 tsp of the cheese filling to your serving platter or cake board, smoothing with off-set spatula. Place the first darker pink/burgundy crepe over and press gently to help it adhere to the filling.
Smooth aproximately 2 tbsp of cheese filling over the crepe using off-set spatula; arrange 5-6 thin slices of fresh strawberries and cover with the second dark pink crepe.
Repeat will all crepes, filling, and sliced strawberries arranging and filling the darker, then the lighter pink crepes, finishing with the uncolored/ plain crepes. You should have 9 darker crepes layers starting at the bottom of cake, then the 9 lighter pink crepes layers, then the 9 uncolored crepe layers.
Place the filled crepe cake into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set.
After at least 30 minutes have passed, remove the crepe cake from the refrigerator and smooth (or pipe) remaining farmer cheese filling on the top of the cake, arrange whole strawberries, serve and enjoy.

Tips for Success:

Chill the Batter: Keep your batter cool to avoid spreading too much and to get those perfect crepes.
Even Cooking: Make sure your pan is preheated and greased just right. This ensures each crepe cooks evenly and doesn’t stick.
Smooth Layers: Let each crepe cool before layering to prevent them from sticking together. It’s worth the wait!

Troubleshooting Tips:

Dough Too Thick? Add a splash of water to thin it out. It should be pourable but not runny.
Crepes Sticking? Ensure your pan is well-greased and properly heated. This will help them slide right off.
Uneven Layers? Use a ruler or template to keep your layers consistent and beautiful.

Variations:

Fruit Fillings: Swap out strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or any fruit you love for a fun twist.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheese filling for a cozy, spiced flavor.

Storing and Serving:

Storing: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They’re great for a quick breakfast or snack!
Serving: These crepes are best served chilled or at room temperature. Perfect for a leisurely breakfast or brunch!

More Decorating Ideas:

Powdered Sugar: Dust with powdered sugar for a classic, elegant touch that’s sure to impress.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted chocolate on top for a decadent finishing touch that takes these crepes to the next level.

Pairing Suggestions:

Coffee: A rich, bold coffee pairs perfectly with the sweet and creamy flavors of the crepes.
Juice: Fresh orange juice or a fruity smoothie makes a refreshing complement to this breakfast treat.
Tea: Try a light, fragrant tea like Earl Grey or chamomile to enhance the delicate flavors of the crepes.

Fun Trivia:

Did you know that crepes originated in Brittany, France? They’ve been a beloved French dish for centuries and come in so many delicious variations. These colorful ombré crepes add a fun, modern twist to a classic favorite, making them even more delightful!