What is the name for the French dish of thin pancakes filled with sweet or spicy fillings?

These versatile, ultra-thin pancakes trace their origins to the Brittany region of France. The name itself comes from the Latin word "crispa," which means "curled" or "creased," a fitting description for the delicate, folded dish. Unlike thicker American-style pancakes, the batter for this French specialty contains no leavening agent, which results in its signature paper-thin texture. This simple base of flour, eggs, and milk allows for endless possibilities when it comes to additions.

The dish is famously served in two main styles: sweet (sucrée) and savory (salée). Sweet versions are often filled with ingredients like Nutella, fresh fruit, jam, or a simple dusting of sugar. Savory crêpes, traditionally known as galettes and made with buckwheat flour, can be stuffed with fillings such as ham, cheese, eggs, and sautéed mushrooms. This adaptability has made them a beloved food, found everywhere from street-side stalls in Paris to elegant restaurants serving classic desserts like Crêpes Suzette.

Beyond being a popular meal or snack, these pancakes hold cultural significance in their home country. In France, they are traditionally served on February 2nd for a holiday known as La Chandeleur, or Candlemas. This "Day of the Crêpes" involves a tradition where flipping a crêpe while holding a coin is believed to bring wealth and happiness (Review) for the coming year. The round, golden pancake is said to symbolize the sun and the coming of spring.