The primary difference between a galette and a standard crepe is that crepes are sweet while galettes are savory.
This generally refers to the filling or toppings used in each type of recipe. That means, that a crepe will generally contain sweet fillings and toppings such as fruit, chocolate, and whipped cream, while a galette usually contains savory fillings such as potato, mushrooms, and onions.
Another noticeable difference between the two is that crepes are folded while galettes have an open center with the filling showing.
What are the Differences and Similarities Between Crepes and French Galette?
While it is true that crepes usually contain a sweet filling while galette is made with savory ingredients, this is not always the case.
You will find many crepe recipes that contain savory ingredients, such as my chicken with green chili recipe.
There are also many sweet galettes that can be made.
But even when the same style of filling is used, both of these types of recipes still have their differences.
Crepes are always folded, creating a wrapped shape. And for the majority of crepes recipes, filling is placed on the inside.
Galettes will have a folded over edge, with a large open space in the middle containing the filling ingredient.
The “crust” of a galette is generally firmer in texture than a crepe, which is soft and similar to a very thin pancake.
Preparing Crepes and Galettes
You will find that crepes and galettes both are made using a similar batter. While individual recipes will vary, they both are made with a flour base.
Crepes will generally use all-purpose flour, wheat flour, or even gluten free varieties.
A traditional galette is made using buckwheat flour, but you will find recipes calling for all-purpose flour, tapioca flour, and even cassava flour.
From there you will heat your batter, and these two types of dishes are cooked in very different ways.
Most crepe recipes will be heated in a flat pan, while most galette recipes require baking.
This results in the different textures each of these types of dishes produce. A crepe has a thin, soft texture, while the galette produces a texture much like that of a pizza crust or pie crust.
Types of Toppings for Crepes and Galettes
As discussed earlier, galette traditionally is filled with savory ingredients. There are many wonderful combinations that can be used.
Because galettes usually contain savory ingredients, they are usually served for dinner.
Many find that they enjoy similar ingredients in a galette as they do on a pizza. I will provide a list of some common types of toppings/fillings that are used to make homemade galette.
- Tomato
- Mushrooms
- Potatoes
- Eggs
- Fish
- Cheese
- Beef
- Chicken
- Spinach
- Olives
- Peppers
Since crepes are usually filled with sweet ingredients, they are perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Here are some common fillings/toppings that you will find in crepe recipes.
- Strawberries
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Banana
- Pecans
- Walnuts
- Almonds
- Chocolate
- Nutella
- Whipped Cream
When all is said and done, crepes can be considered the French version of pancakes, while galettes can be considered the French version of pizza.