Princess Diana’s love for crepes soufflé is a delightful piece of royal history that continues to captivate dessert enthusiasts today. This light and airy French treat, often topped with a fruit glaze like apricot jam, was a staple in her menu, thanks to her personal chef, Darren McGrady. Despite Queen Elizabeth II’s preference for simpler desserts, McGrady cleverly ensured the crepes soufflé remained Princess Diana’s favorite dessert. The dessert even played a role in her bond with the kitchen staff, as she’d often sneak in for seconds after dinner.
Princess Diana’s Crêpes Soufflé
Equipment
- Mixing bowl for preparing batter and soufflé mixture
- Whisk for mixing and whipping egg whites
- Non-stick skillet for cooking crêpes
- Baking sheet for baking the crêpes soufflé
- Saucepan for preparing apricot glaze
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs for crêpe batter
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar for crêpe batter
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted, for crêpe batter
- 3 large egg whites for soufflé filling
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar for soufflé filling
- 1 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, eggs, sugar, salt, and melted butter until smooth. Let the batter rest for 10 minutes.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour a small amount of batter into the pan, swirling to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly golden. Repeat with remaining batter.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Place a spoonful of soufflé filling in the center of each crêpe. Fold in half, then fold again into a triangle shape. Arrange on a baking sheet.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the filled crêpes for 5-7 minutes until the soufflé filling is slightly puffed.
- In a small saucepan, heat the apricot jam over low heat until warm and smooth. Strain if desired.
- Drizzle the warm apricot glaze over the baked crêpes soufflé and serve immediately.
Notes
- Storage: Best enjoyed immediately. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated in a low oven.
- Customization: Try different fruit jams for a variety of flavors.
- Serving Tip: Dust with powdered sugar for extra elegance.
Nutrition
The Dessert Princess Diana Adored
Princess Diana’s fondness for crepes soufflé wasn’t just about the taste; it was a reflection of her personality. Darren McGrady, who served as her personal chef after her divorce from Prince Charles, revealed that he’d strategically include the dessert on the menu. He’d pair it with something Queen Elizabeth II didn’t enjoy, like prune bread, or bread and butter pudding ensuring Diana could indulge. Her love for the dish was so strong that she’d often return to the kitchen for a second helping, sharing casual moments with McGrady. The dessert became a symbol of her warmth and approachability.
If you’re looking to try other unique crepe recipes, check out our collection of 6 unique crepe recipes that will delight your taste buds.
How to Make Princess Diana’s Crepes Soufflé
Making this royal dessert at home is simpler than you might think. The recipe calls for basic ingredients like eggs, butter, milk, sugar, flour, and cream, topped with a fruit glaze. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and heating your ring molds to prevent the batter from leaking. Small molds typically take 8 to 10 minutes to bake until the soufflés rise and turn golden brown.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:
- Whisk together egg yolks, whole eggs, melted butter, milk, sugar, flour, and cream to form a smooth batter.
- Beat egg whites until they form stiff peaks, then gently fold them into the batter for that airy texture.
- Ladle the mixture into preheated molds and bake until golden and risen.
For more inspiration, explore our list of the 10 best crepes you must try this year.
The Cultural Impact of Crepes Soufflé and “Spencer”
The dessert gained renewed attention after being featured in the 2021 film “Spencer,” which depicted Princess Diana’s life during a pivotal Christmas weekend. The movie highlighted her bond with the royal staff, including Chef McGrady. Surprisingly, the film omitted the scene of McGrady preparing her beloved crepes soufflé. McGrady expressed his disappointment, noting that the moment was a cherished part of his time with Diana.
Despite this omission, the film sparked a wave of interest in the dessert. Home cooks and food lovers alike began recreating the recipe, eager to experience a taste of royal history. The crepes soufflé became not just a dessert but a way to connect with Princess Diana’s legacy.
Chef Darren McGrady: Sharing Royal Culinary Secrets
Darren McGrady’s role in Princess Diana’s life extended far beyond the kitchen. As her personal chef, he prepared meals that reflected her tastes and preferences. After her passing, McGrady has worked tirelessly to preserve and share royal culinary traditions. He’s written a cookbook and regularly shares princess dianas favorite dessert recipes on his YouTube channel, including the famous crepes soufflé.
For those interested in royal desserts, McGrady’s work offers a unique glimpse into the royal kitchen. His dedication ensures that Princess Diana’s favorite dishes, like the crepes soufflé, remain accessible to the public. You can also explore cream cheese crepe filling for a modern twist on classic recipes.
Why Crepes Soufflé Is Still a Favorite Today
Decades after Princess Diana’s time, crepes soufflé continues to be a beloved dessert. Its combination of lightness and richness makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. The dish’s royal connection adds a layer of intrigue, turning it into more than just a dessert—it’s a piece of history.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice with a sweet tooth, the recipe is approachable and rewarding. It’s a reminder that even royal favorites can be recreated in your own kitchen. So, preheat your oven, grab your molds, and get ready to bake a dessert fit for a princess.