What Liquor Does Julia Child Add To Her Flaming Crepes Suzette?

Julia Child, the iconic chef known for bringing French cuisine to American households, had a flair for creating both delicious and visually stunning dishes. One such dish is Crêpes Suzette, a classic French dessert that combines thin, delicate pancakes with a rich, buttery orange sauce. What sets this dish apart is the dramatic flambé technique, where alcohol is added to the sauce and ignited to create a burst of flames. Julia Child's recipe for Crêpes Suzette calls for the addition of Grand Marnier, a French liqueur made from a blend of cognac and distilled essence of bitter orange. Grand Marnier not only adds a distinctive citrusy flavor to the sauce but also complements the orange zest and juice, enhancing the overall taste profile. The alcohol in the liqueur is what allows the dish to be flambéed, as it quickly evaporates, leaving behind a caramelized, aromatic sauce that envelopes the crêpes. This touch of Grand Marnier elevates the dessert's sophistication and allure, making it a memorable end to any meal. Julia Child's meticulous approach and love for French cuisine shine through in this elegant and theatrical dessert, showcasing her ability to turn cooking into an art form.