The Mille Crêpes cake traces its origins to the French dessert mille crêpes, where mille means “a thousand” in French, symbolizing the many delicate layers. It was first made by stacking thin crêpes with layers of cream or custard, and by the 19th century in France it had become a light yet luxurious treat.
The dessert later spread to Japan and was popularized by Tokyo pastry shops in the 1990s. The Japanese version emphasized a lighter, more delicate texture, often paired with fresh cream, fruit, or matcha, quickly becoming a classic that blended Eastern and Western flavors.
In the 21st century, mille crêpes cakes gained popularity in the United States, especially in New York, where Lady M made them widely known. Today, they are seen not only as a symbol of high-end desserts but also as a popular choice for family gatherings and festive celebrations.