Smoked Salmon Blini Bites are a tasty treat perfect for gatherings! These little pancakes are topped with creamy cheese and delicious smoked salmon, making them a hit at any party.
They are bite-sized, so you can pop one in your mouth and keep chatting! 😊 I love serving these for brunch or as snacks because they are super easy to make and always impress my guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This flour is a great base for the blinis, giving them a light texture. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, you can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Baking Powder: It helps the blinis rise, giving them a fluffy texture. If you’re out of baking powder, try substituting with 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda plus 1/2 teaspoon of vinegar.
Smoked Salmon: The star of this dish! If you can’t find smoked salmon, you can use cooked shrimp or even canned tuna mixed with a bit of mayo for a different twist.
Sour Cream or Crème Fraîche: Both add creaminess. Greek yogurt is a nice lower-fat alternative that still offers a tangy flavor.
How Do You Make Perfect Blinis?
Making light and fluffy blinis is easier than you think! The key is to mix the ingredients gently and let the batter rest. Resting allows the gluten to relax, which helps keep the blinis tender.
- Whisk dry and wet ingredients in separate bowls before combining to ensure even mixing.
- Let the batter sit for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This step is crucial!
- Use a non-stick skillet and don’t rush the cooking process—medium heat is best for a nice golden color.
- Keep an eye on the bubbles; when they form, it’s time to flip!
Smoked Salmon Blini Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk (preferably whole milk)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for cooking
- 4 ounces smoked salmon, sliced into small pieces
- 1/2 cup sour cream or crème fraîche
- Fresh dill sprigs for garnish
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes on prep (mixing the batters and allowing them to rest) and another 15 minutes cooking the blinis and assembling them. Quick and easy for a crowd-pleaser!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. In another bowl, crack the egg and beat it. Then, whisk in the milk and melted butter until everything is nicely mixed. Now, combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients by pouring them together and stirring gently. It’s okay if a few lumps remain; they will disappear during cooking! Let the batter sit for 10-15 minutes to rest—this helps make the blinis fluffy.
2. Cook the Blinis:
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with a bit of butter. Using a tablespoon or small spoon, drop dollops of batter onto the skillet, making small rounds of about 1-2 inches in diameter. Cook for 1-2 minutes until you see bubbles forming on the surface and the bottom is golden brown. Carefully flip them over and cook the other side for another minute until golden and cooked through. Once done, remove the blinis from the skillet and let them cool slightly on a plate.
3. Assemble and Serve:
Now comes the best part—assembling those tasty bites! Top each blini with a small dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche, followed by a slice of smoked salmon. Finish off by garnishing each with a sprig of fresh dill. Arrange your beautiful blinis on a serving plate, and if you like, add some lemon wedges on the side for a little zing. Enjoy your elegant and delicious Smoked Salmon Blini Bites!
Can I Make Blinis Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the blinis in advance! Prepare them, let them cool completely, and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in a non-stick skillet for a few minutes on each side until warm.
Can I Substitute Whole Milk?
Absolutely! If you don’t have whole milk, you can use any milk you have on hand, including skim or plant-based milks. Just keep in mind that using lower-fat milk may result in slightly less rich and tender blinis.
How Do I Store Leftover Blinis?
To store any leftover blinis, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Can I Use a Different Topping?
Of course! While smoked salmon is classic, feel free to get creative. You can try toppings like diced avocado, herbed cream cheese, or even roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless!
