These Smoked Salmon Blini Bites are cute little pancakes topped with delicious smoked salmon and a dollop of cream. Perfect for parties or when you want to impress your friends!
Every time I make these, I can’t help but feel fancy! They’re so easy to put together, and your guests will love them. Just one bite and they’ll be hooked! 🐟❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is your base for the blinis. If you need a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free all-purpose blend. I find that the texture may differ slightly, but it still works well.
Buttermilk: Buttermilk gives the batter a lovely tang. If you don’t have any, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes.
Eggs: Separated eggs create a lighter blini. If you prefer to keep it easier, you can use a whole egg instead, though the texture might be a bit denser.
Smoked salmon: Look for high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a budget option or something different, you can use smoked trout or even cooked and shredded chicken as an alternative.
Crème fraîche or sour cream: Both work beautifully, but I prefer crème fraîche for its richness. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt also does the trick!
How Do You Create Light and Fluffy Blinis?
Achieving that light, airy texture in your blinis is key! Here are some steps to ensure success:
- Start by combining your dry ingredients and whisk them well to avoid lumps.
- When mixing the wet ingredients, be gentle. The goal is to just bring everything together—over-mixing can make your blinis dense.
- Beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks, then gently fold them into the batter. This adds air, making the blinis light and fluffy.
- Cook on medium heat to prevent burning. If your skillet is too hot, the outside will cook quickly while the inside remains raw.
- Keep the blinis warm after cooking, so they remain soft until you’re ready to serve them!
Give it a try, and you’ll impress everyone with these delightful bite-sized treats! Enjoy your cooking experience!
Smoked Salmon Blini Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg, separated
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for cooking)
- Toppings:
- 4 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crème fraîche or sour cream
- Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: lemon zest or a few drops of lemon juice for added freshness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 20 minutes preparing and cooking the blinis, and an additional 10 minutes assembling and garnishing. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This mixture is the base for your blinis, so make sure everything is combined well.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and the egg yolk. Slowly add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
3. Beat the Egg Whites:
In a clean bowl, beat the egg white until stiff peaks form (you want it to hold its shape when you lift the whisk). Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter, trying not to deflate them. Next, stir in the melted butter in a gentle folding motion.
4. Cook the Blinis:
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter. Scoop tablespoon-sized dollops of batter onto the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to look set. Flip them over and cook for another minute until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
5. Assemble the Blinis:
Once all the blinis are cooked, transfer them to a plate and keep warm. To assemble, place a slice of smoked salmon on each blini. Top with a dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Garnish each blini with a sprig of fresh dill and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. For an extra touch of brightness, add a hint of lemon zest or a few drops of lemon juice.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your elegant smoked salmon blini bites immediately while they are warm and fresh. They make fantastic bite-sized appetizers that are sure to impress your guests!
Happy cooking! 🎉
Can I Make the Batter in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance! Just cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to cook, give it a gentle stir but be careful not to overmix.
What Should I Do If My Blinis Are Too Thick?
If you find your batter is too thick, add a little more buttermilk, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. The batter should be pourable but still thick enough to hold its shape on the skillet.
Can I Freeze Leftover Blinis?
Absolutely! Allow the blinis to cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper between each layer in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a skillet or the oven until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Crème Fraîche?
If you don’t have crème fraîche, sour cream works well as a substitute. You can also use Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that the flavors may differ slightly!
