These Smoked Salmon Blini Bites are tiny, tasty treats perfect for any gathering! Soft, fluffy blinis topped with rich cream cheese and smoky salmon make everyone happy.
They’re super easy to make, and you’ll look like a culinary genius! 😄 I love serving these at parties; they disappear quickly, and guests always ask for the recipe!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose Flour: This is the foundation of your blinis. If you want a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Milk: Whole milk is recommended for the right texture. You can also use almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free version. Just make sure it’s warmed before blending in.
Smoked Salmon: The star of the dish! If you can’t find smoked salmon, try using lox or even cooked shrimp for a different twist. Canned salmon works too but won’t provide the same texture.
Sour Cream or Crème Fraîche: Both add creaminess. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative. It provides a nice tang, too!
How Can I Make Sure My Blinis Are Fluffy?
The key to fluffy blinis is gentle mixing. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense blinis.
- Make sure the milk is warmed to help activate the baking powder.
- Keep your skillet at medium heat. Too hot will burn the outside while leaving the inside raw.
- Let the batter sit for a few minutes before cooking. This allows it to thicken up a bit.
Smoked Salmon Blini Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup sour cream or crème fraîche
- 100g smoked salmon, sliced
- Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. Perfect for a quick appetizer or brunch treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. In another bowl, beat the egg, then stir in the warmed milk and melted butter. Mix until everything is blended nicely.
2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently stir until the mixture is smooth but not over-mixed. A slightly thick batter is what you want.
3. Cook the Blinis:
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with a bit of butter or oil. Use a spoon to drop small dollops (about 1 tablespoon each) of batter onto the skillet. You should have several mini pancakes cooking at the same time.
4. Flip and Finish:
Cook the blinis for about 1 to 2 minutes. When you see bubbles forming on the surface, it’s time to flip! Cook for another minute or until both sides are golden brown. Remove and keep warm while you cook the rest.
5. Assemble the Blini Bites:
Once your blinis are ready, it’s time to assemble! Place a small dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche on top of each blini.
6. Add Smoked Salmon:
Top each blini with a folded slice of smoked salmon, and then finish with a small sprig of fresh dill for that gorgeous touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delightful bites immediately. Optionally, offer lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy a little citrus zing. Enjoy your elegant, delicious Smoked Salmon Blini Bites!
Can I Make Blinis Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the blinis in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave before assembling with the toppings.
How Do I Store Leftover Blinis?
Store any leftover blinis in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking.
Can I Use a Different Topping?
Sure! While smoked salmon is traditional, feel free to customize with toppings like caviar, sliced avocado, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
What If I Don’t Have Sour Cream or Crème Fraîche?
No problem! You can substitute with Greek yogurt or even a light ranch dressing for a different flavor profile while still keeping the creamy element!