Smoked Salmon Blini Bites are tiny pancakes topped with creamy goodness and flavorful salmon. They are perfect for any gathering!
These little snacks always impress guests and are super fun to eat. Plus, who can resist that amazing combo of flavors? I love serving them at parties, and they disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour is used here, but you can swap it for whole wheat or a gluten-free blend as needed. The texture may be a bit different, but still delicious!
Smoked Salmon: This is the star! If you can’t find smoked salmon, try using deli-style smoked trout or even canned salmon for a more affordable option.
Sour Cream or Crème Fraîche: Both options add creaminess. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a healthier twist. It has a similar texture and tangy flavor!
Dill: Fresh dill is the classic herb here, but you can use parsley or chives if you prefer a milder taste. Dried herbs can also work in a pinch; just use less.
How Do You Make Fluffy Blinis?
The secret to light and fluffy blinis lies in separating and whipping the egg whites. This adds air to your batter for that perfect lift.
- Start by beating the egg whites in a clean bowl until they form stiff peaks. This means when you lift the whisk out, they hold their shape.
- Gently fold the whipped egg whites into your batter. Be careful not to overmix! This keeps all those tiny air bubbles intact.
This technique is a game-changer for fluffy pancakes, and it makes your blini bites the star of any gathering!
Smoked Salmon Blini Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Blini Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg, separated
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for cooking)
For the Topping:
- 4 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream or crème fraîche
- Fresh dill sprigs for garnish
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives or green onions
- Optional: salmon roe (fish eggs) for topping
- Optional: finely diced red onion or shallots
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes in total. This includes about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking the blinis. With the assembling and garnishing, you’ll have a delicious platter of bites ready to serve in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
Start by taking a medium bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. This will be the base of your blini batter!
2. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix the whole milk, egg yolk, and melted butter together. Stir this mixture into the dry ingredients. Don’t worry if it’s a bit lumpy; just make sure to mix until it’s combined.
3. Whip the Egg White:
In a clean bowl, beat the egg white until stiff peaks form. This means it should look fluffy and hold its shape when you lift the whisk out. Gently fold the egg white into your batter to keep everything nice and airy.
4. Cook the Blinis:
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat and add a little butter. Spoon small rounds (about 1-2 tablespoons) of batter into the skillet. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until you see bubbles forming on top and the bottom is golden brown. Carefully flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until that side is golden too. Transfer the blinis to a plate and keep them warm while you repeat with the remaining batter.
5. Assemble the Bites:
Now comes the fun part! Take each blini and spread a small dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche on top. Layer a folded slice of smoked salmon over the cream. Sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions, a sprig of dill, and if you’d like, a little salmon roe or diced onion.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your Smoked Salmon Blini Bites immediately while they’re warm. These delightful little treats are perfect for any gathering or as a special appetizer at home. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Make Blinis Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the blinis in advance! Cook them, cool completely, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat them gently on a skillet or in the microwave before serving.
How Do I Store Leftover Blinis?
Store any leftover blinis in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them as needed, but they are best enjoyed fresh. If you’re making them ahead, only add the toppings just before serving to keep everything fresh and creamy.
Can I Freeze the Blinis?
Absolutely! Once they are cooked and cooled, you can freeze the blinis in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for about 1 month. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, crème fraîche is a perfect substitute! You can also use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist, as it has a similar consistency and tangy flavor.