Smoked Salmon Blini Bites are tasty little snacks that are perfect for parties! These fluffy pancakes topped with creamy cheese and delicate salmon are sure to wow your guests.
They’re fun to make and even better to eat! I love serving them with a squeeze of lemon on top for a zesty kick. You’ll want to keep these delicious bites coming! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose Flour: This is the base for the blinis. You can also use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or gluten-free flour if you’re avoiding gluten. Just be sure it’s a 1:1 blend for best results.
Milk: Regular milk keeps the batter smooth but feel free to use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option. Both will work well in this recipe!
Smoked Salmon: The star of the show! If you can’t find it, try using cooked shrimp or even sliced deli turkey for a different take. Both bring a unique flavor while still being delicious.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. You can substitute with mascarpone or Greek yogurt for a lighter version. I often mix it with some sour cream for an extra tangy flavor!
How Do I Get Fluffy Blinis?
The batter’s texture is essential for fluffy blinis. Here’s what to do:
- Don’t overmix! Stir just until everything is combined; it’s fine if there are a few lumps.
- Let the batter rest—this allows gluten to relax and will help create light, airy blinis.
- Cook on medium heat. Too high, and they’ll burn on the outside but be raw on the inside. Aim for a lovely golden brown!
Following these tips will get you perfectly fluffy blinis every time. Happy cooking!
Smoked Salmon Blini Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for cooking
- 4 oz cream cheese or crème fraîche, softened
- 1 tablespoon sour cream (optional, to mix with cream cheese)
- 100-150 g smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges (optional), for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s perfect for a quick snack or elegant party appetizer that your guests will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat the egg with the milk and melted butter until everything is well combined. Now pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix! Let the batter rest for about 5-10 minutes.
2. Cook the Blinis:
Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add a little butter to lightly grease the pan. Using a tablespoon, drop small rounds of batter onto the pan, making mini pancakes around 2-3 inches in diameter. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until you see bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Flip them over and cook the other side until golden brown. Transfer the cooked blinis to a plate and keep them warm. Repeat this step with the remaining batter.
3. Assemble the Bites:
In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese (and sour cream if you’re using it) until smooth and creamy. You can season with a bit of black pepper for extra flavor if you like. To assemble, spread a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture on each blini. Top each with a fold of smoked salmon, and add a little sprig of fresh dill on top for garnish.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
Arrange your beautiful blini bites on a serving plate. If you like, add lemon wedges on the side for anyone who wants a zesty squeeze over their bites. Enjoy your delicious smoked salmon blini bites as elegant appetizers or fantastic party snacks!
Can I Make the Blinis Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the blinis ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat them on a skillet over low heat before assembling with the cream cheese and salmon.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover blinis, store them separately from the toppings in an airtight container. The blinis will last for up to 3 days in the fridge, but for the best flavor and texture, enjoy them the same day!
Can I Use a Different Type of Fish?
Yes! If smoked salmon isn’t your favorite, you can use any smoked fish like trout or mackerel. You can also try it with cooked shrimp or crab for a different seafood twist!
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use crème fraîche, mascarpone, or even Greek yogurt for a tangy, creamy base. Each option will give a different but delicious flavor to your blini bites!