Smoked Salmon Blinis

Bysophie

Smoked Salmon Blinis are small, soft, fluffy pancakes topped with silky slices of smoked salmon and usually finished with a creamy spread like cream cheese or sour cream. They are bite-sized, which makes them perfect for parties, holidays, or special family dinners. A blini (sometimes called blinis) is a tiny pancake that originally comes from Russia and Eastern Europe. They are slightly thicker than a crepe but smaller than regular pancakes, making them ideal for holding delicious toppings.

Smoked Salmon Blinis

The magic of Smoked Salmon Blinis is the mix of flavors and textures. You get the warm, soft pancake, the smooth and slightly salty salmon, and the cool creamy topping all in one bite. It feels fancy, but it’s actually quite simple to make at home. Even a 10-year-old can understand the steps and help with mixing or topping the blinis. These little bites look beautiful on a plate and taste even better!

You Should Try the Smoked Salmon Blinis

You should try Smoked Salmon Blinis because they are easy, impressive, and full of flavor. They are perfect if you want to make something that looks like it came from a restaurant but doesn’t take hours in the kitchen. Whether you are hosting a birthday party, a holiday brunch, or just want to surprise your family, these blinis will make everyone smile.

Another great reason to try them is how flexible and easy they are to customize. You can switch up the toppings, adjust the size to make them smaller or bigger, and even prepare some parts of the recipe ahead of time to save effort later. They work perfectly for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even as a tasty appetizer before dinner. After you make them once, you’ll realize just how simple, fun, and convenient they are to prepare again and again.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Ingredients you’ll need for Smoked Salmon Blinis

Here is everything you need to make Smoked Salmon Blinis:

For the Blinis:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter plus extra for cooking

For the Topping:

  • 200 grams smoked salmon, sliced thin
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese or sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill optional
  • Freshly ground black pepper optional

How to Make Smoked Salmon Blinis

Step 1

First, prepare the dry ingredients by placing the flour, baking powder, and salt into a medium mixing bowl. Use a whisk to gently mix everything together so the baking powder spreads evenly throughout the flour. This step is important because it helps the blinis rise evenly and become soft and fluffy when cooked.

Smoked Salmon Blinis

Step 2

In a separate small bowl, crack the egg and lightly beat it with a fork. Then pour in the milk and the melted butter, mixing until everything is well combined. Slowly pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients while whisking gently. Continue mixing just until the batter is smooth and there are no big lumps, but do not overmix because that can make the blinis tough instead of tender.

Step 3

Next, heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with a little butter. Once the pan is warm, use a small spoon to drop small circles of batter into the pan, about the size of a large coin. Leave some space between each one so they don’t stick together. Cook for about 1–2 minutes until small bubbles appear on the surface, then carefully flip them with a spatula and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.

Smoked Salmon Blinis

Step 4

After cooking all the blinis, place them on a plate and allow them to cool slightly. While they cool, mix the cream cheese or sour cream with lemon juice and chopped dill in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy. Spread a small amount of the creamy mixture on each blini, then top with a folded slice of smoked salmon. Finish with a tiny sprinkle of black pepper or extra dill if you like, and arrange them neatly on a serving plate.

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Kitchen equipment you will need :

Before you start, make sure you have these kitchen tools ready:

  • Mixing bowls one medium, one small
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Non-stick frying pan or skillet
  • Spatula
  • Small spoon for dropping batter
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Serving plate

Tips and Variation Ideas

Cut salmon slices into small strips for easier topping.

Add capers for a slightly tangy flavor.

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.

Do not cook on high heat or the blinis may burn before cooking inside.

What can I serve with this Smoked Salmon Blinis ?

I like making these smoked salmon blinis when I want something that feels elegant but still easy to put together. They’re perfect for small gatherings or relaxed weekend brunches, and my daughter enjoys helping me layer the salmon and toppings on each little pancake. I usually serve them with a simple green salad or a plate of fresh vegetables, and for drinks, sparkling water with lemon, orange juice, or a light fruit smoothie all work nicely. Light, savory, and easy to share, these blinis always make the table feel a little more special.

Smoked Salmon Blinis

Commonly Asked Questions

Can I freeze blinis ?

Yes, plain blinis freeze very well for up to 2 months. Just separate them with parchment paper before freezing.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free ?

Yes, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How long do topped blinis last in the fridge ?

It’s best to eat them the same day, but they can be stored for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.

What is the best way to reheat plain blinis ?

Warm them gently in a pan or microwave for a few seconds until soft and warm.

Smoked Salmon Blinis
Print

Smoked Salmon Blinis

Recipe by sophieCourse: Appetizers, BrunchCuisine: Eastern European, RussianDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

90

kcal
Total time

35

minutes

Smoked Salmon Blinis are soft, fluffy mini pancakes topped with creamy spread and delicate slices of smoked salmon. They are easy to make, look elegant, and are perfect for brunch, holidays, or special gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1 egg

  • 3/4 cup milk

  • 2 tablespoons melted butter plus extra for cooking

  • 200 grams smoked salmon, sliced thin

  • 1/2 cup cream cheese or sour cream

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill optional

  • Freshly ground black pepper optional

Directions

  • First, prepare the dry ingredients by placing the flour, baking powder, and salt into a medium mixing bowl. Use a whisk to gently mix everything together so the baking powder spreads evenly throughout the flour. This step is important because it helps the blinis rise evenly and become soft and fluffy when cooked.
  • In a separate small bowl, crack the egg and lightly beat it with a fork. Then pour in the milk and the melted butter, mixing until everything is well combined. Slowly pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients while whisking gently. Continue mixing just until the batter is smooth and there are no big lumps, but do not overmix because that can make the blinis tough instead of tender.
  • Next, heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with a little butter. Once the pan is warm, use a small spoon to drop small circles of batter into the pan, about the size of a large coin. Leave some space between each one so they don’t stick together. Cook for about 1–2 minutes until small bubbles appear on the surface, then carefully flip them with a spatula and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
  • After cooking all the blinis, place them on a plate and allow them to cool slightly. While they cool, mix the cream cheese or sour cream with lemon juice and chopped dill in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy. Spread a small amount of the creamy mixture on each blini, then top with a folded slice of smoked salmon. Finish with a tiny sprinkle of black pepper or extra dill if you like, and arrange them neatly on a serving plate.

Notes

  • Use fresh baking powder to ensure your blinis turn out light and fluffy.
  • Flip the blinis when small bubbles form on the surface.
  • Add a small squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, bright flavor.
  • Warm refrigerated blinis gently before serving for the best texture.

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