If you are craving something that gracefully balances delicate, fluffy pancakes with the smoky richness of salmon and the creamy tang of cheese, you have to try this Blini with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Recipe. Every bite feels like a little celebration—light, buttery blinis topped with luscious cream cheese and velvety smoked salmon, brightened up with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon. It’s a dish that’s as elegant on a festive table as it is as a comforting snack, making it a true favorite to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together in harmony to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. From the earthiness of buckwheat flour to the refreshing pop of dill, each element has a role in making these blinis irresistibly delicious and visually appealing.
- Warm water (3 tbsp): Activates the yeast, crucial for that perfect, airy blini texture.
- Dry yeast (1/2 tsp): Helps to give the blinis their signature lightness.
- White sugar (3/4 tsp): Just a touch to feed the yeast and add subtle sweetness.
- Plain flour (1/3 cup): The foundation of the batter, providing structure.
- Buckwheat flour (1/3 cup): Adds a nutty flavor and beautiful color contrast to the blinis.
- Cooking/kosher salt (1/8 tsp): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Full-fat warm milk (1/3 cup): Ensures a smooth batter and tender crumb.
- Unsalted butter, melted and cooled (2 tbsp/30g): Contributes richness and helps with browning.
- Large egg, lightly beaten (1): Binds the mixture and enriches the batter.
- Canola spray: For cooking, to get lovely golden blinis without sticking.
- Cream cheese, softened (125g/4 oz): Provides the creamy tang that pairs beautifully with smoked salmon.
- Crème fraîche or sour cream (3/4 cup): Adds a luxurious, tangy base for the blini toppings.
- Fresh dill, finely chopped (2 tsp): Brings a burst of herby brightness and classic pairing with salmon.
- Lemon juice (1 tsp): Adds a refreshing zing that lifts the flavors.
- Cooking/kosher salt (1/4 tsp): Perfectly seasons the creamy topping.
- White pepper (a pinch): Provides gentle heat to the cream cheese mixture without overwhelming.
- Smoked salmon (300g/10 oz): The star ingredient, rich, silky, and full of flavor.
- Extra fresh dill: For garnishing, making your presentation pop.
How to Make Blini with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Blini Batter
Begin by dissolving the dry yeast and sugar in warm water to awaken the yeast and kickstart the rising process, which will give you those light and fluffy blinis we crave. Combine the plain and buckwheat flours along with salt in a bowl, then gradually whisk in the warm milk, followed by the melted butter and beaten egg. This mixture should be smooth and slightly thick, the ideal consistency for small pancakes that will cook up beautifully golden.
Step 2: Cook the Blinis
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly spray with canola oil. Using a tablespoon, pour batter into the pan to form small, evenly sized rounds. Cook each blini for 1 to 2 minutes per side until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set, then flip to achieve a golden brown finish. Transfer cooked blinis to a plate and cover gently with foil to keep warm while you make the topping.
Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Topping
In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with crème fraîche, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and white pepper until smooth and well combined. This creamy spread is what transforms the blinis from simple pancakes to something truly special—rich, tangy, and aromatic, pairing perfectly with the smoky fish.
Step 4: Assemble the Blinis
Once your blinis are cooked and your cream cheese mixture is ready, spread a generous dollop on each small pancake. Then artfully layer a slice of smoked salmon on top. Garnish with a sprig of fresh dill for a touch of color and a hint of extra herbal fragrance. There you have it—elegant bites ready to impress!
How to Serve Blini with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like dill, chives, or even tiny capers work wonderfully as garnishes, adding bursts of flavor that complement the creamy and smoky elements. A thin twist of lemon zest or a light drizzle of good olive oil can elevate the dish even further.
Side Dishes
Light, crisp sides such as a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or marinated cucumber ribbons provide refreshing contrasts. If you want something heartier, a bowl of chilled beetroot soup or a delicate fennel salad pairs beautifully without stealing the spotlight from the blinis.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the blinis stacked with layers of cream cheese and salmon for a mini tower effect, or arrange them on a large platter in a decorative pattern to wow your guests. Using edible flowers or microgreens for garnish adds a wow factor that makes this dish a showstopper at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover blinis can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the cream cheese mixture and smoked salmon separate to maintain freshness and prevent the blinis from becoming soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked blinis by stacking them with parchment paper between each and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Avoid freezing the assembled blinis as the toppings don’t freeze well.
Reheating
To reheat blinis, gently warm them in a dry skillet over low heat or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until just warmed through. This helps retain their texture perfectly without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I make blinis without buckwheat flour?
Absolutely! Using only plain flour will still yield delicious blinis though the subtle nutty flavor and darker color from buckwheat will be missing. If you don’t have buckwheat flour, feel free to substitute with all-purpose flour and enjoy the traditional taste.
What can I use instead of crème fraîche?
Sour cream is a common and excellent alternative to crème fraîche. It offers a similar tanginess and creaminess that balances the smoked salmon nicely without dramatically changing the flavor profile.
How can I make my blinis fluffier?
Make sure your yeast is fresh and that you give the batter enough time to rest and rise before cooking. Also, avoid stirring the batter too much once the yeast has been activated as this can deflate the bubbles that give the blinis their fluffiness.
Is there a substitute for smoked salmon?
If smoked salmon isn’t your favorite, consider smoked trout or even thin slices of smoked mackerel. Both have a lovely smoky depth that pairs wonderfully with cream cheese and fresh herbs.
Can I prepare the cream cheese mixture ahead of time?
Yes, the cream cheese topping can be mixed up to a day in advance. Keep it covered and refrigerated to preserve its freshness and flavor, giving you more time to focus on cooking the blinis when the moment arrives.
Final Thoughts
Making this Blini with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Recipe is like treating yourself to a little gourmet experience at home. It’s simple enough to make any day but special enough to impress when friends or family stop by. I wholeheartedly encourage you to whip up a batch—you’ll find the perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and fluffy that keeps you coming back for more, every single time.
