Sometimes, it’s the little things that leave the biggest impression. That’s exactly what these smoked salmon blinis bring to your table. Perfect for brunches, cocktail hours, or a fancy breakfast twist, these bite-sized treats are simple yet elegant, making them a standout addition to your menu.
Whether you’re embracing a carnivore lifestyle or just looking to elevate your gatherings, this recipe combines creamy, savory, & fresh flavors into one irresistible bite.
Quick & Easy Smoked Salmon Blinis Recipe
- Yield: 10 bite-sized blinis (3–4 servings)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (excluding batter preparation)
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, divided, for the pan
- ½ batch all-purpose waffle batter (optional homemade batter)
- 5 ounces (10 tablespoons) cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces cold-smoked salmon
- Fresh dill sprigs, snipped into 10 small pieces, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat a medium-sized skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
- Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet, letting it melt fully. Drop 1 tablespoon of the batter onto the pan for each blini. Use the back of a spoon to gently spread the batter into small rounds, about 2 inches in diameter. Repeat until you have five blinis cooking at once.
- Cook each blini for about 2 minutes on the first side, or until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes to brown the other side evenly. Remove from the skillet & transfer to a plate to cool.
- Repeat the process with the remaining batter & butter to make five more blinis.
- Once the blinis have cooled, top each with 1 tablespoon of softened cream cheese. To achieve a polished look, pipe the cream cheese using a plastic bag with the corner snipped off.
- Place a small piece of smoked salmon on top of each blini, folding it to create a neat presentation.
- Finish with a delicate garnish of fresh dill for a pop of color & flavor, if desired.
Tips for Perfecting Your Blinis
- Batter Substitute: If you don’t have waffle batter, pancake batter works just as well. Opt for a low-carb version to keep it more carnivore-friendly.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the blinis in advance & refrigerate for up to two days. Assemble them right before serving to keep the flavors fresh.
- Customizations: Swap cream cheese for mascarpone for a milder, silkier texture. Want to add a tangy kick? A dollop of crème fraîche works wonders.
- Garnishing: While dill pairs beautifully with salmon, parsley or chives can add a fresh twist if dill isn’t your thing.
Why This Recipe Works
This smoked salmon blinis recipe is a showstopper that balances simplicity with sophistication. The blinis are fluffy yet sturdy enough to hold the creamy richness of the cream cheese & the luxurious, smoky depth of the salmon. Adding dill elevates the flavor profile with its fresh, herbal note, making each bite a harmonious blend of textures & tastes.
Beyond the Plate
These smoked salmon blinis are versatile beyond appetizers—they make excellent additions to brunch spreads or even quick snacks for special occasions. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, they transform everyday elements into a dish worthy of any celebration.
Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself, these blinis are proof that great things come in small packages.
Smoked Salmon Blinis
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons salted butter divided, for the pan
- ½ batch all-purpose waffle batter link optional for homemade batter
- 5 ounces 10 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces cold-smoked salmon
- Fresh dill sprigs snipped into 10 small pieces, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat a medium-sized skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
- Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet, letting it melt fully. Drop 1 tablespoon of the batter onto the pan for each blini. Use the back of a spoon to gently spread the batter into small rounds, about 2 inches in diameter. Repeat until you have five blinis cooking at once.
- Cook each blini for about 2 minutes on the first side, or until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes to brown the other side evenly. Remove from the skillet & transfer to a plate to cool.
- Repeat the process with the remaining batter & butter to make five more blinis.
- Once the blinis have cooled, top each with 1 tablespoon of softened cream cheese. To achieve a polished look, pipe the cream cheese using a plastic bag with the corner snipped off.
- Place a small piece of smoked salmon on top of each blini, folding it to create a neat presentation.
- Finish with a delicate garnish of fresh dill for a pop of color & flavor, if desired.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.