There’s something smugly satisfying about setting down a plate of Cocktail Blini — the kind of appetizer that makes you look like you threw a dinner party on a Tuesday just because you felt like it. These golden little pancakes wear their toppings like couture: a dollop of crème fraîche, a silky ribbon of smoked salmon, and maybe a glint of roe if you’re feeling extra. They’re bite-sized but big on drama, and the best part? They take less time than scrolling Instagram while you “decide what to eat.”
Cocktail Blini are your shortcut to looking polished without actually polishing silver. A few pantry staples, a skillet, and some fridge friends like salmon and sour cream, and you’re pulling off a recipe that feels far fancier than the effort behind it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Pantry-friendly magic: Flour, milk, and an egg are all you really need for the base.
- Elevated in minutes: Blini cook up in under 10 minutes, toppings go on in seconds.
- Endlessly versatile: Go classic with salmon, or swap for roasted veggies, prosciutto, or even jam for sweet party bites.
- Dinner party energy, Tuesday effort: Chic without the stress.
- Toddler-friendly option: Serve plain with butter or cream cheese — soft, mild, and hand-held.
Tips, Tricks & Variations
- Make ahead: Cook your blini earlier in the day, then reheat in a warm oven before topping.
- Dairy swaps: Crème fraîche is luxe, but sour cream or even Greek yogurt can step in if that’s what you have.
- Play with toppings: Think herby whipped ricotta, pesto and mozzarella pearls, or a spoonful of jam with a crumble of feta for a sweet-salty twist.
- Mini pancakes forever: If you have leftover batter, use it for breakfast the next morning. A drizzle of honey makes them feel brand new.
Serving & Pairings
Pair Cocktail Blini with a crisp glass of bubbles (champagne if you’re feeling flush, prosecco if you’re practical). They also play nicely with a sharp gin cocktail or even a sparkling water with lemon — because chic doesn’t have to mean boozy.
FAQ
Can I make blini ahead of time?
Yes. Cook them a few hours before, keep covered at room temp, then refresh in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes before topping.
Do I need to use smoked salmon?
Not at all. Try prosciutto, roasted red peppers, or even a spoon of store-bought tapenade for a vegetarian-friendly spin.
Can I freeze blini?
You can — stack with parchment between, freeze flat, then reheat in the oven or toaster before topping.
Cocktail Blini
Ingredients
Blini Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or neutral oil
Toppings
- 1/2 cup crème fraîche or sour cream
- 3 ounces smoked salmon thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives finely chopped
- Optional: a few teaspoons salmon roe or capers
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add egg, milk, and melted butter; whisk until smooth and just combined.
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease if needed.
- Drop batter by the teaspoon to form mini pancakes about 2 inches wide.
- Cook 1–2 minutes per side until golden and puffed. Transfer to a plate to cool slightly.
- Top each blini with a small dollop of crème fraîche, a fold of smoked salmon, and a sprinkle of chives. Add roe or capers if using.