Print

Ina Garten Blini Recipe

Ina Garten Blini recipe

Blini are small Russian-style pancakes made with a light batter of flour, eggs, and milk. They are typically served as bite-sized appetizers and topped with savory ingredients like caviar, smoked salmon, or crème fraîche. Ina Garten’s version is simple, foolproof, and perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for cooking
  • Crème fraîche (for topping)
  • Caviar or smoked salmon (optional toppings)

Optional Toppings:

  • Chives (finely chopped)
  • Red onion (finely diced)
  • Dill sprigs

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  • Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
  • Whisk the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg, milk, and melted butter until well combined.
  • Combine the ingredients: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, whisking until smooth and lump-free. Let the batter rest for 10–15 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Blinis

  • Preheat the skillet: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter.
  • Cook the blinis: Drop small spoonfuls of batter (about 1 tablespoon each) onto the skillet. Cook for 1–2 minutes, until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden.
  • Transfer and repeat: Remove the cooked blinis to a plate and repeat with the remaining batter, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

  • Add toppings: Spread a dollop of crème fraîche on each blini and top with caviar, smoked salmon, or your choice of toppings.
  • Serve: Arrange the blinis on a platter and garnish with chives or dill if desired.