If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug wrapped in a delicate, golden fold, then you must try this Russian Blini (Stuffed Pancakes) Recipe. These tender, thin pancakes are not only simple to make but also endlessly versatile, offering a perfect canvas for both sweet and savory fillings. From classic caviar and smoked salmon to sweet cottage cheese or fruity jam, these blini carry the heart of traditional Russian breakfasts while inviting your own creative flair. Every bite delivers a delightful dance of textures and flavors that will quickly earn a special spot in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Russian Blini (Stuffed Pancakes) Recipe comes alive with just a handful of humble ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect batter that is light, fluffy, and golden with the slightest crisp around the edges.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and delicate softness of the blini.
- 1 ½ cups whole milk (warmed): Adds richness and moisture for tender pancakes.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and give the pancakes a light, airy texture.
- 2 tbsp melted butter (plus more for cooking): Infuses flavor and prevents sticking while cooking.
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar: Balances savory fillings with a subtle sweet note in the batter.
- ¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors to make each bite truly delightful.
- ½ tsp baking powder (optional): For fluffier pancakes, lending an extra spring in every bite.
- Assorted fillings: From sour cream and caviar to sweetened cottage cheese and jam, the choice is yours to customize each pancake.
How to Make Russian Blini (Stuffed Pancakes) Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder if you are using it. This creates the foundation of the batter, distributing sweetness and leavening evenly so your blini cook perfectly each time.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs then stir in the warm milk and melted butter. The warmth of the milk helps everything blend smoothly and ensures your batter won’t be lumpy.
Step 3: Create the Batter
Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while whisking continuously. This helps form a silky, smooth batter without any flour lumps. Once combined, let the batter rest for 15 to 20 minutes — this rest period allows the flour to absorb the liquids fully, resulting in tender, flexible pancakes.
Step 4: Cook the Blini
Heat a nonstick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat and lightly butter it. Pour about ¼ cup of batter into the pan, swirling to create a thin, even circle. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the edges lift and the bottom turns golden. Flip carefully and cook for another 30 to 60 seconds. Transfer the blin to a plate and continue with the remaining batter, adding more butter as needed for that irresistible golden finish.
Step 5: Assemble and Stuff
Once your blini are cooked, it’s time to bring in the fillings. Spoon your favorite choice onto each blin and roll or fold them up beautifully. Whether you prefer savory smoked salmon with sour cream or sweetened cottage cheese topped with jam, the combinations are endless and always delicious.
How to Serve Russian Blini (Stuffed Pancakes) Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Russian Blini (Stuffed Pancakes) Recipe is where you can truly express your personality. Fresh herbs like dill, lemon wedges for zest, or a dollop of sour cream add charm and elevate the dish’s flavor. A sprinkle of chives or a touch of caviar brings that authentic touch and vibrant pop of color that makes every bite a treat for the eyes as well as the palate.
Side Dishes
Pair these blini with complementary sides for a complete Russian-inspired meal. A crisp cucumber salad or pickled vegetables balance the richness of the fillings perfectly. For a heartier experience, a bowl of borscht or a simple beet salad alongside works beautifully to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests? Serve your stuffed pancakes on a large platter, layering savory and sweet varieties side by side, letting everyone pick their favorite. For a festive touch, stack blini in a tower or create bite-sized blini rolls secured with a toothpick—easy finger food that’s as elegant as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover blini keep wonderfully in the fridge for up to two days. Simply stack them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking and cover tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight container. They maintain their soft texture and taste fresh when properly stored.
Freezing
Want to enjoy this Russian Blini (Stuffed Pancakes) Recipe on demand? Freeze cooked blini in a single layer on parchment paper, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method keeps them from sticking together and ensures you can easily pull out just the amount you need for a quick, cozy meal.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or frozen blini gently in a warm skillet with a little butter or in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. This way, you’ll revive that tender texture and comforting warmth, making them just as tasty as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to make the batter fresh or allow it to rest just 15 to 20 minutes before cooking. Resting longer can lead to over-fermentation, which might affect the flavor and texture of the blini.
What fillings work best for Russian Blini (Stuffed Pancakes) Recipe?
Traditional savory fillings include sour cream, caviar, smoked salmon, or sautéed mushrooms, while sweet options like sweetened cottage cheese and fruit jam also shine. Feel free to mix and match your favorites for a personalized treat.
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour works best for a tender yet sturdy blin, but you can experiment with buckwheat flour for a more authentic Russian flavor and a slightly nuttier taste.
How thin should I make the blini?
The key to perfect blini is a thin layer of batter in the pan, similar to crepes. Thin blini cook quickly and stay soft and pliable, making them easier to fill and roll.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! The blini batter itself is vegetarian, and you can choose fillings that fit any dietary preference, whether savory vegetables or sweet jams.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making and sharing this Russian Blini (Stuffed Pancakes) Recipe. It’s not just about the delicious flavors but the warmth and joy that comes with preparing food meant to be savored with loved ones. Whether you stick to traditional fillings or explore your own, these blini bring a lovely touch of Russian culinary tradition right to your table. Go ahead and give the recipe a try—you might just discover your new favorite breakfast or snack!
Print
Russian Blini (Stuffed Pancakes) Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 blini
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Russian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic Russian Blini are thin, delicate pancakes perfect for stuffing with an array of savory or sweet fillings. Made with a simple batter of flour, milk, eggs, and butter, these versatile crepes can be filled with sour cream, caviar, smoked salmon, sautéed mushrooms, sweetened cottage cheese, or jam, making them ideal for breakfast or festive occasions.
Ingredients
Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk, warmed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp melted butter, plus more for cooking
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp baking powder (optional, for fluffier texture)
Fillings (optional)
- Sour cream
- Caviar
- Smoked salmon
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Sweetened cottage cheese
- Jam
Instructions
- Prepare dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder if using to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Then stir in the warmed whole milk and melted butter until combined thoroughly to create a smooth liquid mixture.
- Combine batter: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while whisking continuously to prevent lumps, resulting in a smooth, thin batter. Let rest for 15–20 minutes to allow the flour to hydrate fully.
- Heat the pan: Place a nonstick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat and lightly coat it with butter to prevent sticking and to add flavor.
- Cook blini: Pour about ¼ cup of batter into the pan, swirling it to form a thin, even layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes or until the edges begin to lift and the bottom is golden brown. Flip carefully and cook for another 30–60 seconds on the other side.
- Repeat and keep warm: Transfer cooked blini to a plate and repeat the cooking process with the remaining batter. Keep the finished blini warm until all are cooked.
- Fill and serve: Fill each blin with your chosen savory or sweet filling such as sour cream and caviar or jam, then roll or fold as desired. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Blini can be made ahead and reheated in a skillet or microwave for convenience.
- They freeze well if layered between parchment paper in an airtight container, making them great for meal prep.
- Experiment with both sweet and savory fillings to create a traditional Russian spread that suits any palate.
