Russian Raised Pancakes(Blini)
Russian Blini are light, fluffy pancakes with a slightly tangy flavor from sour cream, perfect for breakfast or appetizers, suited for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 1 cup of milk to 105 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Pour the heated milk into a large bowl and stir in yeast and 2 cups of flour. Mix until smooth.
- Cover the bowl and set in a warm place for 1 hour or until the batter doubles in size.
- Stir down the batter with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in egg yolks, melted butter, sugar, salt, and remaining flour, alternating with remaining milk, until the mixture is almost smooth.
- Cover the bowl and let it sit for 45 minutes to an hour or until the batter doubles in size again.
- Stir down the batter.
- Beat egg whites to stiff peaks and gently fold into the batter.
- Pour 1/3 cup of batter onto a lightly greased griddle or frying pan for each pancake.
- Fry over medium heat for about 4 minutes, turning once, until golden brown.
- Garnish with 1 tablespoon of sour cream on each pancake and roll it up.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks before folding them into the batter. You can substitute buttermilk for milk for a tangy flavor. If you don't have active dry yeast, instant yeast can be used in the same quantity. When frying, use vegetable oil for a neutral flavor, or try butter for a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
These blini are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by pairing with savory or sweet toppings. Consider serving with smoked salmon or caviar for a traditional approach. They also pair beautifully with 1 1/2 cup sour cream, which complements the pancakes perfectly. For a dessert option, try adding fresh berries or a drizzle of honey.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a toaster or microwave until warm. For best results, reheat on a skillet over medium heat to retain some crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Russian Raised Pancakes(Blini) contains roughly 113 calories, with 8g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance. After mixing, cover it and store it in the refrigerator. Just allow it to come to room temperature and stir gently before frying.
What can I serve with blini?
Blini are versatile and can be served with various toppings. Try them with savory options like smoked salmon or sautéed mushrooms, or sweet toppings like fruit preserves or whipped cream. They also pair well with Mint Chocolate Cocoa Mix for a delightful beverage.
Can I freeze the pancakes?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked pancakes by placing parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator and warm in the toaster or on a skillet.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).