Perfect Midnight Caviar Blini Recipe Easy Homemade Blini with Crème Fraîche and Dill
Light, fluffy homemade blini topped with tangy crème fraîche, fresh dill, and briny caviar. A quick and elegant snack perfect for midnight indulgence or entertaining guests.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 16 blini) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Russian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour (or half buckwheat flour for lighter texture)
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- ¾ cup (180ml) warm milk (around 100°F/38°C)
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (120ml) crème fraîche
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 ounces (about 60g) caviar (sturgeon or salmon roe recommended)
- Fresh lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, whisk together warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until bubbly and frothy.
- Prepare the batter: In a larger bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter. Whisk gently until smooth and pourable. Add a splash of milk if too thick.
- Let the batter rest: Cover loosely and leave in a warm spot for 30–45 minutes until bubbly and risen.
- Heat the pan: Warm a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and lightly brush with butter or oil.
- Cook the blini: Using a tablespoon or small scoop, pour batter onto skillet forming 2-inch rounds. Cook 1–2 minutes until bubbles form and edges set, then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
- Keep warm: Transfer cooked blini to a plate and cover loosely with foil or towel.
- Assemble and serve: Spoon crème fraîche onto each blini, sprinkle chopped dill, top with caviar, and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.
Notes
Use medium-low heat to avoid burning. Let batter rest for fluffiness. Keep cooked blini covered to stay tender. For gluten-free, substitute flour with gluten-free blend or buckwheat flour and adjust milk as needed. Add lemon zest to crème fraîche for brightness. Assemble toppings just before serving to maintain texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 4 blini with t
- Calories: 235
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 375
- Fat: 16.5
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 16.5
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 8
Keywords: blini, caviar, crème fraîche, dill, appetizer, easy recipe, homemade blini, elegant snack, midnight snack