Blin (Блины) recipe photo: Thin Russian crepes served with butter, sour cream, jam, or caviar. Delicate and versatile

Blin (Блины)

dessert
easy

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Blini are thin yeast or non-yeast Russian pancakes traditionally served during Maslenitsa and year-round as a breakfast or dessert staple. They are known for their soft, flexible texture and golden lacy edges. Blini pair equally well with savory toppings like smoked fish and sour cream or sweet options such as honey and berry jam.

About This Dish

Blini are thin Russian crepes valued for their delicate texture and versatility across both sweet and savory toppings.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Servings
4

Region & Occasion

Russianbreakfastholidaydessert

Ingredients

  • 250 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
  • 500 ml (2 cups) milk
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for batter)
  • Extra butter or oil for pan
  • Sour cream, jam, or honey for serving

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1Whisk eggs, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
  2. 2Add half the milk, then whisk in flour until smooth.
    Blin (Блины) recipe, step 2: Add half the milk, then whisk in flour until smooth
  3. 3Add remaining milk gradually, whisking to a thin batter.
  4. 4Stir in melted butter and 1 tbsp oil. Rest batter for 20 minutes.
  5. 5Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it.
  6. 6Pour a small ladle of batter and swirl quickly into a thin circle.
    Blin (Блины) recipe, step 6: Pour a small ladle of batter and swirl quickly into a thin circle
  7. 7Cook until edges lift and bottom is golden, about 1 minute.
  8. 8Flip and cook the second side for 20-30 seconds.
    Blin (Блины) recipe, step 8: Flip and cook the second side for 20-30 seconds
  9. 9Transfer to a plate and brush lightly with butter.
  10. 10Repeat with remaining batter, stacking blini to keep them warm.
    Blin (Блины) recipe, step 10: Repeat with remaining batter, stacking blini to keep them warm
  11. 11Serve folded or rolled with sour cream, jam, or honey.

Cooking Tips

  • Rest batter before cooking for smoother texture and fewer tears.
  • Use medium heat to avoid browning too fast before flipping.
  • Stack finished blini and brush lightly with butter to keep them soft.

FAQ

Why do blini tear when flipping?

The batter may be too thick or under-rested. Thin it slightly with milk and let it rest before cooking.

Can I make blini ahead of time?

Yes. Cook and stack them, then reheat briefly in a pan or oven covered with foil.

Are blini only sweet?

No. They are also commonly served with savory fillings like sour cream, fish, mushrooms, or cheese.

Tags

#blini#crepes#Maslenitsa#Russian