Cheat’s Blinis with Jamon and Figs: A Quick Gourmet Delight
Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team
Every now and then, a delightful discovery takes place in my kitchen that makes me forget all about takeout. This recipe for Cheat s Blinis with Jamon and Figs is one of those joyous moments born out of creative impulses and a dash of pantry exploration.
Imagine the sweet aroma of dried figs softening in lush Pedro Ximenez sherry, boldly inviting a rich mascarpone and salty jamon to the party. As I assemble these elegant bites, I feel a sense of accomplishment that belies the ease of preparation. Perfect for impressing your guests or simply indulging at home, this dish is a sensory feast that hints at luxury without demanding all day in the kitchen.
The creamy mascarpone, paired with the prosciutto and figs, offers a blend of flavors that magically elevate even the simplest gatherings. In just a bit of time, you can create a platter that will have everyone coming back for more. Let s dive into this flavor-packed journey that s as satisfying to make as it is to enjoy!
Why is Cheat s Blinis with Jamon and Figs irresistible?
Simplicity Meets Elegance: This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a stunning dish that feels gourmet.
Quick Preparation: With only a soaking time of 2 hours, you can whip these up without lengthy commitments.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet figs, creamy mascarpone, and savory jamon delivers a taste sensation that will impress any palate.
Versatile Presentation: Serve them as elegant appetizers for parties or indulge yourself during a cozy night in.
Crowd-Pleaser: This delightful treat is sure to be a hit with family and friends, making it a must-try for your next gathering!
Cheat s Blinis with Jamon and Figs Ingredients
For the Figs
Dried dessert figs The sweet base for our dish, soaking them plumps them beautifully.
Pedro Ximenez sherry This rich, sweet sherry enhances the figs flavor; you can use another sweet variety if needed.
For the Blinis
Pikelet bites These mini pancakes serve as the perfect light base for your toppings.
For the Filling
Mascarpone cheese The creamy element that balances the flavors deliciously; feel free to swap with cream cheese if desired.
Sliced jamon or prosciutto Adds a savory salty note to each bite; you can substitute with any cured meat of your choice.
For Garnishing
Olive oil A drizzle elevates the dish and brings it all together for a luxurious finish.
Chervil or flat-leaf parsley sprigs These herbs provide a fresh pop of color and flavor, making your presentation irresistible!
How to Make Cheat s Blinis with Jamon and Figs
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Soak the figs in sherry for 2 hours. Place the dried dessert figs in a bowl and pour over the Pedro Ximenez sherry. Let them soak until they are plump and fully absorbed this enhances their sweetness!
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Prepare the pikelets on a platter. After the figs have absorbed the sherry, arrange the pikelet bites on a serving platter, ready for a delicious assembly.
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Spread each pikelet with mascarpone. Take a small amount of mascarpone cheese and spread it generously on top of each pikelet. This creamy layer will take your bites to the next level!
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Add a strip of jamon and a fig. Place a small scroll of jamon on each mascarpone-covered pikelet, followed by a piece of the soaked fig. This balance of flavors is what makes these bites irresistible!
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Season and drizzle. Finish off each bite by sprinkling a little sea salt and freshly ground black pepper on top. A light drizzle of olive oil will add richness and flavor.
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Garnish with herbs. Top the assembled bites with chervil or flat-leaf parsley sprigs to add a fresh, vibrant touch they also look stunning on your platter!
Optional: Serve with a glass of the same sherry for a delightful pairing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheat s Blinis with Jamon and Figs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can soak the dried figs in sherry up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to absorb the rich flavors and become plump and sweet. Additionally, you can prepare the mascarpone and jamon strips ahead store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When it s time to serve, simply assemble the bites on pikelet bites, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with fresh herbs. This method ensures your appetizer is just as delicious and visually stunning, giving you gourmet results with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Cheat s Blinis with Jamon and Figs
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Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality jamon and mascarpone for a richer flavor experience; this will significantly elevate your Cheat s Blinis.
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Soak Properly: Ensure you soak the figs long enough in the sherry until they ve absorbed all the liquid; under-soaked figs can be tough and less flavorful.
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Layer Carefully: When assembling, make sure to distribute the mascarpone evenly on each pikelet to prevent sogginess; it helps the flavors meld without overwhelming the base.
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Season Wisely: A sprinkle of sea salt and freshly ground pepper is key; it enhances the overall taste and balances the sweetness of the figs and richness of the jamon.
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Garnish for Color: Don t skip the herbs! A sprinkle of chervil or parsley adds not just color but also a fresh note that brightens the dish, making it visually appealing.
What to Serve with Cheat s Blinis with Jamon and Figs?
Completing your delightful platter of Cheat s Blinis with Jamon and Figs brings even more flavors to the table.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the mascarpone and complements the figs beautifully.
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Pine Nut and Spinach Pesto Pasta: The nuttiness of the pine nuts in the pesto pairs well with the figs sweetness, creating a well-rounded meal.
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Honey-Drizzled Ricotta Toast: The creaminess of ricotta with a touch of honey enhances the overall sweetness, making it a charming pairing alongside the blinis.
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Grilled Asparagus: The slight bitterness of grilled asparagus adds a lovely textural contrast, balancing the sweet and savory notes of the dish.
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Charcuterie Board: A selection of cheeses, nuts, and cured meats alongside your blinis invites guests to mix and match flavors, enhancing the tasting experience.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp, chilled white wine will elevate your gathering, harmonizing wonderfully with the sweet figs and salty jamon.
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Dark Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich chocolate mousse for dessert; its richness will seamlessly follow the elegant flavors of the blinis.
Crafting a meal that nourishes both the body and soul makes every gathering memorable!
How to Store and Freeze Cheat s Blinis with Jamon and Figs
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the assembled bites separate from the figs to maintain their texture.
Freezer: It s best not to freeze assembled Cheat s Blinis, as they can become soggy. However, you can freeze soaked figs in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: If the pikelet bites become cold, you can gently warm them in a toaster or oven for a few minutes. Avoid overheating to preserve the mascarpone s creamy texture.
Assembly Tips: For optimal freshness, prepare the Cheat s Blinis with Jamon and Figs just before serving to enjoy the best flavors and textures!
Cheat s Blinis with Jamon and Figs Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these irresistible bites to match your taste preferences and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute mascarpone with a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan-friendly option that still delivers creaminess.
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Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper or a slice of pickled jalapeño on each bite, elevating the flavor profile with a touch of heat.
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Hearty Twist: Swap pikelets for toasted baguette slices or crostini, providing a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
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Fruity Surprise: Replace figs with dried apricots or dates for a delightful variation that brings its own unique sweetness to the dish.
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Herb-Infused: Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint instead of chervil or parsley for a fresh twist that brightens every bite.
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Nutty Delight: Add a sprinkle of crushed nuts, like pistachios or walnuts, atop your assembled blinis for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
These variations allow you to tailor the experience, inviting everyone to indulge and enjoy this gourmet delight!
Cheat s Blinis with Jamon and Figs Recipe FAQs
How can I select the best dried figs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for dried figs that are plump and not overly hard. They should have a smooth surface without dark spots all over. If possible, choose organic figs for a more natural flavor.
How should I store leftovers of Cheat s Blinis with Jamon and Figs?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but it s best to keep the components separate. This way, the pikelet bites won t become soggy from the moisture in the figs and mascarpone.
Can I freeze the assembled Cheat s Blinis with Jamon and Figs?
It s not recommended to freeze assembled Cheat s Blinis since they can turn soggy. However, you can freeze the soaked figs themselves. Place them in a sealed container and pop them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw completely before using!
What should I do if my figs haven t absorbed all the sherry after soaking?
No worries! If your figs are still a bit firm after 2 hours, you can soak them for an additional 30 minutes. If they are still not absorbing much liquid, try microwaving them for about 15 seconds this can help open them up a bit more. Just be careful not to overdo it!
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pikelets. Additionally, for those who are lactose intolerant, try substituting the mascarpone with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Always be mindful of specific allergies, particularly with the meats and figs. Using care can certainly accommodate various dietary needs!