Canapés are small, bite-sized appetizers that are perfect for parties, gatherings, or special occasions. They are easy to make, elegant to serve, and delicious to eat. In this article, I will show you how to make four different types of canapés inspired by the famous British baker and cook, Mary Berry. These are:
- Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Blinis
- Mini Sausage Rolls with Honey and Mustard
- Cheese and Onion Tartlets
- Chocolate and Orange Mini Cakes
You will learn how to prepare the ingredients, assemble the canapés, and bake them in the oven. You will also get some tips and tricks on how to make them ahead of time, store them, and reheat them. By following this complete step-by-step guide, you will be able to impress your guests with these delightful and tasty canapés.
What are Mary Berry Canapés?
Mary Berry Canapés are a collection of small, elegant appetizers that combine a base, such as bread or pastry, with various toppings and garnishes. Inspired by the famous British baker and cook Mary Berry, these bite-sized treats are perfect for entertaining, offering a range of flavors and textures to suit any occasion.
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Why You Love This Recipe
These canapés are not just a treat to the taste buds but also a joy to make. Here’s why they are so beloved:
- Variety: A range of options from savory to sweet means there’s something for everyone.
- Elegance: They add a touch of sophistication to any event.
- Simplicity: Instructions are straightforward, making them accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
- Customizable: Easily adapted to cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
To make Mary Berry canapés, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Canapés:
For the smoked salmon and cream cheese blinis:
- 100g plain flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 large egg
- 150ml milk
- Salt and pepper
- Vegetable oil
- 200g cream cheese
- 150g smoked salmon
- Fresh dill
For the mini sausage rolls with honey and mustard:
- 500g ready-made puff pastry
- Flour, for dusting
- 400g sausage meat
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp wholegrain mustard
- 1 egg, beaten
- Sesame seeds
For the cheese and onion tartlets:
- 375g ready-made shortcrust pastry
- Flour, for dusting
- 25g butter
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper
- 150ml double cream
- 2 eggs
- 100g mature cheddar cheese, grated
For the chocolate and orange mini cakes:
- 175g butter, softened
- 175g caster sugar
- 3 eggs
- 150g self-raising flour
- 25g cocoa powder
- 1 orange, zest and juice
- 100g dark chocolate, chopped
- 50g icing sugar
- 12 mini paper cases
Useful Equipment:
- A large mixing bowl
- A whisk
- A small frying pan
- A palette knife
- A baking sheet
- A wire rack
- A rolling pin
- A sharp knife
- A pastry brush
- A muffin tin
- A small saucepan
- A wooden spoon
- A mini cake tin
- A skewer
- A small microwave-safe bowl
- A piping bag
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Canapés Recipe
Step 1: Make the Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Blinis
Blinis are small, thin pancakes that are traditionally served with caviar and sour cream in Russia. They are also a popular base for canapés, as they are light and fluffy, and can be topped with various ingredients. In this recipe, we will use smoked salmon and cream cheese, which are a classic combination that goes well with the delicate flavor of the blinis.
To make the blinis, follow these steps:
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, and make a well in the center.
- In a small jug, whisk together the egg and milk. Gradually pour the mixture into the well, whisking constantly, until you have a smooth and thick batter.
- Heat a small frying pan over medium-high heat, and lightly grease it with some vegetable oil. Drop a teaspoonful of batter onto the pan, and cook for about a minute, or until bubbles appear on the surface. Flip the blini over, and cook for another minute, or until golden. Transfer to a wire rack, and repeat with the rest of the batter. You should have about 24 blinis.
- To assemble the canapés, spread some cream cheese over each blini. Top with a slice of smoked salmon, and garnish with a sprig of fresh dill.
Step 2: Make the Mini Sausage Rolls with Honey and Mustard
Sausage rolls are a British staple, which consists of sausage meat wrapped in puff pastry and baked until crisp and golden. They are usually served as a snack or a picnic food, but they can also be made into mini versions for canapés. In this recipe, we will add some honey and mustard to the sausage meat, which will give it a sweet and tangy flavor.
To make the mini sausage rolls, follow these steps:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a large rectangle, about 3mm thick. Cut it into two long strips, about 10cm wide each.
- In a small bowl, mix together the sausage meat, honey, and mustard. Season with salt and pepper, and divide the mixture into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a long sausage, and place it along the edge of one of the pastry strips. Brush the opposite edge with some beaten egg, and fold the pastry over the sausage, pressing the edges to seal. Cut the pastry into 12 equal pieces, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the other pastry strip and sausage mixture.
- Brush the tops of the sausage rolls with some more beaten egg, and sprinkle some sesame seeds over them. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden, and the sausage meat is cooked through.
Step 3: Make the Cheese and Onion Tartlets
Tartlets are small, open-faced pies that are filled with various ingredients and baked in a pastry crust. They are a versatile and elegant option for canapés, as they can be made with different fillings and flavors. In this recipe, we will use cheese and onion, which are a classic and comforting combination that will please any crowd.
To make the cheese and onion tartlets, follow these steps:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) and lightly grease a 12-hole muffin tin.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the shortcrust pastry into a thin sheet, about 2mm thick. Cut out 12 circles, about 10cm in diameter each, using a cookie cutter or a glass. Press the pastry circles into the prepared muffin tin, and prick the bases with a fork. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- In a small saucepan over low-medium heat, melt the butter and cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes, or until soft and caramelized. Add the thyme leaves and season with salt and pepper. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cream and eggs. Season with salt and pepper, and stir in the cheese.
- Spoon the onion mixture evenly into the pastry cases, and pour the cream mixture over them. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the filling is set and firm.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate and Orange Mini Cakes
Mini cakes are small, individual-sized cakes that are baked in a mini cake tin or a muffin tin. They are a great choice for canapés, as they are easy to serve and eat, and can be decorated with various toppings and icings. In this recipe, we will use chocolate and orange, which are a delicious and festive combination that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
To make the chocolate and orange mini cakes, follow these steps:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a 12-hole mini cake tin or a muffin tin with mini paper cases.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Sift in the flour and cocoa powder, and fold in gently. Stir in the orange zest and juice, and fold in the chopped chocolate.
- Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared paper cases, filling them about two-thirds full. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Transfer to a wire rack, and let them cool completely.
- To make the icing, put the icing sugar and the remaining orange juice in a small microwave-safe bowl, and heat for about 10 seconds, or until the sugar dissolves. Stir well, and transfer to a piping bag. Drizzle the icing over the mini cakes, and let it set.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Canapés
Pairing the right items with your canapés can elevate the entire eating experience.
Here are some suggestions:
- Beverages: Select drinks that complement the flavors of the canapés, such as wine or cocktails.
- Complementary Dishes: Offer a balance of dishes, including fresh salads and fruit platters, to round out the meal.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Canapés
Achieving perfection with canapés is all about attention to detail.
Here are some tips to ensure success:
- Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Preparation: Many components can be prepared in advance, easing last-minute stress.
- Consistency: Keep canapés bite-sized and consistent in size for easy eating and a neat presentation.
- Visual Appeal: Remember, we eat with our eyes first, so make them as attractive as they are delicious.
Variations of Mary Berry Canapés
Canapés are incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous adaptations and variations to suit any occasion or dietary need:
- Adapt for Dietary Restrictions: Alter recipes for gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian guests.
- Seasonal Ingredients: Use what’s fresh and in season for the best flavors.
- Cultural Twists: Incorporate elements from different cuisines to add an international flair.
How Do I Store Mary Berry Canapés Leftovers?
Proper storage is key to enjoying your canapés even after the party’s over.
Here’s how:
Refrigeration
- Cooling: Ensure all items are at room temperature to avoid condensation and sogginess.
- Container: Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
- Layering: Separate layers with wax or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing (If Applicable)
- Freezing Technique: Freeze them individually first on a tray before transferring them to a container to prevent them from sticking together.
- Labeling: Always label with the date and contents for easy identification later.
How Do I Reheat Mary Berry Canapés Leftovers?
Reheating canapés so they retain their original texture and flavor is crucial.
Here’s the best way to do it:
- Oven Reheating: Gently reheat in a preheated oven to preserve the texture of the base and toppings.
- Microwave Caution: Avoid using a microwave as it can make the bases soft and chewy.
- Attention to Detail: Keep a close eye during reheating to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
What are Canapés?
Canapés are a type of hors d’oeuvre, which means “outside the work” in French. They are usually served before the main course of a meal, or as a snack or finger food. They are meant to stimulate the appetite and provide a variety of flavors and textures.
Canapés consist of three elements: a base, a topping, and a garnish. The base is usually a small piece of bread, pastry, or cracker. The topping is a savory or sweet spread, such as cheese, meat, fish, or jam. The garnish is a decorative and edible item, such as a herb, a fruit, or a nut.
Canapés can be hot or cold, depending on the ingredients and the occasion. They can be made in different shapes and sizes, depending on the preference and the number of guests. They can be simple or elaborate, depending on the skill and the creativity of the cook.
How do I prevent the scones from becoming tough?
The key to making light and fluffy scones is to handle the dough as little as possible. Do not overmix or over-knead the dough, and use a gentle touch when rolling and cutting it. You can also chill the dough before baking, to prevent the butter from melting too quickly in the oven.
What kind of cheese can I use for the tartlets?
You can use any kind of cheese that melts well and has a strong flavor, such as cheddar, gruyere, or gouda. You can also mix different cheeses together, or add some herbs or spices for extra flavor.
How do I make the mini cakes more moist?
You can add some yogurt, sour cream, or buttermilk to the batter, to increase the moisture and tenderness of the mini cakes. You can also brush some orange syrup or liqueur over the mini cakes after baking, to enhance the flavor and moistness.
Can I make the canapés ahead of time and freeze them?
Yes, you can make the canapés ahead of time and freeze them for up to a month. To freeze them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container, and label them with the date and the type of canapé. To serve, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat or serve them as instructed in the recipe.
Final Words
I hope you enjoyed this article, and learned how to make Mary Berry canapés. These are four simple and delicious recipes that you can try at home, and impress your guests with. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual get-together, a formal dinner party, or a festive celebration. They are easy to make, elegant to serve, and delicious to eat.
If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, please feel free to leave them below. I would love to hear from you, and see how your canapés turned out. Thank you for reading, and happy baking!