Creamy Crab Snacks
Creamy Crab Snacks are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that brings a touch of elegance to any gathering. Combining rich cream cheese, tender crab meat, and fresh green onions, these savory pockets are wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough for a perfect bite.
Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these snacks are sure to impress your guests with their creamy filling and golden-brown exterior. Quick to prepare and irresistibly tasty, they make for a fantastic starter or a fun addition to any meal!
Creamy Crab Snacks
Ingredients:
2 Green onions chopped
3 Oz. Cream cheese softened
¼ C. Mayonnaise
¼ C. Crab meat Cooked, chopped
8 Oz. Tube of crescent roll dough
Salt and black pepper to taste
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Instructions:
Heat the oven to 375 degrees, and spray a baking sheet well, or line it with parchment paper.
Lightly flour a countertop, and spread the dough out on it, pinching the seams closed.
Use a pizza cutter to slice the dough into 4 rows across, and 6 rows lengthwise, for a total of 24 rectangles of dough.
Mix together the remaining ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
Add a bit of the mixture to the center of each rectangle of dough.
Fold one corner to the other, and then the opposite corners to one another, to form a sealed pocket.
Place the crab snacks on the baking sheet, and bake for 10-15 minutes.
Notes:
Crab Meat: Use fresh, canned, or frozen crab meat. If using canned, make sure to drain it well. For a more luxurious option, lump crab meat is recommended.
Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing. If you’re short on time, you can microwave it for a few seconds, but be careful not to melt it.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to add additional ingredients like a splash of lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
Dough Alternatives: While crescent roll dough works great, you can also use puff pastry or biscuit dough for different textures.
Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference, or omit it altogether for a milder flavor.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the snacks as they bake; the time may vary depending on your oven. Look for a golden brown color as a sign they’re ready.
Serving Suggestions: These snacks are best served warm. Pair them with a dipping sauce, like a tangy cocktail sauce or a spicy aioli.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked pockets for up to a month. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Presentation: Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving for an added touch of color and flavor.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 24 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 90 kcal | Protein: 1.5g | Carbohydrates: 6g | Dietary Fiber: 0.2g | Sugars: 1g | Total Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2.5g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 170mg
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use imitation crab meat instead of real crab meat?
Yes, you can substitute imitation crab meat if you prefer or have dietary restrictions.
Ensure it’s finely chopped for even distribution.
What’s the purpose of pinching the seams closed on the crescent roll dough?
Pinching the seams closed helps prevent the filling from leaking out during baking and ensures a neater presentation.
Can I prepare the creamy crab mixture in advance?
Absolutely, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake the snacks.
How do I prevent the crescent roll dough from sticking to the countertop?
Lightly flouring the countertop helps prevent the dough from sticking.
Use just enough flour to create a non-stick surface.
Can I add other ingredients to the creamy crab mixture for more flavor?
Yes, feel free to customize the mixture by adding ingredients like finely diced bell peppers, fresh herbs, or a dash of hot sauce for added flavor.
Is there a recommended dipping sauce for these crab snacks?
A simple aioli, tartar sauce, or a squeeze of lemon can complement the flavors.
Experiment with your favorite dipping sauces.
Can I freeze these snacks for later use?
While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can freeze the unbaked pockets on a tray, then transfer them to a bag once solid.
Bake from frozen with a slightly longer cooking time.
What’s the ideal size for each crescent roll rectangle?
Aim for consistency by dividing the dough into 4 rows across and 6 rows lengthwise, creating 24 evenly sized rectangles.
Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise for a lighter version?
Yes, you can use reduced-fat or light versions of cream cheese and mayonnaise without sacrificing too much flavor.
How do I know when the crab snacks are done baking?
They are ready when the crescent roll dough turns golden brown, typically within 10-15 minutes.
Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.