Name: Crab Crunchies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup lump crab meat (picked over for shells); 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened); 1 tablespoon mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon sour cream; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; 2 green onions (finely chopped); 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese; 20–24 wonton wrappers or small phyllo cups; olive oil spray or melted butter for brushing

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If you’re searching for a show-stopping party snack or an appetizer that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe, look no further than Crab Crunchies. These delectable bites combine creamy crab filling with a golden, crispy shell, making them utterly irresistible for seafood lovers and snack enthusiasts alike. Quick to whip up and packed with flavor, they’re equally ideal for casual gatherings, special occasions, or even an upscale brunch spread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Crab Crunchies comes from a few carefully selected ingredients that work together to create an unforgettable taste and texture. Each component is essential—whether for creamy richness, bright pops of flavor, or that all-important perfect crunch.

Crab Meat: Use fresh or good-quality lump crab meat for sweet flavor and meaty bites—always picked over carefully for shells.
Cream Cheese: Softened for easy mixing, this gives our filling that signature creamy base.
Mayonnaise: Just a touch adds tanginess and keeps the filling luxuriously smooth.
Sour Cream: Brings lightness and a gentle tart note that balances the richness.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory, umami boost that enhances the crab’s natural depth.
Garlic Powder: Lends a subtle hint of garlicky warmth, without overpowering other flavors.
Old Bay Seasoning: The classic seafood spice! This delivers a signature coastal punch.
Green Onions: Finely chopped for a burst of freshness and color in every bite.
Shredded Cheese: Mozzarella or cheddar bring gooey meltiness and an extra savory note.
Wonton Wrappers or Phyllo Cups: These form the crunchy, golden shell that gives Crab Crunchies their irresistible texture.
Olive Oil Spray or Melted Butter: Brush or spray the edges for next-level crisp and a beautiful golden finish.

How to Make Crab Crunchies

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pans

Begin by setting your oven to 375°F—this is just the right temperature for a delicate crunch and bubbling filling. Lightly grease a mini muffin tin (if using wonton wrappers) or, for an easier cleanup, line a baking sheet with parchment if you’re working with premade phyllo cups. This little bit of prep ensures your Crab Crunchies come out perfectly golden and easy to remove.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Crab Mixture

Grab a medium mixing bowl and add all your filling ingredients: crab meat, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, chopped green onions, and your choice of mozzarella or cheddar cheese. Mix gently yet thoroughly—take care not to break up the crab too much. What you’re looking for is a smooth, thick, and well-blended mixture with lovely little flecks of green and creamy richness.

Step 3: Assemble the Crunchy Shells

If you’re using wonton wrappers, gently press one into each mini muffin cup, forming a little shell with an open top. For phyllo cups, simply arrange them on your baking sheet. This is where the signature crunch begins! Each shell is now ready to cradle the luscious crab filling.

Step 4: Fill Each Cup

Spoon about a tablespoon of the crab mixture into every shell, being generous but not overfilling. The goal is for each Crab Crunchie to be plump and satisfying, without overflowing in the oven. This part is honestly fun—like stuffing tiny edible baskets with treasure!

Step 5: Brush for Extra Crispiness

Now, lightly brush or spray the tops and edges of your wrappers (or cups) with olive oil or melted butter. This step is quick but packs a punch—it ensures a shatteringly crisp, golden brown finish that makes each bite a genuine treat.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Slide your tray into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye out for bubbling cheese and edges that turn a deep, golden hue—that’s your cue they’re ready! Let your Crab Crunchies cool just a bit before serving, so no one burns their eager fingers.

How to Serve Crab Crunchies

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh green onion or chopped parsley on top highlights their savory appeal and adds a pop of color. For a bright finishing touch, serve with lemon wedges—just a little squeeze over a warm Crab Crunchie brings out the seafood sweetness. You could also dollop each with a spoonful of spicy mayo or remoulade for flavor and flair.

Side Dishes

Crab Crunchies shine alongside a crisp side salad or a slaw bursting with citrusy dressing. For parties, a platter with lightly pickled veggies, cucumber spears, or sliced radish balances the richness. Consider offering other finger-friendly bites to create a festive, mix-and-match appetizer spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with presentation—try stacking Crab Crunchies on a tiered serving tray for eye-catching height. For casual get-togethers, line up rows on a wooden board with dipping sauces nestled among them. Or, plate a few Crab Crunchies atop a small greens salad for an elegant starter at a sit-down dinner. They’re as versatile as they are delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Crab Crunchies (a rarity!), let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep their flavor and structure for up to two days, but always taste best fresh and crispy.

Freezing

Crab Crunchies can be frozen—assemble and fill the shells, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to a month. Bake directly from frozen, adding just a couple of minutes to the baking time for that fresh-from-the-oven crispiness.

Reheating

To revive that irresistible crunch, reheat Crab Crunchies in a 350°F oven or air fryer for 5 to 7 minutes. Skip the microwave to avoid a soggy shell! They’ll come out bubbly, hot, and tasting just as fierce as the day they were made.

FAQs

Can I use canned crab meat for Crab Crunchies?

Absolutely! While fresh or refrigerated lump crab gives the most luxurious texture, high-quality canned crab works beautifully and makes this recipe even more accessible. Just drain thoroughly and gently pat dry before mixing to prevent excess moisture.

Can I prepare Crab Crunchies in advance?

Yes, you can mix the filling the night before and keep it chilled. For the crispiest shells, assemble and bake just before serving. If you need to bake ahead, briefly reheat in the oven right before guests arrive.

What dipping sauces pair well with Crab Crunchies?

Classic choices include lemony aioli, remoulade, tartar sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo. They also taste fantastic on their own, but a dipping sauce makes for a fun and interactive party snack experience.

Can I make Crab Crunchies gluten-free?

Definitely! Use gluten-free wonton wrappers or phyllo cups (available at many specialty or large grocery stores), and confirm all seasonings and sauces are certified gluten-free. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free.

Are there other cheeses I can use in the filling?

Certainly. Mozzarella and cheddar are classic, but you can try Monterey Jack for mild creaminess, or pepper jack for a touch of heat. Parmesan on top also adds a delightful sharp finish.

Final Thoughts

I hope your kitchen is full of laughter, anticipation, and a little bit of that irresistible oven-baked aroma—because now you know how simple and crowd-pleasing Crab Crunchies can be! Whether it’s for a festive celebration or a casual night in, these golden bites have a way of making any meal feel special. Give them a try and watch as they disappear in minutes!

Crab Crunchies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 20–24 crab crunchies 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Crab Crunchies are a delightful appetizer featuring a creamy and savory crab mixture nestled in crispy wonton or phyllo cups. Perfect for parties or gatherings, these baked crab bites are sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

Scale

Main Crab Mixture:

1 cup lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sour cream
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
2 green onions (finely chopped)
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Wrappers:

20–24 wonton wrappers or small phyllo cups

Additional:

olive oil spray or melted butter for brushing

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a mini muffin tin or baking sheet.
Mix the crab filling: Combine crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, green onions, and shredded cheese in a bowl.
Prepare the wrappers: Place wonton wrappers in muffin cups or phyllo cups on a baking sheet.
Fill the cups: Spoon crab mixture into each cup.
Bake: Brush edges with oil, then bake for 12–15 minutes until golden.
Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving.