Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls

Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are a delightful appetizer or snack that combines buttery, flaky crescent roll dough with a rich, creamy filling made of succulent crab meat and melted cheese. These bite-sized treats are a perfect choice for entertaining guests, adding an elegant touch to a party platter, or serving as a satisfying indulgence for family dinners. The balance of textures and flavors—tender crab, gooey cheese, and golden, crispy pastry—makes them utterly irresistible. Simple to prepare yet sophisticated in presentation, these crescent rolls are sure to become a favorite for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Using store-bought crescent roll dough ensures this recipe is simple to make, even for beginners.
• Sophisticated Flavor: The combination of crab meat and cheese is both rich and decadent, yet approachable.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as an appetizer, party snack, or elegant addition to a brunch spread.
• Customizable: You can experiment with different types of cheese, seasonings, or add-ins to make this recipe your own.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a buttery crescent roll filled with creamy, cheesy goodness.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 rolls
• Serving size: 1 roll

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Crescent Rolls:

• 1 tube (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or Swiss cheese)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup cooked crab meat, flaked (fresh, canned, or imitation)
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or paprika as a substitute)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Optional Dipping Sauces:

• Garlic butter
• Cocktail sauce
• Spicy aioli

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and flaked crab meat.
2. Add the chopped green onions, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Open the tube of crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 individual triangles along the perforated lines.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

1. Place a heaping tablespoon of the crab and cheese mixture at the wide end of each crescent roll triangle.
2. Carefully roll up the dough, starting at the wide end and tucking in the filling as you roll. Pinch the edges of the dough to seal any gaps and prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.
3. Arrange the filled crescent rolls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

1. Brush the tops of the crescent rolls with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.
2. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or parsley for added flavor and presentation, if desired.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake the crescent rolls in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and puffed.
2. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the crab & cheese filled crescent rolls to a serving platter. Garnish with additional parsley if desired, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces on the side.

Ingredient Background

• Crescent Roll Dough: Convenient and versatile, this dough bakes into a light, flaky crust that perfectly complements the creamy filling. Puff pastry can also be used for a richer, flakier texture.
• Crab Meat: Fresh crab meat is ideal for this recipe, but canned or imitation crab works well for convenience and affordability. Make sure to drain and pat it dry before mixing.
• Cream Cheese: Acts as the base of the filling, providing creaminess and helping to bind the ingredients together.
• Cheese Blend: Mozzarella adds a melty, gooey texture, while Parmesan provides a nutty, savory depth of flavor. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Havarti.
• Old Bay Seasoning: A classic pairing with seafood, it enhances the crab flavor and adds a touch of spice. Paprika or Cajun seasoning are great substitutes.

Technique Tips

• Keep Dough Cool: Crescent roll dough becomes sticky if it gets too warm, so work quickly or chill the dough if necessary.
• Prevent Overstuffing: Use just enough filling to roll the dough without it spilling out. Any excess filling can be baked in a ramekin as a dip.
• Seal the Edges: Pinch the seams of the dough to ensure the filling stays inside during baking.
• Golden Finish: Brushing the rolls with an egg wash creates a beautiful golden crust and helps any toppings adhere.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Pinwheels: Roll the crescent dough into a log with the filling spread evenly, then slice into pinwheels and bake for bite-sized appetizers.
• Stuffed Crescent Cups: Press the dough into muffin tins, add the filling, and fold the edges over for individual stuffed crescent cups.
• Flatbread Style: Spread the filling over an uncut sheet of crescent dough, fold in half, and bake for a flatbread-inspired dish.
• Layered Crescent Bake: Layer the dough, filling, and cheese in a casserole dish for a family-style serving option.

Additional Tips for Success

• Drain Crab Meat: If using canned or imitation crab, ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the crescent rolls and refrigerate them (uncooked) for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh when ready to serve.
• Reheating: Reheat leftover rolls in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore their crispness.
• Add Extra Flavor: Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika or grated cheese over the egg wash before baking for an extra burst of flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Crab Rolls: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Herbed Cheese Rolls: Mix fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives into the filling for a bright, herby flavor.
• Seafood Medley Rolls: Combine crab meat with cooked shrimp or lobster for a luxurious filling.
• Cheddar Bacon Crab Rolls: Swap mozzarella for sharp cheddar and mix in cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the crab with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version of this recipe.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing (Unbaked): Assemble the rolls and freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5 minutes to the cook time.
• Freezing (Baked): Let baked rolls cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
• Refrigeration: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Whole Wheat Dough: Use whole wheat crescent roll dough or make your own for added fiber and nutrients.
• Lightened Cheese: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and shredded cheese to cut down on calories.
• Lean Protein: Substitute crab meat with shredded chicken breast or turkey for a leaner option.
• Veggie Add-Ins: Mix diced bell peppers, spinach, or artichokes into the filling for a nutritional boost.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Party Appetizer: Arrange the crescent rolls on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Brunch Spread: Pair with fresh fruit, quiche, and mimosas for an elegant brunch menu.
• Holiday Appetizer: Garnish with parsley and serve alongside a charcuterie board for a festive holiday dish.
• Light Lunch: Serve the rolls with a side salad or soup for a satisfying midday meal.

Special Equipment

• Baking Sheet: A large, non-stick baking sheet ensures even cooking. Use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Mixing Bowls: Needed for preparing the filling and whisking the egg wash.
• Pastry Brush: Perfect for applying the egg wash evenly.
• Sharp Knife: Useful for trimming or shaping the dough as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use imitation crab?
Yes! Imitation crab works well as a convenient and budget-friendly substitute for fresh crab.

2. What type of cheese works best?
Mozzarella, Swiss, and Parmesan are all excellent choices. Gruyère or Havarti are also great for a richer flavor.

3. Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free crescent roll dough, which is available in most grocery stores.

4. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Ensure the crescent roll dough is tightly rolled and pinched at the seams. Avoid overfilling the rolls.

5. Can I bake these in an air fryer?
Yes! Bake the crescent rolls in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

6. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough?
Absolutely! Puff pastry will yield a flakier, more decadent result. Adjust the baking time as needed.

7. What dipping sauces pair best?
Garlic butter, cocktail sauce, or spicy aioli are excellent choices to complement the crab filling.

8. Can I add other seafood to the filling?
Yes, you can mix in cooked shrimp, scallops, or lobster for a more luxurious variation.

Conclusion

Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are an elegant yet easy-to-make dish that combines the rich flavors of creamy cheese and tender crab meat with the buttery, flaky texture of crescent rolls. Whether served as a party appetizer, brunch dish, or comforting snack, these rolls are sure to impress. The recipe is versatile and adaptable, making it easy to customize with your favorite cheeses, seasonings, or add-ins. Pair them with delicious dipping sauces, experiment with creative variations, and enjoy the irresistible taste of this crowd-pleasing recipe!

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