Crab Cheese Crescent Rolls

Crab cheese crescent rolls have become a go to for parties in my family because they combine the creamy tang of cream cheese with tender crab meat all wrapped in buttery golden pastry. These appetizer bites disappear quickly every time and they are so simple that you could whip them up even on busy weeknights or when last minute guests pop in.

The first time I came home with an empty plate and a dozen requests for the recipe. Now I often make a double batch because no one wants to miss out.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated crescent roll dough: Makes the process fast and creates fluffy layers when baked Look for a brand with real butter for the best flavor
• Cream cheese: Softened for a smooth filling choose full fat for extra richness
• Crab meat: Drained and flaked brings sweet seafood flavor opt for fresh or high quality refrigerated if possible but imitation is tasty too
• Green onions: Finely chopped for a mild, fresh bite select bright green, crisp stalks
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds melty sharpness always use freshly grated if you can for superior texture
• Lemon juice: Brightens up the creamy filling use freshly squeezed for best zing
• Garlic powder: Boosts the savory flavor and blends seamlessly into the mix
• Old Bay seasoning: Brings classic seafood spice and color highly recommended for that nostalgic touch
• Salt and pepper: To taste balances all the flavors use freshly cracked black pepper for added kick
• Egg: Beaten for a golden and glossy finish on the rolls qualify farm eggs give the most vibrant color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

Mix the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl until smooth and fluffy This is important for an even filling

Add Remaining Filling Ingredients:

Stir in the flaked crab green onions shredded cheddar lemon juice garlic powder Old Bay seasoning salt and pepper Really mash well so every bite is packed with flavor

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to three seventy five degrees Fahrenheit one ninety degrees Celsius so it is ready once you finish assembling

Assemble the Crescents:

Unroll the crescent dough and cut into triangles as marked Arrange them on your counter with the wide flat edge facing you

Fill Each Roll:

Place one to two generous spoonfuls of crab filling on the wide end of each triangle Try not to overfill or they will be messier to roll

Roll and Seal:

Roll up the dough tightly from wide end to narrow tip hugging in the filling Pinch both sides and ends so the mixture does not escape in the oven

Arrange on Baking Sheet:

Line a tray with parchment Place the rolls with a little space between each for even baking

Brush with Egg Wash:

Paint the tops with beaten egg This step makes the finished rolls turn a beautiful deep golden and helps them puff

Bake Until Golden:

Bake for twelve to fifteen minutes until the crescent rolls are puffed and deep golden brown Check at twelve minutes so you do not overbake

Cool Briefly and Serve:

Let the rolls rest on the tray for a few minutes after baking so the cheese settles then serve while still warm

Pin it

My favorite part of this recipe is always the moment I combine the crab with lemon juice and Old Bay There is something special about the briny freshness those bring when folded into creamy cheese Turning these ingredients into an appetizer for my family brings back memories of summer vacations by the shore and laughter around the kitchen island

Storage Tips

If you want to keep leftover crescent rolls fresh let them cool completely before storing Either tuck them into an airtight container in the fridge for three days or freeze them on a tray and then bag up for up to a month To reheat place in a warm oven until hot so the pastry crisps up again Do not microwave if you want to keep them flaky

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to use light cream cheese if you want a slightly lighter filling Swap in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for cheddar for a milder melt If you are not into crab try cooked flaked shrimp instead and adjust seasoning with a pinch more garlic and a splash more lemon

Serving Suggestions

These crab cheese crescent rolls are perfect for snack platters holiday buffets or even a weeknight treat Pair with a crisp salad and a splash of white wine or line a pretty basket and tuck into a brunch spread My favorite trick is to offer a little bowl of spicy aioli dip on the side for extra flair

Cultural and Historical Context

The idea of wrapping cheese and a savory seafood filling in pastry goes back to classic French and American party fare These rolls are inspired by familiar flavors of crab dip but made simple and fun with ready made dough Using Old Bay gives a nod to the seafood traditions of the East Coast where crab and spice are always a winning combo

Pin it

Serve these warm for best flavor and texture. They bring smiles to every gathering with very little effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use imitation crab instead of real crab?

Absolutely. Imitation crab can be used for convenience or preference and delivers similar texture and flavor.

→ How should I serve the crescent rolls?

They're best served warm, just out of the oven. Let them cool slightly before enjoying to enhance their texture.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls ahead, keep them refrigerated, then bake just before serving for fresh results.

→ Is Old Bay seasoning necessary?

It's optional, but highly recommended for extra flavor and classic crab companion notes.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these rolls?

Garlic aioli, tartar sauce, or a squeeze of lemon all complement the creamy, cheesy filling nicely.