Crab Rangoon Crescent Cups

Crab Rangoon Crescent Cups are a simple yet crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines creamy crab filling with golden, flaky crescent roll dough. With just a handful of ingredients, these bite-sized cups are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for parties, holidays, and gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent rolls
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 ½ teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 6 ounces crab meat, drained (1 can)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  For topping:
• ⅓ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, green onion, garlic, and ½ cup mozzarella cheese. Stir until smooth.
3. Gently fold in the crab meat until evenly distributed. Set aside.
4. Open the crescent roll can, pinch the seams together, and cut the dough into 18 equal squares.
5. Place each dough square into a mini muffin pan, pressing gently to form cups.
6. Divide the crab mixture evenly into the cups and sprinkle with the remaining ⅓ cup mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for about 12 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
8. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before removing from the pan.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve warm right out of the oven for the best flavor and texture. Pair them with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or even a garlic butter dipping sauce.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Assemble and bake just before serving.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
• Freezing: Freeze fully baked and cooled crescent cups on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen at 350°F for about 12 minutes.

Variations

1. Spicy Crab Rangoon Cups – Add diced jalapeños, sriracha, or red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
2. Shrimp or Lobster Cups – Swap out the crab for shrimp or lobster to elevate this appetizer for a special occasion.
3. Cheddar & Mozzarella Mix – Use half mozzarella and half cheddar cheese for a richer, sharper flavor.
4. Vegetarian Crescent Cups – Replace crab with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes for a meat-free option.
5. Asian-Inspired Cups – Add a touch of soy sauce and ginger to the filling and serve with a sesame dipping sauce.
6. Buffalo-Style Cups – Mix in buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese crumbles for a tangy, spicy flavor.
7. Spinach & Artichoke Cups – Swap the crab for a creamy spinach and artichoke dip-style filling. Add chopped spinach, artichokes, and Parmesan to the cream cheese mixture for a cheesy, veggie-packed twist.
8. Buffalo Chicken Crescent Cups – Replace crab with shredded cooked chicken, add buffalo sauce, and top with blue cheese crumbles for a tangy, spicy appetizer.
9. Cajun Crab Cups – Mix Cajun seasoning into the filling for a bold Southern-inspired flavor. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika for color.
10. Jalapeño Popper Cups – Replace crab with diced jalapeños and extra cheese. Add a sprinkle of crumbled bacon on top for the ultimate jalapeño popper-inspired bite.
11. Mediterranean Crescent Cups – Use crab or shrimp along with feta cheese, kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of oregano for a Mediterranean flair.
12. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cups – Skip the crab and make a rich garlic-Parmesan filling with cream cheese, mozzarella, and extra garlic. Perfect for garlic lovers.
13. Smoked Salmon Cups – Replace crab with smoked salmon, add a squeeze of lemon juice, and top with fresh dill for a fancy, brunch-worthy appetizer.
14. Crab & Corn Cups – Add fresh or canned corn kernels to the crab mixture for a slightly sweet crunch that balances the creamy filling.
15. Teriyaki Crab Cups – Mix a little teriyaki sauce and sesame seeds into the filling. Serve with soy sauce or sesame dipping sauce for an Asian-inspired bite.
16. Mexican-Style Crescent Cups – Swap crab for seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken, then add cheddar cheese, salsa, and a little cilantro for a taco-inspired version.
17. Breakfast Crescent Cups – Replace crab with scrambled eggs, crumbled bacon, and cheddar cheese for a breakfast or brunch twist on this recipe.
    

FAQs

1. Can I use imitation crab instead of real crab?
Yes, imitation crab works perfectly in this recipe and is more budget-friendly.

2. Can I make these without a mini muffin pan?
Yes, you can bake them on a regular baking sheet, but the filling may spread more. The muffin pan helps them hold their shape.

3. Can I use fresh crab meat instead of canned?
Absolutely. Fresh lump crab adds amazing flavor, just make sure it’s cooked and shell-free.

4. What’s the best dipping sauce for these?
Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic aioli, or even ranch dressing pair wonderfully.

5. Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes, assemble them a few hours ahead, refrigerate, and bake right before serving.

6. Can I double the recipe for a party?
Yes, this recipe doubles (or triples) easily to serve a crowd.

7. What other cheese can I use instead of mozzarella?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even Parmesan can be used for different flavor profiles.

8. Do these taste like traditional fried Crab Rangoon?
Yes, they have a similar flavor but with a lighter baked version thanks to the crescent rolls.

9. How do I keep them from sticking to the pan?
Grease your muffin tin well or use nonstick cooking spray before adding the dough.

10. Can I serve these at room temperature?
They taste best warm, but they’re still delicious at room temperature, making them great for parties and buffets.

Crab Rangoon Crescent Cups are a quick, flavorful, and elegant appetizer that always impresses. With their creamy filling, crispy crust, and endless variations, these little bites are guaranteed to be the star of any party spread.

Print