Crab & Cheese Stuffed Crescent Puffs Recipe

Irresistible Crab & Cheese Stuffed Crescent Puffs Recipe

Crab and cheese stuffed crescent puffs promise a delightful culinary adventure that melts in your mouth.

Imagine biting into a golden, flaky pastry filled with rich, creamy goodness.

These elegant appetizers combine delicate seafood with sharp, tangy cheese in a perfect harmony of flavors.

Soft, pillowy textures create an irresistible contrast that will impress even discerning palates.

Light and airy crescents wrap around a luxurious filling that hints at gourmet sophistication.

Surprisingly simple to assemble, these puffs deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Explore this crowd-pleasing recipe that reinvents ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary experience.

Why Crab & Cheese Stuffed Crescent Puffs Hit the Spot

  • These crescent puffs transform ordinary ingredients into an elegant appetizer that looks impressive but requires minimal cooking skills.
  • The crispy, flaky crescent dough perfectly complements the creamy, delicate crab filling, creating a mouthwatering bite with multiple sensory layers.
  • Ready in under 30 minutes, these stuffed puffs offer a sophisticated option for last-minute gatherings, game nights, or unexpected guests that feels special without complicated preparation.
  • The base recipe allows easy modifications like adding different herbs, swapping cheeses, or incorporating alternative proteins to match personal taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients for Crab & Cheese Crescent Puffs

Cheese Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Soft base for creating a rich and creamy filling.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Adds stretchy texture and mild flavor to the mixture.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Provides a sharp, salty tang to enhance overall taste.
Protein Ingredient:
  • Crab Meat: Fresh or canned seafood that brings delicate ocean flavor to the stuffing.
Pastry and Herb Ingredients:
  • Crescent Roll Dough: Convenient pre-made pastry for quick and easy preparation.
  • Green Onion, Parsley: Fresh herbs that add brightness and aromatic notes to the filling.
  • Garlic Powder, Black Pepper: Seasonings that provide depth and subtle spiciness.

Instructions to Assemble Crab & Cheese Crescent Puffs

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Creamy Seafood Filling

In a mixing bowl, blend the following ingredients:
  • Softened cream cheese
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped green onions
  • Fresh parsley
  • Garlic powder
  • Black pepper

Gently fold in the crab meat, keeping the delicate flakes intact.

Step 3: Craft Delightful Puffs

Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough, separating each triangle. Spoon a generous dollop of the seafood mixture onto the wide end of each triangle. Roll from the wide end to the pointy tip, tucking the edges slightly. Place on the prepared baking sheet with the point facing down.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crescents turn a beautiful golden brown and puff up beautifully. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Pull the puffs from the oven and let them rest for a few moments. Sprinkle with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve while warm.

Tips to Bake Perfect Crescent Puffs Every Time

  • Cheese Mixing Magic: Soften cream cheese completely at room temperature to ensure smooth, lump-free blending with other cheeses and seasonings.
  • Delicate Crab Handling: Gently fold crab meat into the cheese mixture using a light touch to preserve the delicate flakes and prevent breaking.
  • Perfect Roll Technique: Stretch crescent dough slightly before adding filling to create more space and prevent overstuffing, which can cause leaks during baking.
  • Golden Brown Mastery: Watch puffs closely during the last few minutes of baking – they can quickly go from perfectly golden to overdone, so use oven light or check frequently.
  • Flavor Boost Trick: Consider adding a tiny splash of lemon juice to the crab mixture to brighten the seafood flavor and complement the rich cheese blend.

How to Reheat and Keep Crescent Puffs Fresh

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover crab puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap each puff individually in plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.
  • Reheat in Oven: Warm refrigerated puffs by placing them on a baking sheet and heating at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. This method helps restore their crispy texture and keeps the filling warm and delicious.
  • Freeze Option: Freeze cooled puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They'll keep well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Perfect Pairings for Crab & Cheese Crescent Puffs

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: A chilled sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio beautifully complements the rich, creamy crab and cheese filling, cutting through the richness while enhancing the delicate seafood flavor.
  • Serve with Zesty Citrus Salad: A light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a fresh, tangy contrast to the warm, cheesy crescent puffs, balancing the dish's richness.
  • Match with Herb-Infused Dipping Sauce: Create a quick herb aioli using mayonnaise, fresh dill, chives, and a squeeze of lemon juice to add an extra layer of flavor that elevates the appetizer's taste profile.
  • Complement with Sparkling Rosé: A dry, bubbly rosé offers a refreshing accompaniment that mirrors the appetizer's elegance and provides a palate-cleansing effect between bites.

Flavor Variations of Stuffed Crescent Puffs

  • Seafood Sensation: Replace crab meat with cooked shrimp or lobster for a luxurious ocean-inspired variation.
  • Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and a dash of cumin to the cheese mixture for a zesty kick.
  • Vegetarian Veggie Fusion: Swap crab meat with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a plant-based alternative that keeps the creamy cheese filling intact.
  • Mediterranean Magic: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil to give the crescent puffs a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.

FAQs on Crab & Cheese Crescent Puffs

  • Can I use a different type of seafood instead of crab?

Yes, you can substitute crab with cooked shrimp or imitation crab meat. Just make sure the seafood is finely chopped and well-drained.

  • How do I store leftover crescent puffs?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.

  • Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and assemble the puffs up to a day in advance. Keep them refrigerated and bake just before serving for the best texture.

  • What if I don't have fresh parsley?

No problem! You can use dried parsley or skip it entirely. The recipe will still taste delicious with the other herbs and seasonings.

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Crab & Cheese Stuffed Crescent Puffs Recipe

Crab & Cheese Stuffed Crescent Puffs Recipe


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4.7 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Irresistible crab & cheese stuffed crescent puffs deliver a perfect blend of creamy seafood and flaky pastry. Guests will devour these elegant appetizers, craving seconds with each golden, crispy bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 (8 ounces / 226 grams) package refrigerated crescent rolls
  • 1 (6 ounces / 170 grams) can crab meat, drained and flaked
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Herbs:

  • 1 green onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish:

  • Optional: additional parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Warm the culinary workspace by heating the oven to 375°F (190°C), positioning a rack in the center. Prepare a baking surface with parchment paper or a light coating of cooking spray to prevent unwanted adherence.
  2. Craft a luxurious filling by whisking together velvety cream cheese, melted mozzarella, granular Parmesan, finely chopped green onions, verdant parsley, aromatic garlic powder, and a whisper of black pepper until harmoniously blended.
  3. Gently incorporate delicate crab meat into the cheese mixture, folding with precision to maintain the tender flakes’ integrity, creating a sumptuous maritime filling.
  4. Unfurl the crescent dough, carefully separating each triangular section along its natural seams. Position a generous dollop of the maritime cheese blend at the broader end of each triangle.
  5. Roll each triangle from its wide base toward the slender point, creating elegant spiral parcels. Arrange these delicate puffs on the prepared baking surface, ensuring the pointed tip rests underneath to seal the filling.
  6. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven, allowing the puffs to transform into golden, puffy delicacies over 12-15 minutes. Monitor closely to achieve a perfect suntan-like coloration without scorching.
  7. Extract the bubbling parcels, permitting them a brief moment to cool and settle. Enhance with a final sprinkle of fresh parsley for an elegant touch, then serve while warmth and flavor are at their peak.

Notes

  • Prep like a pro by having all ingredients at room temperature for smooth blending and easier mixing.
  • Delicate crab meat requires gentle handling to preserve its tender texture and prevent breaking into tiny pieces.
  • Seal the edges of crescent rolls carefully to prevent cheese filling from leaking during baking.
  • For maximum flavor, use fresh crab meat or high-quality canned lump crab meat instead of imitation crab.
  • Experiment with additional herbs like dill or chives to customize the filling’s taste profile.
  • Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container and reheat briefly in the oven to maintain crispiness.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Isabella Rossi

Isabella Rossi

Founder & Culinary Content Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development​, Traditional Irish and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education​

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) – School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development.​

Ballymaloe Cookery School

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on experience emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sustainable practices.​

Liam is the voice behind many of Craft Meats’ most flavorful features. With roots in Dublin’s smoky barbecue scene and a culinary degree from the Dublin Institute of Technology, he brings time-tested cooking techniques to life. 

His training at Ballymaloe Cookery School sharpened his farm-to-table approach, giving him a deep respect for every ingredient he writes about.

He’s not about overcomplicating the process, just helping you cook meat that’s worth talking about. When he’s not writing or grilling, he’s out foraging or nerding out on regional spice blends to add to his next recipe.

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