Hot Crabmeat Puffs
Delicious and flaky hot crabmeat puffs with a crispy exterior, perfect as an appetizer or elegant snack for seafood lovers and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Bring water and margarine or butter to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add flour and salt to the boiling mixture, stirring vigorously over low heat until the mixture forms a ball.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the batter is smooth.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of batter onto an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Remove from oven and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure that you beat the eggs in thoroughly, one at a time, until smooth. If you want a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. Additionally, you can add spices like garlic powder or herbs for extra flavor. If you have any leftover batter, try incorporating it into other recipes like savory pastries.
Serving Suggestions
These hot crabmeat puffs are best served fresh out of the oven, but they make a great appetizer for any gathering. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce or a fresh salad. They also complement well with a glass of white wine. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Holiday Scalloped Potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hot crabmeat puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Crabmeat Puffs contains roughly 473 calories, with 10g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1923mg per serving (84% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the hot crabmeat puffs?
Yes, you can freeze the puffs before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.
What types of fillings can I use in these puffs?
While crabmeat is traditional, feel free to experiment with other fillings like shredded chicken, cheese, or even a vegetarian option using sautéed vegetables. Just ensure the filling is not too wet to maintain the puff's integrity.
Why did my puffs not rise?
If the puffs did not rise, it could be due to undercooking the batter or not beating the eggs sufficiently. Make sure to create a smooth batter and bake them until they are golden brown. Also, avoid opening the oven door during baking, as this can cause them to deflate.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).