Name: Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cubed); 3/4 cup buttermilk; 1 cup lump crab meat (picked over for shells); 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); Zest of 1 lemon; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Jump to Recipe

If you love the idea of combining cheesy, fluffy biscuits with a luxurious seafood twist, then you are going to fall in love with Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter. These irresistible bites bring together the comforting, buttery goodness of classic Cheddar Bay biscuits and the delicate sweetness of lump crab meat, all brightened with a zesty, garlicky lemon butter glaze. Whether you’re serving them as an impressive appetizer or a special main dish, these biscuits are guaranteed to wow your taste buds and make any gathering feel extra memorable.

Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its straightforward ingredients that work together harmoniously. Each item plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color that make the Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter so delightful.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the biscuits providing structure and tenderness.
1 tablespoon baking powder: Gives the biscuits the perfect fluffy rise.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory note enhancing the overall flavor.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with gentle sweetness.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and elevates every ingredient.
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides rich, tangy depth and a beautiful golden color.
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cubed): Creates flaky layers and buttery richness in the biscuit dough.
3/4 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang that tenderizes the biscuits perfectly.
1 cup lump crab meat (picked over for shells): The star ingredient offering sweet, tender seafood goodness.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and binds the crab filling together without overpowering.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Brings a touch of sharpness to complement the crab’s sweetness.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and a hint of complexity.
1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: The classic spice blend perfectly enhances the crab flavor.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Adds a pop of fresh, herbaceous brightness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the crab mixture just right.
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted for lemon butter): The base of the luscious lemon butter glaze.
Lemon zest: Provides fresh citrus aroma and zing.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Adds acidity that brightens every bite.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the lemon butter with gentle savory warmth.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances out the butter’s richness and highlights flavors.

How to Make Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and helps your biscuits bake evenly to a golden perfection. This step ensures you’re all set for success before mixing any ingredients.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients and Cut in Butter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. This mixture creates the biscuit’s base full of flavor. Next, incorporate the cold, cubed butter by cutting it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, until it resembles coarse crumbs—this technique is the secret to flaky, tender biscuits.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Buttermilk to Form Dough

Stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese to add sharpness and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Pour in buttermilk and mix just until combined. It’s important not to overmix at this stage to keep the biscuits light and airy—overworking the dough can make them tough.

Step 4: Prepare the Crab Filling

In a separate bowl, gently fold together crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Handle the crab meat delicately to retain its lovely lumps that make every bite special and satisfying.

Step 5: Assemble the Stuffed Biscuits

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out a scoop of biscuit dough and flatten it gently in your hand. Place a generous spoonful of crab filling in the center, then cover it with a small piece of dough, sealing the crab inside. This creates delightful pockets of seafood goodness inside fluffy biscuits.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Arrange the stuffed biscuits on the prepared baking sheet with about 2 inches of space between them to allow for rising. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until they turn golden brown and irresistible. The aroma that fills your kitchen at this stage is simply heavenly.

Step 7: Make and Brush with Lemon Butter

While the biscuits bake, prepare the lemon butter by whisking melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt together. Once the biscuits are out of the oven, brush them generously with this fragrant glaze while still warm. This finishing touch adds brightness and a buttery, garlicky shine that pulls the entire dish together beautifully.

How to Serve Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of paprika over the biscuits just before serving for a beautiful color contrast and an extra herbaceous note. A thin lemon wedge on the side invites guests to add a fresh squeeze for a personal burst of citrus.

Side Dishes

These biscuits pair wonderfully with crisp garden salads, tangy coleslaw, or even a simple bowl of creamy clam chowder for a full-on seafood feast. Light, refreshing sides balance the richness of the biscuits and enhance the overall meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special occasion, arrange the biscuits on a wooden board with small bowls of extra lemon butter and a sea-salt sprinkle. You could also serve them alongside a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon to complement the zesty flavors. Their golden, stuffed appearance makes them a real centerpiece that sparks conversation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days, though they are best enjoyed warm and fresh. Refrigeration helps maintain the crab filling’s flavors without drying out the biscuits.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked stuffed biscuits by placing them on a parchment-lined tray and freezing until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time, removing from the freezer directly to the oven.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or thawed biscuits in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisped on the outside. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep that wonderfully flaky texture intact and prevent the biscuits from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab meat instead of lump crab?

While lump crab meat offers the best flavor and texture, you can substitute imitation crab if needed. Just be aware that imitation crab has a different texture and milder taste, so the overall experience will be less seafood-forward but still enjoyable.

Is it possible to make these biscuits dairy-free?

These biscuits rely on cheddar cheese, butter, and buttermilk for their signature flavor and texture, which makes dairy-free versions a bit tricky. However, you could experiment with plant-based butter and non-dairy milk with a splash of vinegar to mimic buttermilk, plus a dairy-free cheese alternative, though the taste and crumb will differ.

Can I prepare the crab filling a day ahead?

Absolutely! The crab filling can be made a day in advance and refrigerated in an airtight container. Just give it a gentle stir before assembling to recombine any separated ingredients and keep the flavors fresh.

What type of cheddar cheese works best?

A sharp cheddar is ideal because it balances the richness of the butter and crab with a tangy punch. You can opt for white or orange cheddar depending on your preference, but avoid mild versions as they won’t provide enough depth.

Can these biscuits be made smaller for bite-sized appetizers?

Yes, you can make mini versions using a smaller cookie scoop or spoon. Just reduce the baking time slightly and keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties and finger-food platters.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter that turns an ordinary meal into a celebration of flavors and textures. The combination of buttery, cheesy biscuits with tender crab and a kiss of lemony garlic butter feels indulgent yet comforting. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with the people you love—it’s the kind of dish that brings smiles and happy memories around the table.

Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 26 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 biscuits 1x
Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

These Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter are a savory and indulgent appetizer blending flaky, buttery biscuits with a flavorful crab meat filling. Inspired by the classic cheddar bay biscuit, this recipe adds a luxurious seafood twist complemented by a zesty lemon garlic butter glaze, perfect for entertaining or special occasions.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate even baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until well combined.
Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it looks like coarse crumbs, ensuring a flaky biscuit texture.
Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly throughout the flour and butter mixture.
Add Buttermilk: Pour in the buttermilk and gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the biscuits light and tender.
Prepare Crab Filling: In a separate bowl, gently fold the lump crab meat with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined but still chunky.
Portion Dough and Fill: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, scoop portions of biscuit dough onto your work surface. Flatten slightly, add a spoonful of the crab filling in the center, then cover with another small spoonful of dough, sealing the edges.
Arrange for Baking: Place the stuffed biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them approximately 2 inches apart to allow for expansion.
Bake Biscuits: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the biscuits turn golden brown and are cooked through.
Make Lemon Butter: While baking, whisk together the melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl to create a vibrant lemon butter glaze.
Brush Biscuits: As soon as the biscuits come out of the oven, generously brush them with the lemon butter while they are still warm for a delicious glossy finish and added flavor.

Notes

Ensure the crab meat is free of shells for safe eating and the best texture.
Do not overmix the biscuit dough to maintain flakiness and tenderness.
Use fresh lemon zest and juice for a bright and fresh lemon butter flavor.
These biscuits are best enjoyed warm but can be gently reheated.
You can substitute lump crab meat with canned crab meat if fresh is unavailable, but fresh is preferred for best flavor.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the crab filling.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American