Marilyn’s Crab Bites: A Taste of Holiday Magic

Every year, the aroma of these crab bites would waft through Grandma’s house, signaling the start of our family’s Christmas Eve celebration. My cousins and I would hover around the appetizer table, practically vibrating with anticipation, waiting for the moment we could finally snag one of these golden, bubbly morsels. There was just something so comforting and festive about that savory, cheesy, crab-filled bite – a taste memory I cherish to this day. Now, I’m excited to share this treasured family recipe with you.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: Varies depending on muffin size; Approximately 64 quartered bites
• Yield: 8 English Muffins (quartered)
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• ½ cup butter, softened
• 1 (5 ounce) jar Kraft Old English cheese spread
• 1 (5 ounce) can crabmeat, drained
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 8 English muffins, split

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Spatula or spoon
• Cookie sheet
• Freezer
• Oven

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, Kraft Old English cheese spread, drained crabmeat, mayonnaise, Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, and garlic powder.
2. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined and a smooth, spreadable mixture forms. It’s okay if there are small lumps of crabmeat; this adds to the texture.
3. Evenly spread the crab mixture onto the split surfaces of all 8 English muffins. Be generous with the topping – that’s where all the flavor is!
4. Carefully cut each English muffin into quarters. You should now have approximately 64 crab bites.
5. Arrange the quartered muffins on a cookie sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
6. Freeze the crab bites on the cookie sheet until solid. This step is crucial for easy storage and prevents them from sticking together later.
7. Once frozen, transfer the crab bites into a plastic bag or airtight container. These can be stored in the freezer until you’re ready to cook them.
8. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
9. Cook the frozen crab bites directly from the freezer on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 10 minutes, or until they are nicely browned and bubbly. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, avoid overmixing the crabmeat, as it can become mushy. Gentle mixing is key to maintaining a desirable texture.
• Cheese Spread Substitute: If you can’t find Kraft Old English cheese spread, you can try using another brand of sharp cheddar cheese spread. The flavor profile may vary slightly, but it will still provide a similar creamy and cheesy element.
• Freezing Time: Ensure the crab bites are fully frozen before transferring them to a bag. This will prevent sticking and maintain their shape. If you live in a very humid area, you may need to freeze them for longer than usual.
• Baking Time Adjustment: Ovens can vary in temperature. Check the crab bites after 8 minutes of baking. If they are browning too quickly, lower the oven temperature slightly. If they are not browning enough after 10 minutes, increase the baking time by a minute or two.
• Make Ahead Marvel: This recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the crab bites days or even weeks in advance and keep them frozen until needed. This is a lifesaver for holiday gatherings and parties.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve Marilyn’s Crab Bites hot from the oven as an appetizer or snack. They are best enjoyed immediately while the cheese is still melted and bubbly. Arrange them on a platter lined with parchment paper for an elegant presentation.

• Room Temperature: Do not leave the cooked crab bites at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Due to the dairy and seafood components, they can spoil quickly.
• Refrigerator: Leftover cooked crab bites can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: While it’s best to cook only what you need, you can technically refreeze cooked crab bites. However, the texture may suffer slightly. Store them in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: To reheat refrigerated crab bites, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, but be careful not to overheat them, as they can become rubbery.

Nutritional Information

(Note: These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and muffin size.)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (Approx. 2 Bites)	% Daily Value
Calories	75 kcal	4%
Total Fat	5g	6%
Saturated Fat	3g	15%
Cholesterol	5mg	2%
Sodium	150mg	7%
Total Carbohydrate	5g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0.5g	2%
Sugars	1g	–
Protein	2g	4%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free English muffins.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the crab mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herbaceous Twist: Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs, such as chives, parsley, or dill, to the crab mixture for a fresh and aromatic flavor.
• Seafood Variety: Substitute some of the crabmeat with cooked shrimp or lobster for a different seafood flavor profile.
• Cheese Variation: Experiment with different cheese spreads or add shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top of the crab mixture before baking.
• Garlic Lovers: Roast a head of garlic and mash the roasted garlic cloves into the cream cheese mixture for a sweeter garlic flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use fresh crabmeat instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Fresh crabmeat will elevate the flavor of the crab bites. Ensure you remove any shell fragments before adding it to the mixture.

Q: Can I make these ahead and refrigerate them instead of freezing?
A: It’s best to freeze them for longer storage and better results. Refrigerating the unbaked crab bites might make the muffins soggy.

Q: How do I prevent the bottom of the crab bites from burning?
A: Make sure your oven temperature is accurate. Also, consider using a perforated baking sheet to allow for better air circulation underneath.

Q: What if I don’t have Lawry’s Seasoned Salt?
A: You can substitute it with a blend of salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Adjust the amounts to your preference.

Q: Can I use different types of muffins?
A: While English muffins are traditional, you could experiment with other types, such as sourdough muffins, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will change.

Final Thoughts

Marilyn’s Crab Bites are more than just a recipe; they are a symbol of family, tradition, and holiday cheer. Their savory, cheesy goodness is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Don’t be surprised if they disappear quickly! I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own cherished memories with these delectable little bites. Perhaps serve them alongside a crisp glass of chilled Chardonnay or a festive cranberry spritzer. Happy baking!