Imagine serving an appetizer so irresistibly delicious that your guests can't stop talking about it - welcome to the world of Hot Crab Meat Canapés! These elegant, bite-sized delights combine the luxurious richness of fresh crab meat with a creamy, zesty filling, all nestled on perfectly toasted bread rounds. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated cocktail party or looking to impress your family with a gourmet appetizer, these canapés are your secret weapon to culinary stardom.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup crab meat
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 12 slices of bread, cut into rounds
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Gently fold the crab meat into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to break up the crab meat chunks too much.
- Using a round cookie cutter or small glass, cut the bread slices into circular shapes approximately 2 inches in diameter.
- Arrange the bread rounds on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Spoon a generous amount of the crab meat mixture onto each bread round, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the bread are golden brown and the topping is hot and slightly bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy immediately as an appetizer or light snack.
Tips
- Choose high-quality crab meat: Use fresh lump or backfin crab meat for the best texture and flavor.
- Keep cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother consistency.
- Don't overmix the crab meat to maintain delicate chunks and prevent a mushy texture.
- Use a sharp round cookie cutter for uniform, professional-looking bread rounds.
- Watch the oven carefully to prevent burning - golden brown edges are the perfect indicator of doneness.
- Serve immediately after baking for the best taste and texture.
- For extra flavor, try adding a dash of hot sauce or finely chopped chives to the cream cheese mixture.
- If you're preparing in advance, you can assemble the canapés and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 40mg
