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Mini Cornbread Crab Muffins

Mini Cornbread Crab Muffins

Mini Cornbread Crab Muffins combine the sweet, crumbly texture of golden cornbread with the delicate, savory flavor of fresh crab meat. Perfect as a bite-sized appetizer or party snack, these muffins bake quickly and offer a delicious balance of flavors that are easy to customize to your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or use gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • Optional spices: 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne, or 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup milk (dairy or dairy-free alternative)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup melted butter (or plant-based alternative for dairy-free)

Main and Flavor Additions

  • 1 cup fresh or canned crab meat
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
  • Optional variations: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese, diced jalapeños, fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and any optional seasonings like paprika or Old Bay to ensure even distribution.
  2. Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs then whisk in the milk and melted butter until smooth and well combined.
  3. Combine wet and dry mixtures: Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the muffins tender.
  4. Fold in crab meat and green onions: Carefully fold the crab meat and chopped green onions into the batter, distributing evenly without breaking up the delicate crab too much.
  5. Fill muffin tins: Spoon the batter into a greased or lined mini muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
  6. Bake until golden: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  7. Cool and serve: Let the muffins cool slightly before removing from the tin and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh or high-quality canned crab meat for best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter to ensure light and fluffy muffins.
  • Preheat your oven to ensure proper rising and a golden crust.
  • Grease the muffin tin well to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
  • Serve the muffins warm for the best taste and texture experience.
  • Prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate, stirring gently before filling muffin tins.
  • To make gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.
  • For a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk and butter substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: cornbread, crab meat, appetizer, mini muffins, party snacks, gluten-free option, savory muffins