Mini Cornbread Crab Muffins
Mini Cornbread Crab Muffins are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that combines the sweet, moist texture of classic cornbread with tender, savory crab meat. Perfectly sized for parties or snacks, these bite-sized muffins offer a balanced flavor and texture that impresses seafood lovers and casual eaters alike. With minimal prep and quick baking, they are an ideal choice for both busy cooks and beginners seeking a unique, savory treat.
- Author: Kathy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 30-33 minutes
- Yield: 24 mini muffins 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Main Ingredient
- 1 cup fresh or canned crab meat
Optional Herbs and Spices
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Optional additions: diced jalapeños, shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese, fresh dill or tarragon, finely chopped bell peppers or green onions
- Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend), sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed. This creates a uniform texture for the muffins.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg with the milk and melted butter. This mixture adds moisture and richness to the batter, contributing to a tender crumb.
- Fold Wet into Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the muffins tough instead of tender.
- Add Crab and Herbs: Gently fold in the fresh or canned crab meat along with any optional herbs or spices. This helps keep the crab chunky and distinct in each muffin.
- Fill Muffin Tin and Bake: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh crab meat if possible for best flavor and texture; canned crab also works well.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep muffins light and tender.
- Ensure the oven is fully preheated to guarantee even baking.
- Grease the muffin tin thoroughly to help muffins release easily and maintain their shape.
- Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to brighten flavor and enhance visual appeal.
- Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature up to 2 days or in the refrigerator up to 1 week.
- Freeze muffins by cooling completely, then placing in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag; freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheat muffins in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 mini muffins
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Mini Cornbread Crab Muffins, Crab appetizers, Cornbread muffins, Seafood snacks, Gluten-free crab muffins, Party appetizers