### **Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter**
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#### **Introduction**
Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter combine two beloved comfort food staples into one extraordinary bite: the iconic, cheesy Cheddar Bay biscuits and succulent crab meat. These biscuits are loaded with savory crab, sharp cheddar, and buttery goodness, making them the perfect indulgent appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. Finished with a drizzle of zesty lemon butter, they are the ultimate treat for seafood lovers and biscuit aficionados alike.
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#### **Origin**
The Cheddar Bay Biscuit has its roots in Red Lobster, a popular American seafood chain. These biscuits, often served as a complimentary starter, gained nationwide fame due to their irresistible buttery, cheesy flavor. The concept of stuffing them with crab meat comes from the growing trend of combining seafood with baked goods, enhancing the rich flavors of both elements. While the stuffed variety isn’t an official Red Lobster offering, it has become a creative and delightful way to elevate the classic Cheddar Bay Biscuit into something even more indulgent.
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#### **Cultural Significance**
Cheddar Bay Biscuits hold a special place in American culinary culture, particularly in the context of seafood dining. Red Lobster’s original biscuit recipe is a fan favorite, frequently associated with casual family dinners, seafood feasts, and celebratory occasions. By incorporating crab into the mix, this version pays homage to both the beloved biscuit and the long-standing American tradition of enjoying seafood dishes. With its combination of flavors, it has become a modern favorite in many households, providing the comforting essence of a homemade baked good with the luxurious taste of crab.
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#### **Ingredients & Quantity**
– **For the Crab-Stuffed Biscuits:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk, if preferred)
– 1/2 pound cooked crab meat (preferably lump or claw)
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– **For the Lemon Butter:**
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
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#### **Optional Additions**
1. **Spices**: A pinch of cayenne pepper or Old Bay seasoning can add a bit of heat and complexity to the crab mixture.
2. **Herbs**: Fresh dill or chives can be added to the crab mixture for a fresh, herbal kick.
3. **Cheese**: Swap out some of the sharp cheddar for Gruyère or Parmesan for a different cheese profile.
4. **Vegetables**: For added flavor, consider adding finely chopped green onions or bell peppers to the crab mixture.
5. **Bacon**: Crumbled bacon can be added to the crab stuffing for a smoky flavor.
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#### **Tips for Success**
1. **Chill the Butter**: Cold butter is key for achieving the perfect biscuit texture. Make sure the butter is cubed and kept cold before incorporating it into the flour mixture.
2. **Don’t Overmix the Dough**: Overmixing the biscuit dough will make the biscuits dense. Stir until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
3. **Use Fresh Crab Meat**: Fresh, high-quality crab meat will yield the best flavor. If using canned crab meat, make sure to drain it thoroughly and remove any excess moisture.
4. **Keep the Crab Mixture Cool**: Ensure that the crab filling is cool before stuffing it into the biscuit dough. This helps maintain its integrity and prevents it from melting into the dough during baking.
5. **Baking Sheet**: Place the biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure easy removal and to prevent sticking.
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#### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Crab Filling**: In a bowl, gently combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, parsley, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Place the crab mixture in the fridge while preparing the biscuits.
2. **Make the Biscuit Dough**: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cubed cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. **Add Cheese and Buttermilk**: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Slowly add the buttermilk, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
4. **Stuff the Biscuits**: Scoop about a tablespoon of biscuit dough and flatten it into a small disc. Place a small spoonful of the crab mixture in the center and fold the dough over to encase the crab. Roll the dough into a ball and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough and crab mixture.
5. **Bake**: Bake the stuffed biscuits in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
6. **Make the Lemon Butter**: While the biscuits are baking, melt the butter in a small bowl. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, and salt, and stir to combine.
7. **Finish and Serve**: Once the biscuits are golden brown, remove them from the oven and brush them with the lemon butter while they’re still warm. Serve immediately.
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#### **Description**
These crab-stuffed cheddar biscuits are the perfect marriage of two irresistible flavors: the cheesy, flaky biscuit and the sweet, succulent crab. The stuffed crab filling is light yet flavorful, with the tang of mustard, fresh lemon zest, and a creamy base that complements the richness of the cheddar biscuit. The lemon butter drizzle on top provides an extra burst of freshness that elevates the entire dish. Whether served as a starter, side dish, or a main course, these biscuits are sure to impress with their delightful combination of flavors and textures.
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#### **Nutritional Information (Per Biscuit, Approx.)**
– **Calories**: 250-300 calories
– **Protein**: 7-8g
– **Carbohydrates**: 30g
– **Fat**: 15-18g
– **Saturated Fat**: 9-10g
– **Fiber**: 1g
– **Sodium**: 450-600mg
– **Cholesterol**: 35-50mg
*Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary depending on exact ingredient choices.*
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#### **Conclusion**
Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter are the perfect fusion of savory, cheesy goodness and delicate, sweet crab flavor. They’re ideal for any seafood lover or anyone craving a little indulgence with their biscuit experience. Whether you’re looking for an appetizer to wow your guests or a decadent side to accompany your favorite seafood or steak dish, these biscuits are sure to be a hit. The fresh, zesty lemon butter adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the crab and cheese, making each bite a delight.
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#### **Recommendation**
For a healthier version, consider using a lighter mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in the crab mixture, and swap out some of the butter for olive oil. You can also add extra vegetables to the stuffing for added nutrients. To lighten up the biscuits themselves, consider using whole wheat flour or reducing the amount of cheese. These small changes can help balance indulgence with a more health-conscious approach.
Embrace the delicious, indulgent experience of crab-stuffed cheddar biscuits as an occasional treat, and enjoy the incredible burst of flavors with each bite. They’re perfect for those times when you want to go all out with flavor while still keeping it a little fresh and vibrant with the lemon butter.