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Handwritten recipe card for crab canapes. Appetizer dish with crab.
Crab Canapés are a delightful, retro-inspired appetizer perfect for parties or holiday gatherings. These bite-sized treats feature a creamy blend of crab meat, Old English cheese, margarine, mayonnaise, and seasonings, all spread onto English muffin halves. After freezing, the muffins are quartered and baked until bubbly and golden.
This recipe is a typical mid-20th century American party food. While the term "canapé" originates from French cuisine and refers broadly to small, decorative finger foods served on bread or crackers, this specific version, using English muffins, canned crab, and processed cheese, is a distinctly retro American twist.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 6 English muffins (cut in half)
  • 1 stick Margarine (softened)
  • 5 oz Old English Cheese (1 jar)
  • 2 tbsp Mayonnaise
  • ½ tsp Garlic powder
  • ½ tsp Salt
  • 1 tbsp Minced onion
  • 1 can Crab meat (drain well)

Instructions
 

  • Mix all the ingredients and spread on the 12 muffin halves.
  • Put the halves on cookie sheet and put in the freezer.
  • Once frozen, cut the halves into quarters.
  • Bake the quarters at 350℉ for 15 minutes or until bubbly.
  • You can put the canapes in a plastic bag and store in the freezer for a later date.

Tips

If you're interested in a lighter version of this recipe, consider the following modifications:
  • Use whole wheat English muffins: This increases fiber content.
  • Replace margarine with a healthier fat: Such as olive oil spread or a reduced-fat butter alternative.
  • Opt for low-fat cheese spread and mayonnaise: To reduce saturated fat and calorie content.
  • Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or celery for added nutrients and crunch.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 12gFat: 20gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 540mg
Keyword Canapes, Crab, Shellfish
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