Baked Crab Bombs

Total Time: 45 minutes
Active Time: 25 minutes
Intensity: Easy to Moderate
Yield: 12 “bombs”

The Story Behind the Bites

Imagine the sweet, delicate flavor of premium crab meat, enveloped in a creamy, seasoned filling, all wrapped in a crispy, golden-brown wonton wrapper and baked to perfection. That’s the essence of a Baked Crab Bomb—a delectable appetizer that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Unlike fried versions, this recipe uses baking to achieve a satisfying crunch without the extra oil, letting the luxurious crab flavor shine. They’re elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a game-day snack.

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Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 8 oz (225g) lump crab meat, carefully picked over for shells

• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature

• 1/4 cup (60ml) mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup (25g) finely grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 green onion, thinly sliced

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice, plus zest of half a lemon

• 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or to taste)

• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 12 square wonton wrappers

• 1 tbsp melted butter or olive oil, for brushing

• Finely chopped parsley or chives, for garnish

• Lemon wedges, for serving

Special Equipment:

• Standard 12-cup muffin tin

• Pastry brush

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep & Preheat (Time: 5 minutes | Intensity: Low)

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s perfectly hot when your bombs are ready to bake. Lightly brush each cup of the muffin tin with a tiny bit of the melted butter or oil. This prevents sticking and aids browning.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Crab Filling (Time: 10 minutes | Intensity: Low)

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan, green onion, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice and zest, Old Bay, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using). Use a spatula to mix until smooth and fully incorporated. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
The Key: Gently fold in the lump crab meat. Use a light hand to maintain those beautiful, chunky pieces of crab. Overmixing will break it down. Taste and adjust seasoning—this is your chance to make it perfect.

Step 3: Assemble the Bombs (Time: 10 minutes | Intensity: Moderate)

Lay a wonton wrapper flat on a clean surface. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the crab mixture into the center. To shape, bring all four corners of the wrapper up and over the filling, pinching them together at the top to form a sealed “bomb” or bundle. Don’t worry if some filling peeks out; it adds to the rustic charm. Gently place each bomb into a prepared muffin cup. The tin will help them hold their shape. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection (Time: 15-18 minutes | Intensity: Passive)

Lightly brush the exposed surfaces of each bomb with the remaining melted butter or oil. This is the secret to an all-over, crispy, golden finish. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the wonton wrappers are crisp and deeply golden brown, and the filling is heated through.

Step 5: Serve Immediately (Time: 2 minutes | Intensity: Low)

Let the bombs cool in the tin for just 2-3 minutes—they are best served warm. Use a small offset spatula or spoon to gently lift them out. Arrange on a serving platter, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side. The squeeze of fresh lemon just before eating elevates all the flavors.

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Chef’s Notes & Success Tips

• Crab Selection: For the best flavor, use fresh lump crab meat. High-quality canned or refrigerated pasteurized crab works well too—just be sure to drain it thoroughly.

• Wrapper Wisdom: Keep unused wonton wrappers under a damp towel while working to prevent them from drying out and cracking.

• Make-Ahead Magic: You can assemble the bombs up to 4 hours ahead. Cover the muffin tin tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Brush with butter and bake straight from the fridge, adding 1-2 extra minutes if needed.

• Dipper’s Delight: While stunning on their own, these bombs pair wonderfully with a simple dipping sauce. Mix equal parts sweet chili sauce and mayo, or stir a teaspoon of lemon juice and some dill into remoulade.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 1 Crab Bomb)