Cheddar Crab Biscuits with Lemon Butter
Buttery, Cheesy, Flaky Biscuits with Juicy Crab and Zesty Lemon – The Ultimate Savory Treat
If you’ve ever dreamed of combining a cheesy biscuit, a warm crab dip, and a zesty lemon drizzle into one bite-sized masterpiece — these Cheddar Crab Biscuits with Lemon Butter are exactly what you’ve been waiting for.
Loaded with real crab meat, melty cheddar, and kissed with a bright lemon-butter glaze, these biscuits are the perfect appetizer, brunch side, or elevated snack. Whether you’re planning a cozy seafood dinner, hosting guests, or just craving something a little special, this recipe delivers big flavor in an easy-to-make, drop-style biscuit form.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Servings: 12 biscuits
Storage: Keeps for 3–4 days in fridge or 1 month frozen
Ingredients
For the Biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk (whole milk preferred)
- 1 cup cooked crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Ingredient Tip: Use lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor. Be sure to pick through for shells if using fresh or canned crab.
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
This high heat ensures the biscuits rise quickly and get that golden-brown finish.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
This flavorful base sets the stage for biscuits that are anything but boring.
3. Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture.
Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces.
Why cold butter matters: Cold butter = steam pockets = flaky biscuits!
4. Add the Mix-ins
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
In a small bowl, mix the crab meat, green onions, mayonnaise, and paprika.
Gently fold this mixture into the flour and cheese mix.
Gradually pour in the milk, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix — the dough should be thick and slightly sticky.
5. Drop and Bake
Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop heaping mounds of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the biscuits are cooked through.
6. Make the Lemon Butter
While the biscuits are baking, whisk together the:
- Melted butter
- Fresh lemon juice
As soon as the biscuits come out of the oven, brush them generously with the lemon butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Flavor note: The lemon adds just the right amount of acidity to cut through the richness of the cheese and crab.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freeze: Let biscuits cool completely, then freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
How to Serve Cheddar Crab Biscuits
These savory biscuits are incredibly versatile. Serve them:
- As an appetizer with dipping sauce
- Alongside seafood chowder or tomato soup
- With a brunch spread — they pair beautifully with eggs and salad
- As a fancy game day snack with lemon aioli
You can also slice them open and make mini crab sliders with lettuce and remoulade sauce for a party-ready twist.
Variations & Tips
- Spicy? Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños to the dough.
- No crab? Use shrimp, chopped smoked salmon, or even cooked bacon for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese swaps: Try Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or pepper jack for a unique spin.
- Add herbs: Mix chopped chives or dill into the dough for a fresh herby touch.
Why You’ll Love These Biscuits
- Buttery, tender, and flaky
- Packed with cheesy crabby flavor
- Super easy drop-style — no rolling or cutting!
- Bright, tangy lemon butter balances the richness
- A show-stopping appetizer or side dish
Final Thoughts
These Cheddar Crab Biscuits with Lemon Butter are the kind of treat that make jaws drop when you bring them to the table. They combine the indulgent richness of a seafood appetizer with the satisfying heartiness of a classic biscuit — and that lemony, herby glaze takes them over the top.
Whether you’re planning a coastal-themed dinner, brunching with friends, or simply in the mood to bake something special, these biscuits are a flavorful win. Easy enough for weeknights, elegant enough for entertaining — and guaranteed to impress.
