Crab Cake Egg Rolls Recipe

The Irresistible Crab Cake Egg Rolls Recipe Everyone Will Love

These crispy crab cake egg rolls blend two beloved appetizers into a mouthwatering fusion that surprises your taste buds.

Seafood lovers will appreciate the delicate crab meat wrapped in a golden, crunchy exterior.

Maryland’s classic crab cake meets Asian-inspired rolling techniques for an unexpected culinary adventure.

Delicate seasonings highlight the sweet crab without overwhelming its natural flavor.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of textures and rich maritime essence.

Crunch through the crisp wrapper to reveal a succulent interior that melts in your mouth.

Pack these irresistible rolls for your next gathering and watch them disappear in moments.

Ingredients for Crab Cake Egg Rolls

Main Ingredients:
  • Crabmeat: Fresh seafood that provides the primary flavor and texture of the egg rolls.
  • Egg Roll Wrappers: Thin dough sheets that create a crispy exterior for the filling.
  • Egg: Helps bind the ingredients together and adds richness to the mixture.
Binding and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and helps hold the crab mixture together.
  • Ritz Crackers: Provide a subtle crunch and help absorb moisture in the filling.
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, fresh herb flavor to the crab mixture.
Seasoning and Liquid Ingredients:
  • Old Bay Seasoning, Worcestershire Sauce, Lemon Juice: These ingredients work together to create a complex, tangy, and traditional seafood flavor profile.
Cooking Preparation:
  • Cooking Oil: Used to spray the egg rolls for a crispy exterior when air frying.

How to Prepare Crab Cake Egg Rolls

Step 1: Whip Up the Flavor Base

Create a delicious binding mixture by whisking together egg, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and fresh parsley in a mixing bowl. The combination will create a zesty foundation for your crab filling. Gently fold in crushed Ritz crackers and tender crabmeat until everything is beautifully integrated. Pop the mixture into the refrigerator for a quick 15-minute chill to help it set and develop deeper flavors.

Step 2: Roll and Wrap with Precision

Spread out egg roll wrappers on a clean work surface, positioning them in a diamond shape. Dampen the wrapper edges with water to ensure a perfect seal. Scoop a generous portion of the chilled crab mixture into the center of each wrapper. Fold the bottom point over the filling, tuck in the side corners, and roll tightly to create a neat package. The goal is a compact, secure egg roll that won’t leak during cooking.

Step 3: Air Fry to Golden Perfection

Fire up the air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly mist the rolled egg rolls with cooking spray to help them achieve a crispy exterior. Arrange the egg rolls in the basket, making sure they aren’t touching. Cook for 10-12 minutes, giving them a gentle flip halfway through to ensure even browning. Watch for a beautiful golden-brown color that signals crispy deliciousness.

Step 4: Serve and Savor

Transfer the hot, crispy Crab Cake Egg Rolls to a serving platter. These delectable treats are best enjoyed immediately while they’re at peak crispiness. Consider pairing with a zesty dipping sauce like remoulade or spicy aioli to complement the rich crab flavor.

Pro Tips for Crispy Crab Cake Egg Rolls

  • Chill the Mixture: Refrigerate the crab cake filling for 15 minutes to help it firm up, making it easier to roll and preventing falling apart during cooking.
  • Seal Edges Perfectly: Brush wrapper edges with water and press firmly to create a tight seal, preventing filling from leaking during air frying.
  • Control Oil Spray: Lightly mist egg rolls with cooking spray to achieve golden, crispy exterior without excess grease.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Leave space between egg rolls in the air fryer basket for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
  • Check Internal Temperature: Ensure crab meat reaches 145°F for safe consumption while maintaining a tender, flavorful filling.

Variation Ideas for Crab Cake Egg Rolls

  • Seafood Medley Rolls: Replace crabmeat with a mix of shrimp, scallops, and chopped crab for a rich seafood experience.
  • Vegetarian Crab-Less Rolls: Substitute crabmeat with heart of palm or artichoke hearts for a plant-based version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz and swap egg roll wrappers with rice paper wraps for celiac-friendly appetizers.
  • Spicy Cajun Rolls: Add cayenne pepper and swap Old Bay for Cajun seasoning to give the egg rolls a fiery kick.

Pairing Tips for Crab Cake Egg Rolls

  • Pair with Zesty Citrus Cocktail: Craft a refreshing lemon-lime vodka spritzer that cuts through the richness of the crab cake egg rolls, complementing the seafood's delicate flavor with bright, tangy notes.
  • Match with Crisp White Wine: Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to enhance the egg rolls' delicate crab and herb undertones, providing a clean, light accompaniment that doesn't overpower the dish.
  • Create Creamy Dipping Sauce: Whip up a quick remoulade with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, capers, and fresh dill to add a creamy, tangy element that elevates the egg rolls' maritime taste profile.

Proper Storage for Crab Cake Egg Rolls

  • Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent sogginess.
  • Wrap individual egg rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Freeze for maximum 1 month to maintain crispy texture and flavor quality.
  • Preheat air fryer to 350F. Cook frozen or refrigerated egg rolls for 3-4 minutes until crispy and heated through. Avoid overcrowding the basket.
  • Arrange egg rolls on a baking sheet. Bake at 375F for 5-7 minutes, turning once halfway. Ensures even heating and maintains original crunchiness.

FAQs on Crab Cake Egg Rolls

  • Can I use imitation crab instead of real crabmeat?

While possible, authentic crabmeat provides better flavor and texture. Imitation crab might make the filling less rich and authentic.

  • How do I prevent the egg rolls from breaking during rolling?

Keep the mixture chilled and avoid overfilling. Wet wrapper edges help seal and prevent tearing. Roll gently but firmly to ensure a tight seal.

  • Are these egg rolls considered healthy?

Moderately healthy. They’re air-fried which reduces oil, but still contain calories from crabmeat, crackers, and wrapper. Good protein source with moderate fat content.

  • Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and assemble egg rolls up to a day in advance. Store uncooked rolls in refrigerator, covered. Cook just before serving for best crispiness.

Why Crab Cake Egg Rolls Are a Crowd Favorite

  • Fusion Flavor Explosion: Combines classic crab cake flavors with crispy egg roll texture, creating a mouthwatering appetizer that surprises and delights taste buds.
  • Quick and Simple Preparation: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for home cooks of all skill levels, perfect for spontaneous gatherings or quick meal ideas.
  • Versatile Party Pleaser: Ideal for game days, potlucks, and social events, these egg rolls offer a unique twist on traditional appetizers that will impress guests and spark conversation.
  • Healthier Cooking Method: Using an air fryer reduces oil usage compared to deep-frying, delivering a crispy exterior with less guilt and maintaining the delicate crab meat's flavor.
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Crab Cake Egg Rolls Recipe

Crab Cake Egg Rolls Recipe


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4.8 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 30-32 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Crispy crab cake egg rolls blend Maryland’s seafood charm with Asian-inspired crunch, creating an irresistible fusion appetizer. Delicate crabmeat, creamy cheese, and zesty seasonings nestle inside golden-brown wrappers, promising a memorable culinary adventure for adventurous palates.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) crabmeat

Binding and Flavor Ingredients:

  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Wrapping and Preparation Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) crushed Ritz crackers
  • 6 egg roll wrappers
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) water (for sealing the egg rolls)

Instructions

  1. Create a flavorful base by whisking egg, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and fresh parsley in a mixing bowl.
  2. Gently incorporate crushed Ritz crackers and crabmeat into the mixture, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
  3. Chill the crab mixture in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and firm up the texture.
  4. Position egg roll wrappers diagonally on a clean work surface, preparing to transform them into crispy parcels.
  5. Moisten wrapper edges with water to create a secure seal for the filling.
  6. Carefully place a precise portion of crab mixture in the center of each wrapper.
  7. Expertly fold the bottom point over the filling, then tuck in side corners to create a neat envelope.
  8. Roll the wrapper tightly, sealing the final edge with a dab of water to prevent unraveling.
  9. Preheat air fryer to 375F (190C), creating the perfect environment for golden, crispy egg rolls.
  10. Lightly mist assembled egg rolls with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
  11. Arrange egg rolls in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch each other for even cooking.
  12. Cook for 10-12 minutes, rotating halfway through to achieve an even, golden-brown exterior.
  13. Remove when the egg rolls are crisp, golden, and heated thoroughly.
  14. Serve immediately while hot and crunchy, ready to delight taste buds with their maritime-inspired crunch.

Notes

  • Chill the mixture thoroughly to help bind ingredients and prevent falling apart during cooking.
  • Use fresh, high-quality lump crabmeat for the best texture and flavor in your egg rolls.
  • Avoid overstuffing wrappers to ensure crispy, evenly cooked exterior and prevent tearing.
  • For gluten-free version, swap Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use rice paper wrappers instead of traditional egg roll wrappers.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 290 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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