1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar, and crab meat. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll out the croissant dough and cut into small squares, about 4×4 inches each.
4. Spoon a tablespoon of the mac and crab mixture onto the center of each square. Fold the corners over to seal the filling inside.
5. In a shallow dish, pour the buttermilk. In another dish, place the flour.
6. Dip each filled croissant bite first in buttermilk, then dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
7. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully fry each croissant bite until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
8. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to ensure the dough is fully cooked.
9. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Remember, it’s all about patience and a bit of love. Just like my abuela used to say, “Good things take time, mija!”