Description
Caprese Puff Pastry Bundles combine fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil wrapped in flaky, buttery puff pastry, baked to golden perfection. This elegant yet effortless appetizer bursts with vibrant Caprese flavors and a perfectly crispy texture, ideal for entertaining or any occasion.
Ingredients
Cheese & Dairy
- Fresh mozzarella balls or slices (about 8 oz)
Produce
- Juicy cherry or grape tomatoes (1 cup, halved or sliced)
- Fresh basil leaves (about 16 leaves)
Pastry & Oil
- Sheet puff pastry (1 sheet, thawed if frozen)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons for brushing)
Condiments & Seasoning
- Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Slice fresh mozzarella and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Pat the mozzarella dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture and prevent soggy pastry.
- Roll and cut the puff pastry: Lightly flour a work surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth out creases. Cut into 4-inch squares, ensuring each piece can comfortably fold around the filling.
- Assemble the bundles: Place a slice of mozzarella, one basil leaf, and a piece of tomato in the center of each pastry square. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Fold the corners over the filling and pinch the edges tightly to seal.
- Brush and bake: Arrange the bundles on a parchment-lined baking tray. Brush each bundle generously with olive oil. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
- Add finishing touches: Remove bundles from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired before serving to enhance flavor.
Notes
- Use chilled puff pastry to ensure optimal puffing and crispiness during baking.
- Dry fresh mozzarella and tomatoes well to avoid soggy pastry.
- Do not overfill the bundles to prevent leakage and ensure good sealing.
- Brush olive oil generously for a beautiful golden crust.
- Serve warm for the best flaky and melty texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bundle
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Caprese, puff pastry, mozzarella, basil, tomato, appetizer, Italian, baked, bite-sized, party food