Description
Caprese Puff Pastry Bundles are crispy, cheesy bites filled with fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes, wrapped in golden, flaky puff pastry. This easy-to-make appetizer combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with a delightful crunch, perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a savory snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Puff Pastry Sheets – 1 sheet (thawed according to package instructions)
- Fresh Mozzarella – 8 oz, sliced into rounds or cubes
- Ripe Cherry Tomatoes – 1 cup, halved
- Fresh Basil Leaves – 1/4 cup, whole leaves
- Olive Oil – 1-2 tbsp, for brushing
- Salt – to taste
- Pepper – to taste
Optional Ingredients
- Balsamic Glaze – for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Slice the fresh mozzarella into small rounds or cubes, halve the cherry tomatoes, and gently rinse and pat dry the basil leaves to keep them fresh and vibrant.
- Cut and Ready Puff Pastry: Thaw the puff pastry sheet as per package instructions. Roll it out slightly on a floured surface and cut it into equal squares approximately 3 to 4 inches wide to form the base for each bundle.
- Assemble the Bundles: Place a piece of mozzarella, a couple of halved cherry tomatoes, and a few fresh basil leaves in the center of each puff pastry square. Lightly sprinkle with salt and pepper, then fold the corners of the pastry up and pinch the edges together to seal each bundle neatly.
- Brush and Bake: Lightly brush each bundle with olive oil to help achieve a golden finish. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Remove the bundles from the oven and optionally drizzle with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately to enjoy the ideal balance of crispy pastry and melty, fresh fillings.
Notes
- Keep the puff pastry well chilled before assembling to ensure it bakes up flaky and rises well.
- Avoid overfilling the bundles to prevent them from bursting during baking.
- Use fresh mozzarella and basil for authentic, vibrant flavor.
- Preheat the oven fully before baking for a crisp crust.
- Brushing with olive oil locks in moisture and promotes even browning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bundle
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Caprese, Puff Pastry, Appetizer, Basil, Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes, Italian Snack, Party Food, Quick Recipe