Description
These Caprese Puff Pastry Bundles are a delightful appetizer combining flaky puff pastry with fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Baked until golden and crispy, they’re perfect for parties or a sophisticated snack, with an optional drizzle of balsamic glaze for added sweetness and tang.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry Bundles
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into slices or cubes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves (6-12 leaves)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Flour (for dusting)
Egg Wash
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional Topping
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it into 6 equal squares, ensuring even-sized bundles for uniform baking.
- Assemble Fillings: Place a slice or cubes of fresh mozzarella, a few halved cherry tomatoes, and 1 to 2 fresh basil leaves in the center of each puff pastry square. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Form Bundles: Gently fold the corners of the puff pastry up over the filling and pinch them together at the top to seal, creating a neat bundle. For better adhesion, you can brush the edges lightly with water before pinching.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it evenly over the surface of each puff pastry bundle to achieve a golden, glossy finish once baked.
- Bake: Arrange the bundles on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and beautifully golden brown.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bundles from the oven and let them cool slightly. If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best creamy texture and flavor.
- Make sure the puff pastry is well thawed but still cold to handle easily.
- Balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy note but can be omitted if preferred.
- Serve immediately after baking for the best crispiness.
- Dust your working surface lightly with flour to prevent the puff pastry from sticking.
