Description
Caprese Puff Pastry Bundles are delightful, bite-sized pastries filled with fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves. Wrapped in flaky puff pastry and baked to golden perfection, these bundles offer an elegant, easy-to-make appetizer or snack inspired by classic Italian Caprese salad flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- Flour (for dusting)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Filling
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into slices or cubes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare the puff pastry: Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet. Cut it into 6 equal squares to create individual bundles.
- Add the filling: Place a slice or cube of fresh mozzarella in the center of each pastry square. Top with a few halved cherry tomatoes and 1–2 fresh basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Form the bundles: Gently fold the corners of each puff pastry square up over the filling, pinching them together at the top to seal and form a neat bundle. Optionally, brush the edges with a little water to ensure they stick securely.
- Apply egg wash: Whisk the egg in a small bowl and brush the mixture over each puff pastry bundle. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown finish during baking.
- Bake the bundles: Arrange the bundles evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, until they are puffed up and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the bundles from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired, then serve warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- For best results, use cold puff pastry and keep it chilled until ready to use to maintain flakiness.
- You can substitute fresh mozzarella with a firmer cheese if preferred, but mozzarella gives the best creamy texture.
- Cherry tomatoes can be replaced with grape tomatoes if needed.
- The balsamic glaze is optional but adds a nice sweet and tangy finishing touch.
- These bundles are best enjoyed warm but can be reheated gently in the oven.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
