Caprese Puff Pastry Recipe
A quick and elegant appetizer, Caprese Puff Pastry combines flaky, golden puff pastry with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves. Baked until the pastry is crisp and the cheese is melted, this dish captures the classic flavors of a Caprese salad in a handheld savory treat.
- Author: Mick
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Puff Pastry Base
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
Caprese Toppings
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, about 8-10
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for brushing)
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth it and slightly enlarge it to your desired size.
- Assemble the Toppings: Arrange slices of mozzarella evenly over the puff pastry, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges. Layer tomato slices over the cheese, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Add fresh basil leaves on top of the tomato slices.
- Prepare for Baking: Optionally, brush the exposed edges of the puff pastry with olive oil for a golden finish. You can also brush a little olive oil over the toppings to enhance flavor and help the cheese melt beautifully.
- Bake the Puff Pastry: Place the assembled puff pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, flaky, and golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Cut into squares or slices and serve warm as an appetizer or light snack.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella for best melting and flavor.
- Ensure puff pastry is fully thawed before baking to avoid uneven cooking.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze upon serving for extra flavor.
- For a crispier base, dock the puff pastry lightly before adding toppings.
- Can be made ahead and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Keywords: Caprese, Puff Pastry, Appetizer, Italian, Mozzarella, Tomato, Basil, Easy Recipe