Description
These Caprese Puff Pastry Bundles combine the classic flavors of fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil wrapped in golden, flaky puff pastry. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or a light snack, these bundles are baked to perfection and optionally drizzled with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
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 (about 12 leaves)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Flour, for dusting
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
Optional Topping
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze, 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 using a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean edges.
- Assemble Filling: Place a slice or cube of fresh mozzarella in the center of each pastry square. Add several halved cherry tomatoes and 1–2 fresh basil leaves atop the cheese. Season the filling lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Form Bundles: Fold the four corners of each puff pastry square up over the filling, pinching the edges together at the top to seal and create a neat bundle. If needed, brush the edges with a little water to help them stick securely.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg in a small bowl and gently brush it over the outside of each bundle. This step will give the pastry a beautiful golden brown finish when baked.
- Bake: Place the bundles on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the bundles from the oven and let them cool slightly to allow the filling to settle. Optionally, drizzle with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and tanginess, then serve warm.
Notes
- Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling and cutting to prevent cracking.
- For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some dried Italian herbs or garlic powder inside before sealing the bundles.
- Serve immediately after baking for the best texture; leftovers can be reheated in the oven to restore flakiness.
- To make this dish vegetarian, ensure the mozzarella used is made with vegetarian rennet.
