Name: Caprese Bites Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 package puff pastry; 6 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced into 12 slices; 12 cherry tomatoes, halved; Balsamic glaze, for drizzling; Fresh basil, chopped; 1 teaspoon flaky salt; 1 egg, for egg wash

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Introduction

Caprese Bites are a delightful twist on the classic Italian salad, combining flaky puff pastry with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil. These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for parties or a simple, elegant snack.

The image shows nine small cups made from a golden, crispy shell arranged on a white marbled surface. Each cup is filled with soft, white cheese or cream with a smooth texture, topped with bright red tomato pieces and small green herb leaves. The tomato pieces add a fresh and juicy look, while the cheese inside looks creamy and thick. Thin brown lines of balsamic glaze or sauce are drizzled over the top, adding a shiny contrast to the bright colors. The small cups are evenly spaced, creating a neat and tempting presentation. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 package puff pastry
6 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced into 12 slices
12 cherry tomatoes, halved
Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Fresh basil, chopped
1 egg, for egg wash
1 teaspoon flaky salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Spray the bottom of one 12-count muffin tin with cooking spray. Spray the inside of another 12-count muffin tin with cooking spray as well.
Step 3: Place the muffin tin sprayed on the inside on your counter, then lay the sheet of puff pastry over it. Set the muffin tin sprayed on the bottom on top of the pastry and gently press down to push the pastry into each well of the bottom tin. Remove the top muffin tin carefully.
Step 4: Put one slice of fresh mozzarella into each pastry-lined well. Then arrange two halves of cherry tomatoes on top of the mozzarella.
Step 5: Using a pizza cutter, cut the pastry between the wells to create individual pieces. Brush the edges of each piece with the egg wash, then sprinkle flaky salt on top.
Step 6: Place the pastry bites in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Step 7: Remove from the oven, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a small basil leaf under the mozzarella slice before topping with tomatoes.
Try using flavored balsamic glaze, like fig or raspberry, to add a unique twist.
If you prefer a spicier bite, add a pinch of red pepper flakes on top before baking.
Use low-moisture mozzarella if fresh mozzarella releases too much liquid during baking.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes to keep the pastry crisp. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a woman's hand holding a small bite-sized tart. The tart has three visible layers: a golden-brown crispy crust at the base, creamy white cheese or sauce in the middle, and a bright red cherry tomato on top, which is cut in half. Small green herbs are sprinkled around the tart on a white marbled surface, with more similar tarts blurred in the background. The lighting makes the colors look fresh and vivid. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare Caprese Bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bites a few hours before baking. Keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to bake, then add the egg wash and flaky salt just before putting them in the oven.

What can I use if I don’t have puff pastry?

If puff pastry is unavailable, you can try using phyllo dough layers brushed with butter, though the texture will be different. Alternatively, a biscuit or croissant dough may work, but results will vary.