Description
This Pesto Caprese Puff Pastry Pizza combines flaky puff pastry with fresh basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Baked to golden perfection and finished with fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, it’s a quick and elegant Italian-inspired appetizer perfect for entertaining or a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- flour for dusting
Toppings
- 1/3 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Finishing
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Roll out the pastry: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the puff pastry into a 10×12-inch rectangle to create an even base for the toppings.
- Dock the pastry: Transfer the rolled pastry to the baking sheet and use a fork to prick holes over the center area, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges to help the pastry puff up nicely.
- Apply pesto: Spread the basil pesto evenly over the center section of the puff pastry, avoiding the edges so they can puff separately.
- Add toppings: Layer the sliced fresh mozzarella evenly over the pesto, then scatter the halved cherry tomatoes on top.
- Season and cheese: Drizzle the olive oil over the toppings, then sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly. Finish with a generous sprinkle of shredded Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the pizza: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the pastry is golden, puffed, and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
- Cool and garnish: Remove from the oven and let the pizza cool for about 5 minutes before topping with fresh basil leaves and drizzling with balsamic glaze, if desired.
- Slice and serve: Cut into six slices and serve warm to enjoy the crisp pastry and fresh flavors at their best.
Notes
- You can substitute basil pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto for a flavorful twist.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking if you like a bit of heat.
- Serve immediately after baking to retain the crispness of the puff pastry.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
