Description
This Pesto Caprese Puff Pastry Pizza combines the flaky, buttery texture of puff pastry with vibrant basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, and juicy cherry tomatoes. Topped with fragrant fresh basil and baked to golden perfection, this easy-to-make pizza is a deliciously elegant appetizer or light meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry Base
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Toppings
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet onto the lined baking sheet. Using a knife, score a 1-inch border around the edges without cutting all the way through the dough; this will create a puffed crust when baked.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the beaten egg along the scored border to help it puff up and develop a beautiful golden color during baking.
- Spread Pesto: Evenly spread the basil pesto inside the scored border to form the flavorful base layer of the pizza.
- Add Toppings: Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes and slices or torn pieces of fresh mozzarella evenly over the pesto layer for a fresh, colorful topping.
- Season and Drizzle: Drizzle the toppings with olive oil and season lightly with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes until the puff pastry is puffed up and golden brown, and the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before use to make it easier to work with.
- For a homemade pesto, blend fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil.
- You can substitute cherry tomatoes with grape tomatoes or thinly sliced Roma tomatoes.
- For a crispier crust, bake on a preheated pizza stone or baking steel.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
