Caprese Strudel Wreath with Puff Pastry
Delight your guests with this stunning Easy Baked Caprese Strudel Wreath, a perfect blend of flaky puff pastry filled with fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. This festive dish is ideal for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or as a savory snack.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a baking sheet and cut a large circle. Cut out a smaller circle from the center to create a donut shape. Save the center for another use.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, chopped basil, balsamic glaze, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Wreath: Spread the filling in a ring between the inner and outer edges of the pastry.
- Create the Wreath Shape: Cut 1-inch strips around the outer edge of the pastry. Fold each strip over the filling and tuck it under the inner edge to create a woven wreath shape.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the pastry with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake for 18-22 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
- Serve: Drizzle with more balsamic glaze before serving.
Notes
1. Ingredient Quality Matters
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Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Opt for organic cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella (preferably buffalo mozzarella), and vibrant basil leaves. This not only enhances taste but also supports sustainable farming practices.
2. Puff Pastry Handling
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Keep the puff pastry cold until you are ready to use it. If it becomes too warm, it can become difficult to handle and may not puff up as nicely during baking. If necessary, chill it in the refrigerator for a few minutes before rolling out.
3. Customize Your Filling
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Feel free to get creative with the filling! You can add ingredients like spinach, roasted red peppers, or olives for extra flavor. Just ensure that any additional ingredients are not too watery to prevent sogginess in the pastry.
4. Perfecting the Wreath Shape
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When cutting the strips around the outer edge of the pastry, make sure they are evenly spaced (about 1 inch apart) for a uniform look. Tucking them under neatly will help maintain the wreath shape and create a beautiful presentation.
5. Serving Suggestions
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Serve your Caprese Strudel Wreath with a side of mixed greens or a simple salad to balance the richness of the pastry. Additionally, consider pairing it with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing complement.