Caprese phyllo cups are a delightful appetizer that combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad—juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil—served in a crisp, buttery phyllo cup. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a quick and elegant snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant and easy: A simple recipe with a gourmet presentation.
- Bursting with flavor: Classic Caprese ingredients shine in every bite.
- Customizable: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or your favorite toppings.
- Perfect for entertaining: Great as a starter or finger food at any event.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Mini phyllo shells (store-bought or homemade)
- Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or quartered
- Fresh mozzarella pearls (or diced mozzarella)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped or whole
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Directions
- Prepare the phyllo cups: If using store-bought phyllo shells, arrange them on a baking sheet. If making your own, press layers of buttered phyllo dough into mini muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Assemble the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine halved tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and chopped basil. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Toss gently to coat.
- Fill the cups: Spoon the tomato and mozzarella mixture into the phyllo shells, ensuring each cup has an even amount of filling.
- Bake (optional): If you prefer a warm appetizer, bake the filled cups at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to melt the mozzarella slightly.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle the cups with balsamic glaze if desired and garnish with extra basil leaves. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 12-15 cups
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (if baking shells or warming filling)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Pesto Caprese: Add a dollop of pesto to the bottom of each shell before adding the filling.
- Balsamic burst: Toss the tomatoes and mozzarella in balsamic vinegar instead of olive oil for extra tang.
- Meaty twist: Add crumbled prosciutto or crispy pancetta for a savory boost.
- Herbaceous flair: Sprinkle with fresh oregano or thyme for added depth.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store unfilled phyllo shells and filling separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat phyllo shells in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore crispiness before filling.
FAQs
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the filling and bake the phyllo shells in advance. Fill the cups just before serving to keep them crisp.
2. Can I use regular mozzarella?
Yes, dice regular mozzarella into small cubes if mozzarella pearls are unavailable.
3. How do I prevent phyllo cups from getting soggy?
Fill the cups just before serving, and avoid adding excess liquid to the filling.
4. Are phyllo cups gluten-free?
Most phyllo dough contains gluten. Use a gluten-free phyllo alternative for a gluten-free version.
5. Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?
Absolutely! Store-bought glaze is convenient and works perfectly for this recipe.
6. What other fillings work with phyllo cups?
Spinach and feta, crab salad, or hummus with roasted vegetables are great alternatives.
7. Can I serve these cold?
Yes, they’re delicious served cold or at room temperature.
8. What if I don’t have phyllo shells?
Use mini puff pastry shells or wonton wrappers baked in a mini muffin tin as a substitute.
9. Can I freeze phyllo cups?
Freeze unfilled phyllo shells in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before using.
10. What pairs well with Caprese phyllo cups?
Serve alongside a charcuterie board, a crisp white wine, or a light salad for a complete appetizer spread.
Conclusion
Caprese phyllo cups are a fresh and flavorful appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is impressive. With their crispy shells and vibrant filling, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Customize them to your liking and enjoy these delightful little bites!
Print
Caprese Phyllo Cups
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 15 phyllo cups 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking and Assembly
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Description
These Caprese Phyllo Cups are a delightful bite-sized appetizer perfect for any occasion. Featuring crispy phyllo shells filled with fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, they bring the classic flavors of a Caprese salad into a convenient handheld form.
Ingredients
- 1 package (15 count) pre-made phyllo shells
- 15 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 15 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare the Phyllo Cups:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the phyllo shells on a baking sheet. Bake for 5 minutes to lightly crisp them up. Remove from oven and let cool.
- Assemble the Caprese Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat.
- Fill the Phyllo Cups:
- Place one mozzarella ball and a cherry tomato half in each phyllo shell. Add a small piece of fresh basil on top.
- Drizzle and Serve:
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the filled phyllo cups just before serving. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispiness of the phyllo shells.
Notes
- To prevent the phyllo cups from getting soggy, assemble them just before serving.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a spicy twist.
- You can use grape tomatoes if cherry tomatoes aren’t available.