Cheesy Caprese Pesto Tarts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks. The tarts offer a beautiful balance of crispy, cheesy, and fresh notes, ideal for entertaining or a casual weekend treat. Plus, they’re highly customizable and look as amazing as they taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)

• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup of fresh mozzarella cheese, diced

• 1/4 cup of basil pesto

• 1 tablespoon of olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 large egg (for egg wash)

• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a floured surface and cut it into squares, about 4 inches each.

3. Transfer the pastry squares onto the prepared baking sheet.

4. Score a border about 1/2 inch from the edges of each square without cutting through to create a raised crust.

5. Spread a spoonful of basil pesto within the scored area of each tart.

6. Evenly distribute the diced mozzarella and halved cherry tomatoes over the pesto.

7. Drizzle the tarts lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

8. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it onto the borders of each tart for a golden finish.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden.

10. Let the tarts cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 tarts and takes about 40-45 minutes in total: 15 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking.

Variations

• Add slices of grilled chicken or turkey for a protein boost.

• Use sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper, more intense tomato flavor.

• Sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on top before baking for extra cheesiness.

• Replace basil pesto with arugula or spinach pesto for a different twist.

• Create a spicy version by adding a dash of crushed red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes to revive the crispy texture. It’s not recommended to freeze these tarts, as puff pastry can lose its crispness after freezing and thawing.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought puff pastry?

Yes, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe.

Can I make these tarts ahead of time?

You can prepare them ahead, but it’s best to bake them fresh for maximum crispness.

How do I store leftover tarts?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, goat cheese or shredded provolone would work nicely too.

What if I don’t have fresh basil for garnish?

You can omit it or use a sprinkle of dried basil or oregano instead.

Can I make a bigger tart instead of individual ones?

Definitely, just adjust the baking time slightly to ensure it bakes through.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese and a vegan pesto, and skip the egg wash or replace it with plant-based milk.

How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes over the pesto before topping with cheese and tomatoes.

What other vegetables can I add?

Thin slices of zucchini, roasted red peppers, or olives would be great additions.

Can I freeze the baked tarts?

It’s not recommended as the pastry may lose its texture, but you can freeze the prepared (unbaked) tarts and bake them fresh.

Conclusion

Cheesy Caprese Pesto Tarts are a simple yet stunning way to enjoy the fresh flavors of spring. Perfect for parties, brunches, or an easy weeknight dinner, these golden, flaky treats are as beautiful as they are delicious. Whip up a batch and watch them disappear in no time!