How to Make the Perfect Flower Shaped Caprese Stacks
Italian · Easy · 15 min · 8 servings
Fresh mozzarella and tomatoes are cut into flower shapes using cookie cutters and stacked together with basil to create stunning edible flower arrangements perfect for an elegant kids party. These colorful stacks are drizzled with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finishing touch.
Why this recipe works
This Flower Shaped Caprese Stacks recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 15 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 120 calories with 7g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 400 grams fresh mozzarella sliced into half centimeter rounds
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes sliced into half centimeter rounds
- 20 leaves fresh basil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pinch flaky sea salt
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Cut the Flower Shapes
Use a medium flower shaped cookie cutter to press through each slice of mozzarella and tomato, creating matching flower shaped pieces. Work on a clean cutting board and use a toothpick to push pieces out of the cutter cleanly.
Step 2: Build the Stacks
Place one flower shaped tomato piece on a serving platter. Top with a basil leaf, then a flower shaped mozzarella piece. Press gently to secure the layers. Repeat to create as many stacks as possible with remaining ingredients.
Step 3: Secure with Picks
Push a small decorative toothpick or cocktail skewer down through the center of each flower stack to hold all layers together securely. This also makes them easy for kids to pick up without the layers falling apart.
Step 4: Dress and Serve
Drizzle balsamic glaze and olive oil over all the stacks just before serving. Finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each one. Arrange on a platter with extra basil leaves as decoration and serve immediately.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- fresh mozzarella → vegan mozzarella for a completely dairy free version
- balsamic glaze → pesto drizzle for a more herbaceous flavor
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Cutting flowers from mozzarella that is too cold and firm which causes it to crack and crumble instead of cutting cleanly
- Dressing the stacks too far in advance which causes the tomatoes to release water and make the platter soggy
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 120 calories, 7g protein, 4g carbs, 8g fat, 1g fiber.
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