Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I searched for the perfect spooky snack to enchant my Halloween gathering, a playful idea struck me—Caprese Crostini Ghosts! These delightful bites are not just a feast for the eyes; they bring the classic Italian flavors of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and vibrant pesto together in an adorable ghostly shape. With a prep time of under 20 minutes, this quick and easy appetizer will have both kids and adults raving. Not only do they offer a fun twist on traditional crostini, but they’re also a vegetarian delight that makes entertaining a breeze. Are you ready to whip up some Halloween magic and impress your guests? Why are Caprese Crostini Ghosts a must-try? Fun and Festive: The spooky design makes these crostini perfect for Halloween parties, captivating both kids and adults alike. Quick Preparation: With a prep time under 20 minutes, these bites fit perfectly into your busy schedule. Deliciously Unique: Combining fresh ingredients like mozzarella and pesto results in a flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is an excellent choice for vegetarian guests, allowing everyone to indulge in delightful flavors. Versatile Enjoyment: These crostini can be paired with various dips or served alongside other snacks for a complete spread. Easy Assembly: No complicated techniques are required, making it a breeze to get your little helpers involved in the kitchen and create unforgettable memories! Caprese Crostini Ghosts Ingredients For the Crostini Base Fresh Baguette – Cut into 1/2-inch diagonal slices for a perfect crispy texture. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Drizzle on bread to enhance flavor and achieve golden crispiness. For the Ghosts Fresh Whole-Milk Mozzarella – Slice into 1/4-inch planks, freeze briefly for easier ghost shape cutting. Campari Tomatoes – Sweet and juicy; feel free to substitute with grape tomatoes for an equally tasty option. For Assembly Pesto – Spread about 1 teaspoon on each crostini for a burst of flavor; try sun-dried tomato pesto as a fun twist! Balsamic Glaze – Use to draw whimsical ghost faces for a spooky finishing touch; a thicker smear yields better results. Dive into the Halloween spirit with these delightful Caprese Crostini Ghosts and watch your guests smile! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Caprese Crostini Ghosts Step 1: Preheat the Oven Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that your crostini will bake to a perfect golden crisp, making them an ideal base for the adventurous Caprese Crostini Ghosts. While the oven heats, you can gather your other ingredients and prepare for the fun ahead. Step 2: Prepare the Mozzarella Take the whole-milk mozzarella and place it in the freezer for about 10 minutes. Chilling the cheese makes it easier to slice cleanly into planks. Once firm, remove from the freezer and get ready to create those adorable ghost shapes that will steal the show! Step 3: Slice the Baguette Grab your fresh baguette and cut it diagonally into 1/2-inch slices. This shape not only provides a perfect canvas for your toppings but also enhances the texture contrast in your Caprese Crostini Ghosts. Make sure your slices are uniform for even baking. Step 4: Bake the Bread Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle them lightly with extra-virgin olive oil for added flavor and crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-9 minutes, or until golden brown. Look for a light crispy texture to ensure a delightful bite as the base for the crostini. Step 5: Cut the Mozzarella Shapes Once the mozzarella has chilled sufficiently, slice it into 1/4-inch planks. With a ghost-shaped cookie cutter, press down on the mozzarella planks to create your spooky ghosts. This step adds a playful touch to your Caprese Crostini Ghosts that kids will love. Step 6: Assemble the Crostini Spread approximately 1 teaspoon of pesto on each toasted baguette slice. Layer your ghost-shaped mozzarella on top, then add a slice of Campari tomato to each one. This combination will be a feast for both the eyes and the mouth, bringing the festive theme to life. Step 7: Decorate with Balsamic Glaze Using a small squeeze bottle or spoon, drizzle balsamic glaze to create spooky faces on your mozzarella ghosts. This little detail enhances the Halloween spirit of your Caprese Crostini Ghosts and adds a sweet tangy flavor that complements the ingredients beautifully. Step 8: Serve and Enjoy Once assembled, arrange your festive Caprese Crostini Ghosts on a decorative platter. It’s best to serve them immediately while the bread is crisp, ensuring that every bite is as delightful as it was designed to be. Watch your guests smile as they enjoy this playful and delicious Halloween treat! How to Store and Freeze Caprese Crostini Ghosts Best Enjoyed Fresh: These delightful Caprese Crostini Ghosts are best served immediately after assembly to retain their crispy texture and playful appearance. Fridge: If you have leftovers, store the crostini components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The mozzarella and pesto can last up to 3 days, but the crostini bread is best consumed within 1 day for optimal crispness. Freezer: To freeze ingredients, wrap slices of baguette in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. You can also freeze mozzarella and pesto separately without compromising flavor. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, toast the frozen baguette slices in the oven until warm and crisp again. Assemble the crostini with fresh toppings for a deliciously spooky snack! What to Serve with Caprese Crostini Ghosts? Create a delightful Halloween spread that enchants your guests and complements these playful bites! Crispy Caesar Salad: The crunch of romaine and the warmth of garlic croutons makes a refreshing contrast to the crostini’s creaminess. Pumpkin Soup: A warm, velvety soup with a hint of spice brings fall flavors to your table, soothing and warming up the festive atmosphere. Olive Tapenade: The briny, tangy notes of tapenade provide a savory burst that pairs well with the sweet and creamy ingredients of the crostini. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies add a comforting, earthy feel, bringing vibrancy and depth alongside the lightness of the crostini. Sweet Potato Fries: Their crispy exterior and sweet flavor offer a wonderful texture contrast, making them a satisfying addition to your spooky feast. Sparkling Apple Cider: Refreshing and festive, a glass of fizzy apple cider enhances the joyful spirit of Halloween and complements the flavors perfectly. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Indulge your sweet tooth with these festive treats that add a playful touch and a hint of romance to the gathering. Gather these pairings, and let your Halloween celebration shine with deliciousness and delight! Make Ahead Options These Caprese Crostini Ghosts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the toasted baguette slices up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake them as directed, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container to keep their crispiness. Additionally, the mozzarella ghosts can be cut and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just place them between layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the crostini with pesto and tomatoes, then drizzle with balsamic glaze for that spooky touch. This way, your delicious appetizers will be just as delightful with minimal last-minute effort! Caprese Crostini Ghosts Variations & Substitutions Feel free to let your creativity soar and customize these spooky snacks to suit your taste! Pesto Swap: Try using sun-dried tomato pesto instead of traditional pesto for a punchy flavor that will surprise your palate. Garlic Essence: Replace pesto with garlic-infused olive oil for an aromatic twist that complements the creamy mozzarella beautifully. Tomato Alternatives: Grapes tomatoes can easily stand in for Campari; just slice them into rounds for that same juicy bite. Cheese Variety: Swap fresh mozzarella for burrata for an ultra-creamy experience that oozes deliciousness as you take a bite. Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or arugula leaves to the top of each crostini for a peppery kick and a pop of green color. Add Some Heat: For a spicy twist, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on the tomatoes for a ghostly surprise that adds a tasty heat! Fun Faces: If you have a variety of colored glazes or sauces, consider using them to create fun Halloween-themed decorations for your ghost faces. Platter Ideas: Surround your crostini with charcuterie elements like olives, salami, or roasted red peppers from your favorite recipes to create an inviting spread. Feeling adventurous? Pair them with delicious side dishes like a mixed greens salad or some simple garlic bread. It’s all about making this delightful recipe your own! Tips for the Best Caprese Crostini Ghosts Mozzarella Magic: Freeze the mozzarella for a quick 10 minutes. This makes cutting the ghost shapes easy and ensures clean edges. Bread Bliss: Ensure the baguette slices are uniform for even baking and a perfect crispy texture. Diagonal cuts add style too! Pesto Perfection: Don’t skimp on the pesto! It’s the burst of flavor that complements the creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes beautifully. Timing is Key: Assemble the Caprese Crostini Ghosts just before serving to maintain that enticing crispness of the bread. Ghostly Faces: Use a thicker balsamic glaze for better results when decorating your ghost faces. It sticks better and gives a more defined look! Caprese Crostini Ghosts Recipe FAQs What type of mozzarella should I use for the Caprese Crostini Ghosts? Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using fresh whole-milk mozzarella. This cheese has the creamy texture that creates delightful ghosts. If you’re short on time, a pre-sliced mozzarella can work, but fresh is always best for flavor! How long can I store the ingredients for Caprese Crostini Ghosts? Generally, if you store the crostini components separately in airtight containers, the mozzarella and pesto will stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, assembled crostini are best enjoyed immediately after making them to keep that crispy texture! Can I freeze the ingredients for my Caprese Crostini Ghosts? Yes! To freeze the baguette for later use, simply wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Just remember to toast them in the oven to crisp up again before assembling the crostini. What should I do if my mozzarella is too soft to cut? No problem at all! If your mozzarella is a bit too soft, try placing it in the freezer for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will firm it up nicely and make cutting those ghost shapes a breeze. Alternatively, you can use a sharp knife for a clean cut. Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of? Very important! Since this recipe includes dairy, if you have guests with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, consider using lactose-free mozzarella or another cheese alternative. Additionally, always check the pesto ingredients for any allergens if you’re making your own. How do I ensure my Caprese Crostini Ghosts maintain their crispness? To keep that delightful crunch, assemble the crostini just before serving! If you have leftovers, store each component (the bread, mozzarella, tomatoes, and pesto) separately. This way, you can crisp up the bread again in the oven before adding the toppings when you’re ready to enjoy them! Caprese Crostini Ghosts for a Spooktacular Halloween Treat Enjoy delightful Caprese Crostini Ghosts, a fun and spooky Halloween appetizer combining classic Italian flavors. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 9 minutes minsTotal Time 29 minutes mins Servings: 12 piecesCourse: AppetizersCuisine: ItalianCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crostini Base1 loaf Fresh Baguette Cut into 1/2-inch diagonal slices2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Drizzle on bread for flavorFor the Ghosts8 ounces Fresh Whole-Milk Mozzarella Slice into 1/4-inch planks8 ounces Campari Tomatoes Can substitute with grape tomatoesFor Assembly1 teaspoon Pesto Spread on each crostini2 tablespoons Balsamic Glaze For decorating ghost faces Equipment Ovenbaking sheetCookie cutterKnifesqueeze bottle Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Caprese Crostini GhostsPreheat the Oven to 400°F (200°C).Prepare the Mozzarella by freezing it for 10 minutes.Slice the Baguette into 1/2-inch diagonal slices.Bake the Bread for 8-9 minutes until golden brown.Cut the Mozzarella into ghost shapes using a cookie cutter.Assemble the Crostini with pesto, mozzarella, and tomato.Decorate with balsamic glaze to create ghost faces.Serve immediately on a decorative platter. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 6gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg NotesBest enjoyed fresh, assemble right before serving to maintain crispness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
