Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Cups

Of all the appetizer recipes that have graced my kitchen over the years, there are a select few that become legendary among my family and friends. These Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Cups have officially entered that hall of fame. I first made them for a casual summer get-together, hoping for a simple, crowd-pleasing snack that wouldn’t keep me stuck in the kitchen. What I got was a runaway success. My husband, who usually gravitates towards meaty options, couldn’t stop eating them. My kids, who are often skeptical of anything with visible “green stuff” (in this case, basil), were devouring them two at a time. The reaction was universal: a moment of surprised silence after the first bite, followed by an enthusiastic “Wow, what are these?!” The magic is in the contrast of textures and flavors. You get the incredible crunch of the golden-brown wonton wrapper, a vessel so perfectly crispy it shatters satisfyingly with each bite. This gives way to a warm, juicy burst from the sweet cherry tomato, mingling with the creamy, melted mozzarella cheese. The final notes of fresh, aromatic basil and a sweet, tangy drizzle of balsamic glaze tie everything together in a perfect symphony of flavor. They look elegant and complicated, like something you’d order at a chic bistro, but they are deceptively simple to prepare. This recipe has become my go-to for everything from holiday parties and game day snacks to a light lunch for myself. It’s a guaranteed hit, a conversation starter, and a recipe that will have everyone asking for the secret.

Ingredients for Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Cups

Here is the simple, fresh list of ingredients you’ll need to create these irresistible bites. The quality of these components will directly impact the final flavor, so choose the best you can find for a truly memorable appetizer.

• Wonton Wrappers: 24 square wrappers. These thin sheets of dough are the key to creating the perfectly crisp, edible cup. You can typically find them in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores, often near the tofu or fresh pasta.
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint (about 2 cups), halved or quartered. Look for ripe, sweet cherry or grape tomatoes. Their natural sweetness is the star of the filling, providing a juicy burst that contrasts beautifully with the crispy shell.
• Fresh Mozzarella Pearls (Ciliegine): 8 ounces (about 1 ½ cups), drained. These are small, cherry-sized balls of fresh mozzarella. Their mild, milky flavor and superb melting quality make them the ideal cheese for this recipe. If you can’t find pearls, you can dice a larger ball of fresh mozzarella.
• Fresh Basil: ¼ cup, chiffonade (thinly sliced). There is no substitute for fresh basil here. Its sweet, peppery, and aromatic profile is the soul of the classic Caprese flavor combination. Dried basil will not provide the same fresh, vibrant taste.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, plus more for brushing the muffin tin. A good quality olive oil will not only prevent sticking but will also add a subtle, fruity, and peppery flavor to both the wonton cups and the filling.
• Balsamic Glaze: 2-3 tablespoons, for drizzling. This is a thickened, sweetened balsamic vinegar. It provides a concentrated, tangy, and sweet finish that elevates the entire appetizer. You can buy it pre-made or easily make your own.
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon. This adds a gentle, savory depth to the filling without the harsh bite of raw garlic.
• Sea Salt: ½ teaspoon, or to taste. Salt enhances all the other flavors, making the tomatoes sweeter and the cheese more savory.
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground. A touch of freshly ground pepper adds a mild, spicy warmth that rounds out the filling.

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions carefully to ensure your Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Cups turn out perfectly crisp, flavorful, and delicious every single time. The process is straightforward and broken down into three main stages: preparing the cups, making the filling, and the final assembly and bake.

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Position a rack in the middle of the oven to ensure even heat distribution. Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with olive oil or a non-stick cooking spray. This is a crucial step to prevent the wonton wrappers from sticking to the pan after baking.

Step 2: Form and Pre-Bake the Wonton Cups
Gently press one wonton wrapper into each muffin cup. Use your fingers to carefully push the wrapper down and against the sides of the cup, creating a small, star-shaped vessel. Try to avoid tearing the wrapper, but don’t worry if small tears occur. Once all 24 wrappers are in the tin, place it in the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes. This pre-baking step is the secret to a perfectly crispy cup. You are looking for the edges to become lightly golden and the bottom to be firm. This initial bake creates a barrier that prevents the filling from making the cups soggy. Once done, remove the tin from the oven and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato and Mozzarella Filling
While the wonton cups are pre-baking, you can prepare the filling. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, the drained fresh mozzarella pearls, the chiffonade of fresh basil, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Gently stir everything together until the tomatoes and mozzarella are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. Be gentle to avoid mashing the tomatoes or breaking the mozzarella pearls too much.

Step 4: Fill the Wonton Cups
Using a small spoon, carefully divide the tomato and mozzarella mixture evenly among the pre-baked wonton cups. Be mindful not to overfill them. A heaping spoonful in each cup is usually the perfect amount. You want the filling to be nestled inside the cup, not spilling over the sides, as this can cause the cheese to burn onto the muffin tin.

Step 5: The Final Bake
Return the filled muffin tin to the 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for another 8-10 minutes. The cups are done when the edges of the wonton wrappers are a deep golden brown, the tomatoes are soft and bursting, and the mozzarella cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden in spots. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes, as the thin wonton edges can go from golden to burnt very quickly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the muffin tin from the oven. Let the cups cool in the tin for about 2-3 minutes. This allows them to set slightly, making them easier to remove. Use a small offset spatula or a butter knife to gently lift each cup out of the tin and arrange them on a serving platter. For the final, elegant touch, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the cups. You can do this in a zigzag pattern for a beautiful presentation. If desired, you can also sprinkle them with a little extra fresh basil before serving. Serve immediately while they are warm and the cheese is gooey.

Nutrition Facts

This nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used.

• Servings: 24 individual cups
• Calories per serving (1 cup): Approximately 45-55 kcal. These bites are light and flavorful, making them a relatively low-calorie option for a party appetizer.
• Protein: 2g. The mozzarella cheese provides a nice little boost of protein, contributing to the satisfying nature of this snack.
• Carbohydrates: 4g. Primarily from the wonton wrapper, this provides the structure and satisfying crunch of the appetizer.
• Fat: 2.5g. A mix of healthy monounsaturated fat from the olive oil and saturated fat from the mozzarella cheese, providing flavor and richness.
• Sodium: 95mg. This value is relatively low for an appetizer, but it can be adjusted based on how much salt you add and the sodium content of your chosen wonton wrappers and cheese.

Preparation time

This recipe is prized for its speed and efficiency, making it perfect for last-minute guests or when you need a quick addition to a meal.

• Total Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
• Prep Time: 10-15 minutes. This includes washing and halving the tomatoes, preparing the basil, and mixing the filling. You can do this while the wonton cups are pre-baking to be extra efficient.
• Cook Time: 13-17 minutes. This is the combined time for the pre-bake and the final bake. It’s a quick trip in the oven to achieve that perfect golden-brown crispiness and melted cheese.

How to Serve

Presentation and pairing can turn this simple appetizer into the star of the show. Here are some creative and delicious ways to serve your Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Cups.

• On a Platter:
  • The Classic White Platter: Arrange the cups in neat rows or a circular pattern on a large, clean white platter. The white background makes the colors of the tomato, basil, and balsamic glaze pop, creating a visually stunning effect.
  • The Rustic Wooden Board: For a more rustic, farm-to-table feel, serve them on a large wooden cutting board or a slate cheese board. Garnish the board with a few whole basil leaves and some whole cherry tomatoes for a beautiful, cohesive look.
• As Part of an Appetizer Spread:
  • Italian-Themed Board: Create a “deconstructed” Italian appetizer board. Place the Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Cups in the center and surround them with other Italian favorites like prosciutto-wrapped melon, marinated olives, artichoke hearts, and breadsticks.
  • Game Day Platter: Serve them alongside other crowd-pleasing snacks like chicken wings, sliders, and a veggie dip platter. They offer a lighter, fresher counterpoint to heavier game day fare.
  • Holiday Party Favorite: Arrange them on a festive platter garnished with sprigs of rosemary to resemble a wreath for a beautiful Christmas or holiday appetizer.
• Drink Pairings:
  • Wine: A crisp, dry white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness of the cheese. A light-bodied red like a Chianti also works well. For a celebratory feel, a dry Prosecco is an excellent choice.
  • Beer: A light lager or a pilsner won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the appetizer.
  • Non-Alcoholic: A sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a glass of iced tea with mint are refreshing companions.

Additional tips

Master this recipe and make it your own with these eight expert tips. These small adjustments can enhance flavor, improve texture, and help you adapt the recipe for any occasion.

1. Moisture is the Enemy of Crispiness: The number one cause of a soggy wonton cup is excess moisture from the filling. To combat this, gently pat your mozzarella pearls and halved cherry tomatoes with a paper towel before adding them to the mixing bowl. This removes surface water and ensures your cups stay wonderfully crunchy.
2. Don’t Skip the Pre-Bake: It might be tempting to save a few minutes by filling the raw wonton wrappers and baking them all at once, but this is a critical mistake. The 5-7 minute pre-bake is essential. It creates a firm, lightly toasted shell that can withstand the moisture of the filling during the second bake, guaranteeing a crispy final product.
3. Make Your Own Balsamic Glaze: While store-bought glaze is convenient, making your own is incredibly easy and often tastes better. Simply pour about 1 cup of good-quality balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it reduce for 10-15 minutes, or until it has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. It will thicken more as it cools.
4. Get Creative with Variations: These cups are a fantastic base for experimentation.
   • Pesto Power: Swap the olive oil and basil for a tablespoon of prepared pesto.
   • Mediterranean Twist: Add finely chopped kalamata olives and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
   • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
   • Meaty Addition: Add finely diced prosciutto or mini pepperoni for a savory, salty bite.
5. Wonton Wrapper Wisdom: Wonton wrappers can dry out very quickly once the package is opened. Work efficiently, and keep the wrappers you aren’t currently using covered with a damp paper towel. This will keep them pliable and prevent them from cracking as you press them into the muffin tin.
6. Use a Mini Muffin Tin for Best Results: While you can use a standard-sized muffin tin (you may need to use two wrappers per cup, overlapping them), a 24-cup mini muffin tin creates the perfect one-bite appetizer. The ratio of crispy wonton to savory filling is absolutely ideal in the mini size.
7. The Final Garnish Matters: Don’t add the fresh basil to the filling before the final bake. High heat can cause the basil to wilt and turn dark. Instead, stir most of it into the filling after it has baked, or simply use it as a fresh garnish on top right before serving. The same goes for the balsamic glaze; drizzling it on the warm cups just before they hit the table ensures a glossy, beautiful finish and the freshest flavor.
8. Scaling for a Crowd: This recipe is easily doubled or tripled for a large party. Use multiple muffin tins and set up an assembly line to make the process go faster. You can pre-bake all the wonton cups ahead of time. Let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day before filling and doing the final bake.

FAQ section

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about making Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Cups.

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can do most of the prep in advance. You can pre-bake the wonton cups and let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. You can also mix the filling ingredients (except for the basil) and store it in a covered container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the pre-baked cups, bake for 8-10 minutes, and garnish with fresh basil and glaze. Avoid assembling them completely ahead of time, as the cups will become soggy.

2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The wonton cups will soften over time. To reheat, the best method is using an air fryer or a toaster oven set to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes. This will help re-crisp the wrapper. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make the cups chewy and soggy.

3. My wonton cups turned out soggy. What went wrong?
Sogginess is almost always caused by one of two things. First, you may have skipped the pre-baking step, which is essential for creating a moisture barrier. Second, your filling may have had too much liquid. Be sure to pat the tomatoes and mozzarella dry with a paper towel before mixing them into the filling to remove excess water.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella provides the classic Caprese flavor and a great “cheese pull,” other cheeses work well too. Crumbled feta or goat cheese would add a tangy flavor. A small cube of provolone or a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan and Asiago would also be delicious. Feel free to experiment based on your preferences.

5. Are these Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Cups considered healthy?
For an appetizer, they are a relatively healthy option. They are portion-controlled and feature fresh, whole-food ingredients like tomatoes and basil. They are baked, not fried, which significantly reduces the fat content compared to many other party foods. As with any food, moderation is key, but you can feel good about serving and enjoying these bites.

6. What can I use if I can’t find wonton wrappers?
If wonton wrappers aren’t available, you have a few alternatives. You can use circles of puff pastry or phyllo dough (be sure to butter each layer of phyllo). You can also use refrigerated biscuit or crescent roll dough, pressing small pieces into the muffin tin. Another option is to cut the crusts off of sandwich bread, flatten it with a rolling pin, and press it into the cups. Note that baking times may vary with these alternatives.

7. Can I freeze these appetizers?
It is not recommended to freeze these appetizers after they have been fully assembled and baked. The fresh tomatoes and wonton wrappers do not freeze well. The tomatoes will become watery and mushy upon thawing, and the wonton cups will lose their signature crispiness entirely. It’s best to enjoy them fresh.

8. Why do you use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Garlic powder is used in this recipe for a specific reason. It provides a consistent, mellow garlic flavor that distributes evenly throughout the filling without the risk of a harsh, raw bite. Fresh minced garlic can sometimes be overpowering in a delicate appetizer like this, and it has a higher tendency to burn during the final bake, which can create a bitter taste. Garlic powder offers all the savory depth with none of the risks.