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Halloween Bruschetta Appetizer

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This Halloween Bruschetta Appetizer brings a spooky twist to the Italian classic. With black-colored pesto, roasted cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella skulls, each bite feels festive, savory, and full of fun. It’s the perfect snack for a Halloween gathering that’s both creative and delicious.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 20 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 ounces mozzarella pearls (fresh)

  • 1 baguette (demi)

  • ½ cup basil pesto

  • black gel food coloring

  • 12 ounces cherry tomatoes

  • olive oil

  • salt

  • black pepper

  • red pepper flakes

  • fresh basil

  • balsamic vinegar glaze

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F.

  • Place a silicone skull mold on a baking sheet and fill each mold with mozzarella pearls.

  • Bake for 6–7 minutes until the cheese melts but does not brown.

  • Remove and press down gently with a lightly oiled spoon to form solid skulls. Dab excess moisture with a paper towel and let cool completely in molds.

  • Increase oven temperature to 475°F.

  • Slice cherry tomatoes in half lengthwise and place cut side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

  • Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

  • Roast for 10–15 minutes until soft and browned. Remove and set aside.

  • Slice baguette into ½-inch pieces, arrange on a baking sheet, and toast for 8–10 minutes until slightly golden.

  • Mix basil pesto with black gel food coloring, adding a small amount at a time until it turns dark.

  • Spread the black pesto evenly over each toasted bread slice.

  • Return to the oven for 8–10 more minutes until the edges are crisp.

  • Top each piece with roasted tomatoes and a mozzarella skull.

  • Serve on a platter drizzled with balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh basil.

Notes

  • Mozzarella skulls can be made a few hours in advance and kept refrigerated.

  • You can use vegan cheese and pesto for a dairy-free version.

  • Adjust the color intensity of pesto to match your Halloween theme.

  • Use any sturdy bread like ciabatta or sourdough if baguette isn’t available.

  • Author: Layla
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes