Name: Mozzarella Cheese Skulls (Halloween Appetizer)
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 16 oz fresh mozzarella (ciliegine or sliced); 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp smoked paprika (or chili powder), plus more for dusting; 2 tbsp balsamic glaze; Fresh herbs (basil, thyme, or rosemary), for garnish; Optional: prosciutto, salami, or pepperoni, for serving

Description

Spooky, no-cook mozzarella cheese skulls molded in silicone, dusted with smoked paprika and balsamic glaze—perfect for Halloween buffet food ideas and Halloween dinners for adults.

Ingredients

Scale

16 oz fresh mozzarella (ciliegine or sliced)

1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 tsp kosher salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 tsp smoked paprika (or chili powder), plus more for dusting

2 tbsp balsamic glaze

Fresh herbs (basil, thyme, or rosemary), for garnish

Optional: prosciutto, salami, or pepperoni, for serving

Instructions

1. Drain mozzarella and pat very dry to remove excess moisture.

2. Toss mozzarella with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika.

3. Press mozzarella firmly into a silicone skull mold, smoothing the tops level.

4. Set the mold on a tray; refrigerate 1 hour or freeze 15–20 minutes to firm.

5. Gently unmold the skulls; trim rough edges with a small knife for clean detail.

6. Lightly dust with more smoked paprika; drizzle thin lines of balsamic glaze.

7. Arrange on a dark platter with fresh herbs; add optional meats alongside.

8. Serve immediately, or refrigerate in an airtight container up to 24 hours.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 90 kcal
Sodium: 170 mg
Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 1 g
Protein: 6 g