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Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe Easy Homemade Appetizers with Sweet Balsamic Glaze

fresh caprese skewers - featured image

Fresh Caprese skewers with sweet balsamic glaze are quick, easy, and perfect for entertaining. These bite-sized appetizers combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with a luscious homemade balsamic glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint (about 250g) cherry tomatoes, fresh and firm
  • 8 ounces (225g) mozzarella balls (Bocconcini or Ciliegine), fresh and drained
  • About 20 fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
  • ½ cup (120ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) brown sugar or honey
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (optional)
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • About 20 wooden skewers or toothpicks, soaked in water for 10 minutes if grilling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic glaze: Pour ½ cup (120ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 2 tablespoons (25g) brown sugar or honey. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reduces by about half and becomes syrupy (about 10-15 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Rinse cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cold water; pat dry thoroughly. Drain mozzarella balls and gently pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Assemble the skewers by threading a cherry tomato, a basil leaf (fold if large), then a mozzarella ball onto each wooden skewer or toothpick. Repeat until all ingredients are used, making about 20 skewers.
  4. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Lightly drizzle with extra virgin olive oil if using. Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Drizzle the sweet balsamic glaze over the skewers just before serving.
  6. Optional: Chill the skewers for up to 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors, or serve immediately.
  7. Optional grilling: Lightly grill the skewers for 1-2 minutes on each side before drizzling with glaze for a smoky flavor.

Notes

Use freshest ingredients for best flavor. When making balsamic glaze, keep heat low to avoid burning. Dry mozzarella well to prevent soggy skewers. Do not glaze skewers until just before serving to keep fresh appearance. Optional grilling adds smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, appetizer, fresh basil, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, balsamic glaze, easy recipe, party food, vegetarian