These Balsamic Glazed Caprese Skewers are a tasty treat! They mix fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil—perfect for a snack or a party bite.
Drizzling them with balsamic glaze makes them extra special. I love how each bite is fresh and tangy. They always vanish fast at gatherings, and I can’t blame anyone for going back for more! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems add a pop of sweetness. If you can’t find them, you could use grape tomatoes. Just make sure they’re ripe for the best flavor!
Fresh Mozzarella (Bocconcini): I love the creaminess these add. If you prefer a dairy-free option, look for cashew or almond-based mozzarella substitutes, which are becoming more popular.
Fresh Basil: Basil gives a wonderful aroma. If you can’t find it, fresh parsley or spinach can offer a different flavor, though it won’t have the same herbal punch.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is crucial for that tangy glaze. If you don’t have balsamic, try red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar for a similar taste. It’s a handy substitute!
Glaze Sweetener: I often use honey, but maple syrup is a great vegan substitute too. This sweetness balances the acidity well.
How Do I Make the Balsamic Glaze Perfectly?
Making the balsamic glaze can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it just right! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a medium saucepan and pour in your balsamic vinegar and sweetener (if using). Stir it together to mix.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Then, lower the heat to keep it simmering, which cooks it down.
- Stir occasionally and keep an eye on it as it thickens. Aim for about an 8-10 minute reduction until it’s syrupy and coats the back of a spoon. Don’t rush this step!
- Remove from heat and let cool. It will thicken a bit more as it cools!
Making the glaze well adds a special touch to your skewers, enhancing every bite!
Balsamic Glazed Caprese Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 cherry tomatoes
- 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 20 fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for glaze sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 10 small wooden skewers or toothpicks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, plus around 10 minutes to make the balsamic glaze. In total, you’ll be ready to serve these delicious skewers in about 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Balsamic Glaze:
In a small saucepan, pour in the balsamic vinegar and add the honey or brown sugar if you want a sweeter glaze. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Then, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it to thicken and reduce by about half, forming a syrupy consistency. Once done, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Ingredients:
While the glaze is cooling, wash your cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Use a soft towel to pat them dry gently, so they’re ready for assembling the skewers.
3. Assemble the Skewers:
Take a skewer or toothpick and start threading your ingredients. First, add one cherry tomato, then a folded basil leaf (if it’s large), followed by a mozzarella ball. If your skewers are longer, you can repeat this pattern until you reach the end. You can finish with either a tomato or mozzarella ball to keep it balanced and pretty!
4. Season the Skewers:
Lay your skewers on a nice serving plate. Drizzle them with olive oil for a bit of richness and sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This will enhance all those fresh flavors!
5. Add the Balsamic Glaze:
Finally, take your cooled balsamic glaze and drizzle it generously over the skewers. This sweet and tangy touch is what makes them irresistible!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
These skewers are best served fresh! Enjoy them as a delightful appetizer or snack. They’re sure to impress your family and friends with their vibrant colors and delicious flavors!
I hope you have fun making and sharing these delectable Balsamic Glazed Caprese Skewers!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a stronger flavor, try using feta or goat cheese in place of mozzarella. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces to fit on the skewers.
Are These Skewers Gluten-Free?
Yes, these skewers are naturally gluten-free as they contain no bread or gluten-containing ingredients. Perfect for a gluten-free diet!
How to Store Any Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the tomatoes from getting too mushy, it’s best to keep the balsamic glaze separate and drizzle it on just before serving.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the skewers a few hours in advance! Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Drizzle the balsamic glaze on right before serving for the best taste.