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Easy Caprese Skewers Recipe with Sweet Balsamic Drizzle Perfect for Parties

easy caprese skewers - featured image

Juicy cherry tomatoes, pillowy mozzarella, and vibrant basil leaves threaded onto simple skewers, finished with a drizzle of syrupy sweet balsamic glaze. A quick, fresh, and crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 cherry tomatoes, washed and dried
  • 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
  • 20 fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • About 20 wooden skewers or toothpicks

Instructions

  1. Make the Sweet Balsamic Glaze: Pour ½ cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons (25 g) brown sugar into a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reduces to a thick syrup—about 10-15 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Prep the Ingredients: While the glaze is simmering, wash and dry 20 cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. Drain the mozzarella bocconcini and pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid watery skewers.
  3. Toss Tomatoes & Basil: In a mixing bowl, gently toss the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves with 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  4. Assemble the Skewers: Thread one cherry tomato, one basil leaf (folded if large), then one mozzarella ball onto each skewer. Repeat until all are assembled.
  5. Plate and Drizzle: Arrange the skewers neatly on a serving platter. Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze generously over the skewers. Optionally, finish with a tiny extra sprinkle of cracked black pepper.
  6. Serve Immediately or Chill: These taste best fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving. Bring them back to room temperature for the most vibrant flavors.

Notes

Do not over-reduce the balsamic glaze to avoid bitterness. Dry mozzarella well to prevent soggy skewers. Assemble skewers just before serving to keep basil fresh. The glaze can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. For a dairy-free option, substitute mozzarella with marinated tofu or vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, easy appetizer, balsamic glaze, party food, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, finger food, gluten-free, vegetarian