Easy Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe with Balsamic Glaze for Perfect Appetizers
A quick and easy appetizer featuring fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and a homemade balsamic glaze. Perfect for entertaining or a light, fresh snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 20-25 skewers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, washed and dried
- 1 small bunch fresh basil leaves (about 20 leaves)
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 20–25 wooden skewers or toothpicks
Instructions
- Prepare the balsamic glaze: Pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Stir in 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let it reduce, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Prep the ingredients: Drain the fresh mozzarella balls and pat dry with paper towels. Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Rinse the basil leaves and gently pat dry.
- Assemble the skewers: On each skewer or toothpick, thread one cherry tomato, followed by a fresh basil leaf folded in half if large, then one mozzarella ball. Repeat until all ingredients are used. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter.
- Season and drizzle: Lightly sprinkle the assembled skewers with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil if using. Spoon or drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze generously over the top.
- Serve or chill: Serve immediately at room temperature, or chill for up to an hour if preferred. Best enjoyed fresh to prevent basil wilting.
Notes
Use fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) for best texture. Avoid excess moisture on ingredients to prevent sogginess. If glaze thickens too much after cooling, whisk in a teaspoon of warm water to loosen. Assemble skewers just before serving to keep basil fresh. For a vegan version, substitute mozzarella with marinated tofu or vegan cheese balls and use maple syrup instead of honey.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Fiber: 0.3
- Protein: 4
Keywords: Caprese skewers, fresh mozzarella, balsamic glaze, appetizer, easy recipe, Italian appetizer, party food, fresh basil, cherry tomatoes