Easy Mini Caprese Cups Recipe with Balsamic Drizzle Perfect for Parties
These easy mini Caprese cups combine fresh basil, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella balls in bite-sized cups, finished with a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for quick, fresh party snacks or light appetizers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: About 12-15 mini cups (3 cups serving size)
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- Cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered depending on size
- Fresh mozzarella pearls (bocconcini)
- Fresh basil leaves, whole and small
- Balsamic vinegar (to reduce into glaze)
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Mini phyllo cups or small endive leaves
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients (10 minutes): Rinse and halve the cherry tomatoes. Drain the mozzarella pearls well to avoid watery bites. Gently wash and pat dry basil leaves.
- Make the Balsamic Glaze (10-12 minutes): Pour 1/2 cup (120 ml) of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer until thickened into a syrupy consistency, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Toss the Salad Mix (5 minutes): In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and basil leaves. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon (15 ml) extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to coat evenly without bruising basil.
- Assemble the Cups (10 minutes): Place mini phyllo cups or endive leaves on a serving platter. Spoon a bit of the tomato-mozzarella mixture into each cup, ensuring each bite has a little of everything.
- Drizzle and Serve (2 minutes): Drizzle the balsamic glaze over each cup just before serving.
Notes
Do not rush the balsamic reduction to avoid burning and bitterness. Drain mozzarella pearls thoroughly to prevent sogginess. Assemble cups just before serving to keep phyllo crisp. Fresh basil leaves should be handled gently and torn rather than chopped to avoid bruising. Variations include adding prosciutto, pine nuts, or using avocado for a dairy-free option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 3 mini cups
- Calories: 120
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 6
Keywords: mini caprese cups, caprese appetizer, party snacks, balsamic glaze, mozzarella pearls, cherry tomatoes, basil, easy appetizer