Fresh Caprese Skewers with Sweet Balsamic Glaze
These fresh caprese skewers combine creamy mozzarella, ripe cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves drizzled with a luscious sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect as a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing appetizer for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 20 skewers (about 4 servings) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 20 cherry tomatoes, ripe and firm
- 20 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained and patted dry
- 20 fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
- ½ cup sweet balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 20 wooden skewers or cocktail picks, about 4-inch length
Instructions
- Prepare the balsamic glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons honey. Stir frequently and simmer until thickened to a syrupy consistency, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- Wash and dry produce: Rinse cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cold water. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels or use a salad spinner.
- Drain mozzarella: Place mozzarella balls in a colander and let drain for a few minutes. Pat dry gently to remove excess liquid.
- Assemble the skewers: Thread one cherry tomato, followed by a fresh basil leaf (folded if large), then a mozzarella ball onto each wooden skewer or cocktail pick. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Arrange on platter: Lay the assembled skewers flat on a serving plate in neat rows or a circular pattern.
- Drizzle and season: Lightly drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the skewers, then spoon the cooled balsamic glaze evenly on top. Finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Serve immediately or chill: Best enjoyed fresh but can be made up to 2 hours in advance and kept chilled. Add glaze just before serving if prepping early.
Notes
Dry all ingredients thoroughly before assembly to ensure the glaze sticks well. Simmer balsamic glaze on low heat and stir frequently to avoid burning. Add glaze just before serving if making skewers ahead to prevent sogginess. Fresh mozzarella balls are preferred for texture and presentation. Vegan cheese alternatives can be used for a vegan version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 4 skewers
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 6
Keywords: Caprese skewers, appetizer, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, balsamic glaze, easy recipe, party food, vegetarian, gluten-free