Print

Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe Easy Homemade Appetizers with Balsamic Glaze Drizzle

fresh Caprese skewers - featured image

Fresh Caprese skewers with balsamic glaze drizzle are a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all enhanced by a tangy-sweet homemade balsamic glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint (about 300 g) cherry tomatoes
  • 8 ounces (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
  • About 20 fresh basil leaves
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup (240 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 g) honey or brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 6-inch wooden skewers

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic glaze: Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 2 tablespoons (30 g) of honey or brown sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally, letting it reduce until thickened and syrupy, about 10-15 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  2. Toss the tomatoes: In a medium bowl, add 1 pint (about 300 g) of cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and a few cracks of black pepper. Mix gently to coat evenly.
  3. Prep the basil and mozzarella: Rinse and pat dry about 20 fresh basil leaves. Drain 8 ounces (225 g) of mozzarella balls. If larger, cut them in half for bite-sized pieces.
  4. Assemble the skewers: Thread one cherry tomato, one mozzarella ball, and one basil leaf onto each 6-inch wooden skewer. Repeat to fill all skewers, usually making about 15-20 skewers depending on size.
  5. Plate and drizzle: Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers and add a light sprinkle of salt if desired. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Notes

If making ahead, assemble skewers without the glaze and refrigerate. Add glaze just before serving to keep basil fresh and prevent sogginess. Soak wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes if grilling to prevent burning. Homemade balsamic glaze is preferred over store-bought for richer flavor. Avoid overripe tomatoes for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, appetizer, balsamic glaze, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, easy recipe, summer snack