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Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe Easy Homemade with Sweet Balsamic Glaze

fresh caprese skewers - featured image

Fresh Caprese skewers with a sweet balsamic glaze are a quick, easy, and refreshing appetizer perfect for summer gatherings. This recipe combines ripe cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves drizzled with a homemade balsamic reduction.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 ripe cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
  • 20 large fresh basil leaves
  • Wooden or bamboo skewers (6-inch length), soaked in water for 10 minutes if grilling
  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar (240 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
  • Pinch of salt (optional)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper (optional garnish)
  • Flaky sea salt (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 2 tablespoons of packed brown sugar and a pinch of salt if using. Stir gently to combine. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  2. Let the mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens to a syrupy consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Avoid boiling vigorously to prevent bitterness. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Rinse the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry with a paper towel.
  4. On each skewer, thread one cherry tomato, one basil leaf (folded if large), and one mozzarella ball. Repeat until all ingredients are used (about 20 skewers).
  5. Lay the assembled skewers on a serving platter. Using a spoon or tongs, drizzle the sweet balsamic glaze generously over the skewers.
  6. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Use room temperature ingredients for best flavor. The glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Drizzle glaze just before serving to keep basil fresh. Warm glaze slightly if it thickens too much after cooling.

Nutrition

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