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Easy Mini Caprese Skewers Recipe with Sweet Balsamic Reduction Perfect for Parties

mini Caprese skewers - featured image

These easy mini Caprese skewers combine fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil on bite-sized skewers, drizzled with a sweet balsamic reduction. Perfect for quick appetizers or party snacks, they are simple, fresh, and crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint (250g) cherry tomatoes, preferably ripe and firm
  • 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained
  • About 20 medium fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
  • 2025 wooden skewers or toothpicks
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup (120ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pour ½ cup (120ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 2 tablespoons sugar and stir gently. Bring to a low boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer.
  2. Let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a syrupy consistency, about 10-15 minutes. The reduction should coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
  3. Rinse cherry tomatoes and basil leaves; pat dry thoroughly. Drain mozzarella balls well on paper towels.
  4. On each wooden skewer, thread one cherry tomato, a folded basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
  5. Lightly drizzle olive oil over the skewers and sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the skewers using a spoon or squeeze bottle.
  7. Let the skewers sit for 5 minutes to absorb flavors before serving.

Notes

Pat ingredients dry to avoid soggy skewers. Simmer balsamic reduction slowly to prevent burning. Assemble skewers before glazing to avoid slipperiness. Balsamic reduction can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated. For dairy-free, substitute mozzarella with firm tofu or vegan mozzarella.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, mini Caprese, balsamic reduction, party appetizer, easy snack, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil