Can I make the balsamic glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, I recommend it. The balsamic glaze can be made several days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It actually thickens up quite nicely as it cools, giving it an even better consistency. It's like a little flavor time capsule!

What if I can't find small mozzarella balls?

No problem! You can use a larger mozzarella ball and cut it into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Just make sure they're roughly the same size as your cherry tomatoes for a balanced skewer. Or, if you're feeling fancy, use mozzarella pearls!

Can I add other ingredients to these skewers?

Of course! Get creative! Some tasty additions include sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or even a small piece of prosciutto wrapped around the mozzarella. Just be mindful of balancing the flavors and not overcrowding the skewer.

How long will the Caprese skewers last in the refrigerator?

While they're best served immediately, you can store assembled skewers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, the basil might wilt and the mozzarella can get a bit firm. I'd recommend drizzling the glaze just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While dried basil will add flavor, it won't provide the same vibrant freshness as fresh basil. If you absolutely must use dried basil, sprinkle a tiny pinch onto the skewer along with the other ingredients, but fresh basil is the way to go for true Caprese flavor!

close up of caprese skewers drizzled with balsamic glaze

Summer lunches

Name: Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Summer-Lunch-Ideas
Ingredients: 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes; 8 oz Small Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini); 1/2 cup Fresh Basil Leaves; 1 cup Balsamic Vinegar; 2 tbsp Brown Sugar or Honey; to taste Sea Salt; to taste Black Pepper

caprese skewers with balsamic glaze

By:

GuideMyRecipe

Published:

25 Oct 2025

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Picture this: a warm summer evening, friends gathered around, and a platter of these beautiful Caprese skewers making their rounds. The burst of sweet cherry tomatoes, the creamy mozzarella, the fragrant basil, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze – it’s a taste of Italy right in your hands. I remember the first time I made these for a picnic; they were gone in minutes! I even saw someone try to lick the plate clean of the balsamic – that's when I knew I had a hit on my hands. Honestly, it's so simple, its almost funny. But that's the magic of Caprese.

What sets these skewers apart is the quality of the ingredients. Seek out the freshest basil you can find (farmers markets are your friend!). I had one mishap at a summer dinner party because I used old basil. It was tragic; the host asked me to leave! The mozzarella should be soft and milky, the cherry tomatoes ripe and juicy. And that balsamic glaze? It’s the jewel in the crown, bringing a depth of flavor that elevates the entire experience. Don't skimp on it. You can make it your self, or buy some pre-made.

Required Equipments

Small Saucepan
Wooden Skewers
Serving Platter
Spoon
Paper Towels

Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze: Frequently Asked Questions

Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

These Caprese skewers with balsamic glaze are a symphony of fresh flavors and vibrant colors, perfect as an appetizer or a light snack. Requiring minimal effort and ingredients, they're an effortless way to impress.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 6 servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

📖 Instructions

Prepare the Balsamic Glaze (if making from scratch): In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of balsamic vinegar with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar or honey. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vinegar has reduced to about half its original volume and has a syrupy consistency. Be careful not to burn it! It should coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let it cool; it will thicken as it cools.
Wash and Prep: Gently wash the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
Assemble the Skewers: Take a wooden or metal skewer. Begin by threading a cherry tomato onto the skewer, followed by a small mozzarella ball (bocconcini). Next, fold a fresh basil leaf in half and thread it onto the skewer. Repeat this sequence – tomato, mozzarella, basil – until the skewer is almost full, leaving a small space at the end for handling. I find that using my thumb to push the skewer through each item helps. Be careful, though! I've stabbed myself more than once...
Arrange on a Platter: Once all the skewers are assembled, arrange them neatly on a serving platter. I like to use a white platter to make the colors pop, but any will work
Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Using a spoon or a squeeze bottle, drizzle the balsamic glaze generously over the Caprese skewers. Make sure each skewer gets a nice coating of the glaze.
Season (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, you can sprinkle a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the skewers. I'm not a pepper fan, though. So I often leave it out. Plus, I don't like the way it looks.
Serve Immediately: These Caprese skewers are best served immediately, so the mozzarella remains soft and the basil is fresh. If you need to prepare them in advance, assemble the skewers but wait to drizzle with the balsamic glaze until just before serving to prevent the basil from wilting.
Optional Garnish: For a more decorative presentation, you can garnish the platter with extra fresh basil leaves or a light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
Aerate: Open a window for fresh air while serving.