Easy Bite-Sized Caprese Skewers Recipe for Perfect Party Appetizers
These Easy Bite-Sized Caprese Skewers are a quick, fresh, and crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for parties and casual gatherings, they are simple to make and delicious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20-25 skewers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pint (450g) cherry tomatoes, preferably ripe and firm
- 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella balls (Bocconcini or Ciliegine), drained
- 1 small bunch (about 20–25 leaves) fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
- 1/4 cup (60ml) balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 20–25 wooden skewers or toothpicks
Instructions
- Rinse the cherry tomatoes and pat dry. Drain the mozzarella balls well to avoid soggy skewers. Wash the basil leaves and gently dry them using paper towels or a salad spinner.
- If making homemade balsamic glaze: Pour 1/2 cup (120ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan with 1 tablespoon (12g) brown sugar. Simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces by half and thickens into a syrupy glaze. Let it cool completely before using.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes and mozzarella balls. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat without breaking the cheese.
- Take a wooden skewer or toothpick and thread one cherry tomato, followed by a folded basil leaf, then a mozzarella ball, and finish with another tomato if desired. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Arrange the assembled skewers on your serving platter. Drizzle the balsamic glaze evenly over the skewers.
- Add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of flaky sea salt if desired. Serve immediately or chill for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
If making balsamic glaze at home, simmer vinegar and sugar slowly until thickened but still pourable. Drain mozzarella thoroughly to avoid soggy skewers. Assemble skewers just before serving to keep basil fresh. For a dairy-free option, substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese balls or marinated tofu cubes. Optional additions include sun-dried tomatoes, green olives, or a drizzle of pesto.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 5060
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 70
- Fat: 3
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 3
Keywords: Caprese skewers, bite-sized appetizer, party appetizers, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, balsamic glaze, easy appetizer, Italian appetizer