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Easy Caprese Skewers Recipe with Sweet Balsamic Hearts Perfect for Parties

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These Easy Caprese Skewers combine juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves drizzled with a sweet balsamic reduction shaped into hearts, making a quick, colorful, and crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint (300g) cherry tomatoes, washed and dried
  • 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained and patted dry
  • 1 small bunch fresh basil leaves, washed and gently dried
  • ½ cup (120ml) balsamic vinegar for reduction
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for caramelization)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 20–25 wooden skewers or toothpicks, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Balsamic Reduction: Pour ½ cup (120ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar if using. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened to a syrupy consistency (about 8-10 minutes). Watch closely to avoid burning.
  2. Form the Sweet Balsamic Hearts: Once the reduction cools slightly but is still fluid, transfer it to a small squeeze bottle or use a teaspoon. On a non-stick surface or parchment paper, carefully squeeze out tiny heart shapes. Let set for a few minutes until slightly tacky but not fully hardened.
  3. Prep the Ingredients: Rinse and dry cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. Drain fresh mozzarella and pat dry with paper towels. Halve larger cherry tomatoes if desired.
  4. Assemble the Skewers: Thread one cherry tomato, followed by a basil leaf (folded if large), then a mozzarella ball onto each skewer. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
  5. Season and Dress: Arrange skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Add the Sweet Balsamic Hearts: Using a small spoon or squeeze bottle, place a balsamic heart on each skewer or around the platter for decoration.
  7. Serve Immediately or Chill: Best served fresh but can be refrigerated up to 2 hours. Remove from fridge about 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use fresh mozzarella that is well-drained to avoid soggy skewers. Forming balsamic hearts can be tricky; use a squeeze bottle or a plastic bag with a snipped corner for better control. Add olive oil and balsamic hearts just before serving if preparing ahead. Skewers are best served at room temperature for optimal flavor and appearance.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic hearts, easy appetizer, party food, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, balsamic reduction

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/easy-caprese-skewers-recipe-with-sweet-balsamic-hearts-perfect-for-parties/