Easy Star-Shaped Caprese Skewers Recipe with Homemade Balsamic Glaze
A fresh and fun appetizer featuring star-shaped mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, finished with a tangy homemade balsamic glaze. Perfect for entertaining or a light snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 skewers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (about 300 grams)
- 20 fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (120 ml)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- About 20 wooden skewers or toothpicks
- Small star-shaped cookie cutter (1 to 1.5 inches)
Instructions
- Prepare the balsamic glaze: Pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup if using. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened to a syrupy consistency, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Shape the mozzarella: Drain and pat dry mozzarella balls. Place each ball on a cutting board and press the star-shaped cookie cutter gently to cut out stars. Dip cutter in warm water between cuts if needed.
- Prepare the tomatoes: Wash and pat dry cherry tomatoes. Slice in half if desired for smaller bites or leave whole.
- Assemble the skewers: Thread one star-shaped mozzarella piece onto a skewer, followed by a fresh basil leaf (folded if large), then a cherry tomato half or whole tomato. Repeat until all ingredients are used, about 20 skewers. Arrange on a serving platter.
- Finish with olive oil and seasoning: Drizzle skewers lightly with 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze: Evenly drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over the skewers just before serving.
- Serve immediately to keep basil crisp and mozzarella firm.
Notes
Pat mozzarella dry before cutting to prevent sticking. Dip cookie cutter in warm water between cuts. Monitor balsamic glaze closely to avoid burning. Assemble skewers without glaze up to 4 hours ahead and add glaze before serving. Use firm tofu for a dairy-free alternative. Grilling skewers briefly adds smoky flavor but be gentle to avoid melting cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 5
Keywords: Caprese skewers, star-shaped mozzarella, balsamic glaze, appetizer, easy recipe, fresh basil, cherry tomatoes, party snacks