The first time I made Holiday Caprese Skewers, it was Christmas Eve and I was scrambling for a last-minute appetizer that wouldn’t leave me stuck in the kitchen while everyone else was sipping eggnog. I’ll never forget how those plump cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and bright basil leaves came together like magic on those little skewers. When I drizzled them with balsamic glaze, the red, white, and green colors looked like edible Christmas ornaments! My aunt actually gasped when I brought them out – who knew something so simple could steal the show? Now they’re my go-to whenever I need a festive appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is beautiful.
Why You’ll Love These Holiday Caprese Skewers
Let me tell you why these little skewers became my holiday party superheroes! First off, they’re ridiculously quick to throw together – we’re talking 15 minutes if you cheat with store-bought balsamic glaze (I won’t tell). But the real magic? They look like you fussed for hours with those vibrant red tomatoes, snowy mozzarella pearls, and emerald basil leaves. They’re basically Christmas on a toothpick!
Here’s why you’ll adore them as much as I do:
- Party-perfect: These Holiday Caprese Skewers disappear faster than wrapping paper on Christmas morning at any gathering. I always make double batches!
- Healthy yet indulgent: You get that creamy mozzarella satisfaction without the guilt – perfect for balancing out all those holiday cookies.
- Visual wow factor: Arrange them on a platter with my herb and cheese stuffed mushrooms for a stunning appetizer spread.
- No cooking required: Just assemble and dazzle – my kind of holiday recipe!
Trust me, once you see how easy they are and how much people rave about them, you’ll be making these every December. They’re the appetizer equivalent of your favorite ugly Christmas sweater – festive, fun, and always a hit!
Ingredients for Holiday Caprese Skewers
Gathering the right ingredients is what makes these Holiday Caprese Skewers shine! Here’s everything you’ll need to create this festive appetizer:
- For the balsamic glaze: 1 1/2 cups balsamic vinegar (the good stuff!) + 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- The star players: 12 ounces grape or cherry tomatoes (look for the plumpest ones) + 10 ounces cherry-sized bocconcini mozzarella balls (drained)
- Flavor boosters: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil + 3-4 teaspoons dried Italian herbs (I use a mix of oregano, thyme, and rosemary)
- Fresh touches: A generous handful of fresh basil leaves (shredded right before using) + flaked sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Pro tip: If you’re short on time, you can absolutely use store-bought balsamic glaze – I won’t judge! But if you’ve got 15 minutes to spare, homemade glaze makes all the difference with its rich, caramelized depth.
How to Make Holiday Caprese Skewers
Okay, let’s get to the fun part – assembling these gorgeous Holiday Caprese Skewers! I promise it’s easier than untangling Christmas lights. First, we’ll whip up that luscious balsamic glaze (or cheat with store-bought – your secret’s safe with me). Then comes the satisfying assembly line of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Ready?
Making the balsamic glaze:
- Grab a small saucepan and combine your balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Heat it over low for about 5 minutes, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. This is when my kitchen starts smelling like a fancy Italian restaurant!
- Turn up the heat to medium and let it come to a gentle boil. Then reduce to a simmer for 8-10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon – think warm honey consistency. Pro tip: Don’t walk away during this part! Burnt balsamic is not the holiday aroma we’re going for.
Assembling the skewers:
- While your glaze cools slightly, wash and thoroughly dry your tomatoes. Watery tomatoes = sad, soggy skewers.
- Drain those adorable mozzarella balls and pat them dry too. I like to arrange everything in little assembly-line bowls – it makes me feel like a culinary Santa’s elf!
- Thread one tomato, one mozzarella ball, and a small folded basil leaf onto each toothpick or small skewer. Alternate them however you like – I sometimes do two tomatoes for extra color.
The finishing touches:
- Arrange your skewers on a pretty platter (this is where they start looking like edible decorations).
- Drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with your Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Be generous with the basil – those green flecks make them look so festive!
- Pour your slightly cooled balsamic glaze into a small bowl and place it in the center for dipping, or drizzle it artistically over the top if you’re feeling fancy.
And voilĂ ! You’ve just created the easiest, most impressive holiday appetizer. Pair these with my baked brie with cranberry sauce for the ultimate festive spread.
Tips for Perfect Holiday Caprese Skewers
Here are my foolproof tricks: 1) Chill the assembled skewers for 15 minutes before serving – the flavors meld beautifully. 2) If using wooden skewers, soak them in water first to prevent burning mouths (not festive!). 3) Add the basil last-minute to keep it vibrant green. That’s it – you’re now a Caprese skewer pro!
Serving Suggestions for Holiday Caprese Skewers
Oh, the fun part – showing off these Holiday Caprese Skewers! I love arranging them in a circular pattern on a big white platter – it makes them look like a festive wreath. For extra holiday magic, tuck in some rosemary sprigs around the edges. They pair perfectly with other easy appetizers like stuffed dates or a cheese board. And don’t even get me started on drinks – try them with my pink coconut mojito for the ultimate holiday flavor combo!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Here’s my little secret for stress-free holiday hosting: you can prep these skewers up to 4 hours ahead! Just assemble them without the basil and glaze, then pop them in an airtight container in the fridge. Add the fresh basil and drizzle with glaze right before serving – that way everything stays vibrant and delicious. Any leftovers? They’ll keep for about a day, though the tomatoes might get a bit softer. Honestly, in my house, there are never leftovers!
Nutritional Information
Just a quick note – these nutritional estimates are based on standard ingredients, but your exact numbers might vary depending on brands and how generous you are with that delicious balsamic glaze! As with all good things, enjoy these Holiday Caprese Skewers in moderation (though good luck stopping at just one!).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular mozzarella instead of bocconcini?
Absolutely! Just cut fresh mozzarella into bite-sized cubes. The little balls are cute, but honestly, any good-quality mozzarella works. I’ve even used those pre-sliced logs in a pinch – just stack and skewer with the tomatoes. The key is patting it dry so your Holiday Caprese Skewers don’t get watery.
How long do these Christmas appetizers last?
They’re best served within 4 hours of assembling, but if you must prep ahead, keep components separate in the fridge. The tomatoes can weep a bit, and the basil wilts – not the festive look we want! Store any leftovers (ha!) in an airtight container for up to a day, though the texture won’t be as perfect.
Can I make these holiday party appetizers vegan?
You bet! Swap the mozzarella for vegan cheese pearls or marinated tofu cubes. I’ve had great results with almond-based “mozzarella” – just check that it holds its shape when skewered. The balsamic glaze is naturally vegan, so you’re golden there. Same festive colors, same holiday cheer!
What other Christmas finger foods pair well with these?
Oh, they’re fabulous with other easy Christmas party food! Try them alongside mini quiches, stuffed mushrooms, or even a festive cheese board. The fresh flavors balance richer holiday appetizers beautifully. For drinks? Sparkling wine or a cranberry spritzer makes everything feel extra celebratory.
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Holiday Caprese Skewers
- Total Time: 25 min
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive and easy appetizer with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and balsamic glaze.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 12 ounces grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes
- 10 ounces cherry-sized bocconcini mozzarella balls
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3–4 teaspoons dried Italian herbs
- 1 handful fresh basil leaves, shredded
- 1 pinch flaked sea salt
- 1 pinch ground pepper
Instructions
- Combine vinegar and sugar in a saucepan. Cook over low heat for 4-5 minutes until sugar dissolves.
- Increase heat to medium and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes until thickened.
- Wash and dry tomatoes. Arrange them on a serving plate.
- Drain mozzarella balls and place between tomatoes.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Toss tomatoes and mozzarella gently.
- Garnish with shredded basil.
- Serve with balsamic glaze in the center and toothpicks for skewering.
Notes
- Use store-bought balsamic glaze to save time.
- Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 15 min
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Holiday Caprese Skewers, Christmas appetizers, easy party food, festive snacks