Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Reduction: Easy Fall Appetizer Favorite

Ciao! I’m Sam, a Tuscan-born chef now living in the U.S., and this is GoldenGlutenFree.com where Italian tradition meets gluten-free creativity. I didn’t grow up gluten-free. In fact, my earliest memories are of drizzling aged balsamic over thick slices of mozzarella and tomatoes from my Nonna’s garden. But years of fatigue and brain fog led me to uncover gluten intolerance. That revelation reshaped not just my health, but how I cook.

Today, I love sharing gluten-free recipes that bring joy without compromise just like these Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Reduction. Whether it’s a crisp fall afternoon gathering or a casual weeknight treat, this appetizer is fresh, vibrant, and deeply comforting. Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil skewered and topped with a sticky-sweet balsamic drizzle are a reader favorite for good reason.

This post will walk you through every step to make these skewers a breeze. You’ll get ingredient tips, foolproof instructions, fun variations, and smart storage advice. Ready to bring a little rustic Italian charm to your table?

Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Reduction on white plate

Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Reduction

sam
Fresh, vibrant, and rustic these Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Reduction bring together juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil with a sticky-sweet balsamic drizzle. A no-fuss gluten-free appetizer that’s festive, flavorful, and deeply comforting.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Italian
Servings 12 skewers
Calories 78 kcal

Equipment

  • small saucepan
  • measuring cups
  • skewers or toothpicks
  • cutting board
  • serving platter

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar (high-quality)
  • 12 cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 12 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
  • 12 fresh basil leaves
  • 12 toothpicks or small skewers
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces by half and becomes syrupy. Let cool.
  • On each skewer, thread one tomato, one folded basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball. Repeat if skewers are large enough.
  • Arrange skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with olive oil (if using), season with salt and freshly cracked pepper, and finish with the cooled balsamic reduction just before serving.

Notes

Assemble up to 6 hours ahead, but drizzle the reduction just before serving. Balsamic reduction can be made a week in advance. Try variations like swapping tomatoes for strawberries, using dairy-free mozzarella, or serving over gluten-free crackers.

Nutrition

Calories: 78kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 4gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 2.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.1gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 110mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 450IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 90mgIron: 0.3mg
Keyword balsamic reduction, caprese skewers, fresh mozzarella, gluten free appetizer, holiday appetizer
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Reduction

Freshness is key here. When every component is simple, quality shines.

You’ll need:

  • Cherry or grape tomatoes (organic if possible)
  • Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size)
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Balsamic vinegar (high-quality)
  • Toothpicks or small skewers
  • Salt and freshly cracked pepper
  • Olive oil (optional)

If you’re already planning a Mediterranean night, you might love pairing these with something heartier like Greek chicken bowls with brown rice or a lighter option such as zucchini noodles with tomatoes.

Ingredients for Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Reduction

How to Make Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Reduction Stepby Step

This appetizer comes together in under 20 minutes.

Step 1: Make the Balsamic Reduction
Pour 1 cup of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook until it reduces by half (about 10–12 minutes) and becomes syrupy. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.

Step 2: Assemble the Skewers
On each skewer, layer one tomato, one folded basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball. Repeat the pattern depending on skewer size.

Step 3: Season and Drizzle
Arrange skewers on a platter. Lightly sprinkle with salt and pepper. Drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the top right before serving.

These pair beautifully with fall-themed small bites like butternut squash soup shooters or cucumber cups with herbed cream cheese.

Tips for Success: From a Chef Who’s Made These Dozens of Times

  • Choose tomatoes at room temperature for better flavor and easier skewering.
  • Don’t over-reduce the balsamic or it may turn bitter. You want a pourable syrup.
  • Use fresh basil, not dried. It adds both aroma and color.
  • If prepping in advance, assemble skewers up to 6 hours ahead but hold off on the drizzle until just before serving.

Want more fall-friendly bites? My cranberry goat cheese ball is a holiday table favorite.

Fun Variations to Try with These Caprese Skewers

There are so many ways to customize this classic:

1. Gluten-Free Twist with Crunch
Add a small gluten-free crouton at the base of each skewer for a textural surprise. Or serve skewers over a bed of Cranberry Goat Cheese for a more composed dish.

2. Add a Touch of Fruit
Swap out cherry tomatoes for strawberries or melon for a sweet twist surprisingly delightful and kid-approved.

3. Drizzle with Pesto Instead
Make it even richer by replacing balsamic reduction with a light drizzle of homemade gluten-free pesto.

4. Make It Dairy-Free
Substitute vegan mozzarella for a completely dairy-free version that still tastes fantastic.

If you love quick gluten-free ideas, don’t miss my 10-minute avocado toast variations, which are just as colorful and satisfying.

Caprese Skewers served with balsamic reduction on platter

How to Store and Make Ahead

  • Fridge: Store assembled skewers (without balsamic) in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Balsamic reduction: Can be made 1 week in advance. Keep in a sealed jar in the fridge and rewarm gently if too thick.
  • Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture, especially the cheese and tomatoes.

Looking for more no-fuss appetizers that hold up well? My deviled eggs with paprika and chives are another quick prep-ahead favorite.

FAQ: Your Questions About Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Reduction

1. Can I use a different vinegar if I don’t have balsamic?
While traditional balsamic vinegar offers the richest flavor, a red wine vinegar glaze can work in a pinch, but the taste will be tangier and less sweet.

2. Are these Caprese skewers gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to double-check your vinegar and any add-ons.

3. What’s the best way to serve them warm?
Caprese is traditionally served cold or room temp. But for a twist, try lightly warming the mozzarella before assembling.

4. Can I make this into a full salad?
Absolutely! Just deconstruct the skewers into a bowl, toss, and drizzle with the reduction.

Conclusion: Light, Flavorful, and Festive Every Time

Whether you’re setting the table for a cozy gathering or need a crowd-pleasing bite to bring to Friendsgiving, these Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Reduction deliver simplicity, beauty, and flavor in every bite. With just a few quality ingredients and 20 minutes of your time, you’ll create an appetizer that looks impressive, tastes even better, and makes everyone ask for the recipe. Bookmark this one you’ll come back to it every season.

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating