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The Gist
| SERVES | COOK TIME | TOTAL TIME | DIET NOTES | SKILL LEVEL |
| 25 | 0 | 15 | Vegetarian, Gluten-Free | Easy |
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick, no-cook appetizer for brunches or showers
- Fresh, vibrant flavors with minimal ingredients
- A fun, modern update to classic Caprese skewers
- White balsamic glaze adds tang without darkening the presentation
I made these Blackberry Caprese Skewers for my nephew's wedding shower brunch this past April. I had a table full of classic fare-mini Quiche Lorraine, finger sandwiches with my favorite Pimento Cheese, the usual suspects-but these skewers vanished fast.
To be honest, they might've dethroned the traditional Caprese for me (and I say that as someone who will always defend a ripe garden tomato like it's family). The sweet-tart blackberries held their own against the creamy mozzarella, and the white balsamic glaze? Worth every drop. I used it not just for flavor but to keep the skewers looking sharp-no dark streaks, just clean, bright bites.
Where This Recipe Comes From
This isn't an old family heirloom recipe-just something I came up with while trying to add color and a little seasonal flair to a springtime spread. Caprese skewers are nothing new, but this blackberry version turns the familiar into something fresh, juicy, and just a little unexpected.
Kitchen Tools
Bamboo Skewers (3-inch) - Cocktail length keeps them tidy on a tray
Cutting Board - For prepping cucumber chunks and folding basil leaves
Serving Tray - A flat platter or board works well for displaying
Small Squeeze Bottle or Spoon - For drizzling the glaze neatly
Ingredients
Mini Fresh Mozzarella Balls - Creamy and mild; the perfect size for skewering
Blackberries - Juicy and slightly tart for contrast
Fresh Basil Leaves - Choose medium leaves that can fold without tearing
Cucumber Chunks (Optional) - Adds crunch and freshness
Alessi White Balsamic Reduction - Tangy, sweet, and doesn't stain like dark balsamic
3-inch Bamboo Skewers - Short and ideal for bite-sized servings
Let's Get to Cookin'
Assemble the Skewers
• Start with a clean work surface and lay out 25 bamboo skewers.
• On each skewer, layer one mozzarella ball, followed by a folded basil leaf.
• Add a blackberry, then a cucumber chunk if using. Press gently so the ingredients stay in place.
Chill and Serve
• Line a tray with the finished skewers.
• Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
• Just before serving, drizzle lightly with white balsamic reduction. A little goes a long way.
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Pro Tips from My Kitchen
Use firm blackberries - They hold their shape better and won't leak juice.
Don't skip the glaze - It ties the flavors together and elevates the whole bite.
Make ahead-but not too far ahead - Up to 8 hours in the fridge is ideal.
Use a squeeze bottle for the glaze - Cleaner, prettier presentation.
Make It a Meal (Serving Ideas + Internal Links)
Pair these skewers with Southern Pimento Cheese, add Citrus Almond Sweet Tea to the drink table, or round out your brunch with savory Quiche Lorraine.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes-assemble up to 8 hours ahead and refrigerate. Wait to drizzle the glaze until right before serving.
Can I swap out the mozzarella?
You can use cubed fresh mozzarella if that's what you've got on hand. Just keep the pieces small.
What's the best balsamic to use?
White balsamic reduction keeps the skewers looking clean and bright, but traditional dark balsamic works too-it'll just stain the cheese a bit.
Do I have to use cucumber?
Nope-feel free to leave it out. It adds crunch but isn't essential. You'll notice on this day I didn't use cucumber either --but trust me, it's a fresh and flavorful addition.
Leftovers & Storage Tips
- Store assembled skewers (without glaze) in the fridge for up to 8 hours.
- Once glazed, serve immediately.
- Not recommended for freezing-the textures don't hold up.
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First Impressions Matter: Appetizers That Wow from the First Bite!
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Charcuterie Cups: Individual cups packed with deli meats, soft cheeses, fruit, and crackers-super portable, easy to assemble ahead of time, and irresistible at showers or game day spread.
Tomato & Mozzarella Bruschetta: Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, garlic, basil, and balsamic drizzle on toasted bread. Bright, fresh, and full of summer flavor.
Cranberry Crostini with Fig Jam, Bacon and Blue Cheese: A festive favorite with layers of tangy cranberry, savory bacon, and bold blue cheese on crispy crostini.
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Blackberry Caprese Skewers - Easy Summer Bites
Equipment
- Wooden Skewers 3-inch
Ingredients
- 25 mini fresh mozzarella balls
- 25 blackberries
- 25 fresh basil leaves
- 25 cucumber chunks optional
- Alessi White Balsamic Reduction for drizzling
Instructions
Assemble the Skewers
- Lay out 25 bamboo skewers on a clean surface or platter. • On each skewer, thread one mozzarella ball, followed by a folded basil leaf. • Add a blackberry, then a chunk of cucumber if using. Press ingredients gently so they're snug but not squished.
Chill and Serve
- Place assembled skewers on a tray or platter. • Refrigerate until ready to serve, or serve immediately. • Just before serving, drizzle with white balsamic reduction. A little goes a long way.
Notes
• Swap blackberries for raspberries or halved strawberries for a different berry note.
• Use cherry tomatoes instead of blackberries for a more traditional Caprese flavor.
• If you don't have mini mozzarella balls, cut a block of fresh mozzarella into 1-inch cubes. Serving Suggestions:
• Great for brunch spreads, summer picnics, bridal showers, or passed appetizers.
• Serve alongside a charcuterie board, or as a light bite with sparkling wine or iced tea. Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:
• Skewers can be assembled up to 8 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
• Wait to drizzle with balsamic reduction until just before serving to keep things fresh.
• Not ideal for freezing, as fresh mozzarella and berries don’t thaw well after freezing.
Nutrition
*Nutrition information is automatically calculated based on ingredient data and should be considered an estimate. When multiple ingredient options are provided, the first listed is used for calculation. Optional ingredients and garnishes are not included in the nutrition analysis.
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