Name: Candy Cane Caprese Board
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Snacks
Ingredients: Mozzarella Cheese; Tomato of choice; Basil; Balsamic Reduction

Are you ready to add a touch of holiday magic to your appetizer spread? Look no further than this Candy Cane Caprese Board recipe.

A delightful and festive twist on the classic Caprese salad.

A cutting board with tomatoes, mozzarella and basil.

With the vibrant colors of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, arranged in the shape of a candy cane.

This appetizer not only tastes amazing but also serves as a stunning centerpiece for your holiday gatherings.

Follow along for a step-by-step guide to creating this eye-catching and delicious Candy Cane Caprese Board that will leave your guests in awe.

Ingredients:

Cherry Tomatoes
Choose ripe and vibrant cherry tomatoes for a burst of color. The sweetness of cherry tomatoes pairs perfectly.

Fresh Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini)
Opt for small, bite-sized mozzarella balls to make assembly easy. The mild and creamy flavor of fresh mozzarella complements the tomatoes and basil.

Fresh Basil Leaves
Select large, fresh basil leaves to add a fragrant and aromatic element to your Caprese board. The green color also enhances the festive look.

Balsamic Glaze
Drizzle balsamic glaze over the tomatoes and mozzarella to add a rich and slightly tangy flavor. This step elevates the classic Caprese combination.

Toothpicks or Skewers
These are essential for assembling the Candy Cane Caprese. Choose decorative toothpicks for an extra festive touch.

Sliced tomatoes and mozzarella on a black plate.

Directions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:

Wash the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly. Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry with a paper towel.

This ensures that your Candy Cane Caprese stays fresh and vibrant.

2. Skewer Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Basil:

Take a toothpick or skewer and carefully thread a cherry tomato, followed by a basil leaf, and then a mozzarella ball.

Repeat this process until you have a collection of Caprese skewers.

3. Assemble in the Shape of a Candy Cane:

Arrange the Caprese skewers on a serving platter in the shape of a candy cane.

Start by forming the hook at the top, then create the body of the candy cane with the skewers, gently curving them to mimic the shape.

4. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:

Generously drizzle balsamic glaze over the entire Candy Cane Caprese board.

A plate with tomatoes, mozzarella and basil on a black background.

The glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor, enhancing the taste of the tomatoes and mozzarella.

5. Add Festive Garnishes (Optional):

For an extra festive touch, consider adding additional holiday-themed garnishes.

Sprinkle pomegranate arils or edible gold leaf for a touch of elegance and a pop of color.

Sliced tomatoes and mozzarella on a wooden cutting board.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Your Candy Cane Caprese Board is ready to be served! Place it at the center of your appetizer table and watch as it becomes the focal point of your holiday spread.

Encourage your guests to grab a skewer and enjoy the perfect bite-sized Caprese experience.

Tips and Variations:

Use Heirloom Tomatoes: For an even more colorful presentation, incorporate heirloom tomatoes in various shades.

This adds visual appeal and introduces different flavors to the mix.
Experiment with Cheese Shapes: Instead of traditional mozzarella balls, try slicing regular mozzarella into rounds and using festive cookie cutters to create holiday shapes.

Stars, trees, or snowflakes can add a whimsical touch.

A plate of tomatoes, mozzarella and basil with a glass of wine.

Create a Dipping Station: Set out small bowls of extra balsamic glaze, olive oil, or flavored vinaigrettes for guests to dip their Candy Cane Caprese skewers for an extra layer of flavor.
Serve with Bread or Crackers: Accompany your Candy Cane Caprese Board with slices of crusty bread or a selection of crackers.

This allows guests to create mini Caprese bites or enjoy the components separately.
Customize with Additional Ingredients: Feel free to customize your Caprese skewers with additional ingredients like olives, prosciutto, or roasted red peppers for a more diverse flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This Candy Cane Caprese Board recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.

The vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and festive presentation make it a show-stopping addition to any holiday gathering.

Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, a family dinner, or a festive brunch, this Candy Cane Caprese Board is sure to impress your guests and add a touch of holiday cheer to the occasion.

Give it a try, and elevate your holiday entertaining with this delicious and visually stunning twist on the classic Caprese salad!