This easy Candy Cane Caprese appetizer is the perfect 10 minute, no-cook holiday recipe loaded with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil—arranged into a festive candy cane shape!
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This Christmas Caprese salad adds a bright, colorful touch to your holiday table and pairs perfectly with balsamic glaze. Simple, fresh, and perfect for entertaining.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Fresh, Simple Ingredients: Sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and basil make this feel light but still full of flavor.
- Festive Presentation: The candy cane shape instantly makes your holiday table feel special!
- Quick and Easy: Ready in 10 minutes with zero cooking, which is exactly what I need when the oven’s already packed.
- Customizable: Drizzle with balsamic glaze, add prosciutto, or sprinkle with flaky salt—there’s plenty of ways to make it your own.
Candy Cane Caprese Ingredients
- Tomato: Try to find evenly-sized tomatoes to match the diameter of the pre-packaged sliced cheese.
- Mozzarella Cheese: I love the BelGioioso brand!
- Basil: Fresh basil is the best option for this dish.
- Balsamic glaze: See FAQ below if you have trouble finding balsamic glaze and already have balsamic vinegar on hand.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Substitutions & Variations
Mozzarella: Swap for sliced burrata (for a creamy center).
Tomatoes: Use heirloom tomato slices for a summer treat.
Balsamic Glaze: Replace with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a more classic Caprese flavor.
Add Prosciutto: Layer thin slices of prosciutto between the tomato and mozzarella.
Pesto Drizzle: Swap or add to the balsamic glaze with a drizzle of basil pesto for extra herb flavor.
How To Make Candy Cane Caprese
STEP ONE: Slice the Tomatoes
Wash the tomatoes and slice them evenly for clean, uniform layers.
STEP TWO: Arrange the Candy Cane Shape
On a large platter, layer the tomato slices, fresh basil leaves, and sliced mozzarella, alternating as you go to create a candy cane shape.
STEP THREE: Finish with Balsamic and Seasoning
Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.
Expert Tips for Success
👩🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and meal prep hacks!
✔️ DO Use ripe firm tomatoes.
✔️ DO Slice mozzarella evenly.
✔️ DO Drizzle balsamic glaze just before serving.
❌ DO NOT Skip drying the tomatoes. Excess moisture can ruin the presentation.
❌ DO NOT Add basil too early since it can wilt fast.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1-2 days. The tomatoes will release some juices, so we like to place a paper towel underneath to help absorb the moisture.
Recipe FAQs
Fresh mozzarella logs or pre-sliced mozzarella is ideal for a Caprese appetizer. They provide uniform slices that layer neatly, making it easier to achieve the classic candy cane shape.
Using firmer tomato varieties to help reduce excess moisture. Slicing tomatoes just before assembly and gently patting them dry with a paper towel prevents the salad from becoming watery.
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📖 Recipe
Candy Cane Caprese
Equipment
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 ripe firm tomatoes
- 1 package fresh sliced mozzarella
- fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- ¼ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the tomatoes under cool water and pat dry. Using a sharp knife, slice the tomatoes into even rounds for consistent layering.
- On a large serving platter, alternate layers of tomato slices, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella slices. Arrange them into a curved candy cane shape, slightly overlapping each piece for a festive look.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze evenly over the top. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
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Notes
- Mozzarella: Swap for sliced burrata (for a creamy center).
- Tomatoes: Use heirloom tomato slices for a summer treat.
- Balsamic Glaze: Replace with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a more classic Caprese flavor.
Stacy says
This is a great idea for holidays!
Jami Powell says
And also delicious. Thank you for the comment! 😊