Easy Caprese Crostini with Balsamic Glaze
Caprese Crostini with Balsamic Glaze is an easy and delicious appetizer. The crunch of the crostini bread pairs perfectly with the juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese.
This easy to make, hand-held appetizer is great for any occasion!
Whether you’re hosting or making a simple dinner at home, these Caprese Crostinis are the perfect addition.
The acidic tomatoes flawlessly contrast the creamy mozzarella and fresh basil.
Also, the addition of the balsamic glaze on top brings it all together with just the right amount of sweetness.
What is Caprese?
Caprese is typically made in salad form, consisting of fresh sliced mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
Also, it is traditionally served as an appetizer and named after the island of Capri where it is believed to have originated.
The colors of the ingredients (red, white, and green) are said to represent the Italian flag.S
Process for Making Caprese Crostini
The full-detailed instructions are written out in the recipe card below. Use these images to help guide you as needed when following the directions.
Frequently Asked Questions
For crostinis, you want a bread that will get nice and crispy while still being able to hold its shape and toppings. Specifically, a baguette or ciabatta loaf are ideal options.
The bread should be toasted to a golden brown throughout and a little darker on the edges. You will want to keep an eye on the bread as you don’t want it to burn.
Crostini and bruschetta are both Italian appetizers featuring toasted bread. However, they differ in the type of bread used and preparation methods.
Bruschetta typically uses larger slices of bread, often sourdough, grilled and rubbed with garlic. Crostini, on the other hand, uses smaller, thinner slices, often from a baguette or ciabatta loaf that is toasted.
While both are topped with various ingredients, bruschetta is traditionally topped with tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, while crostini can have a wider range of toppings, including spreads, cheeses, and even meats.
Yes! You can use your preferred tomato for this crostini recipe. Just make sure to dice the pieces small enough to fit on the crostini.
To store the Caprese Crostini, keep the toppings and the toasted bread separately in airtight containers. You will want to store the toppings in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. However, the bread can be stored for 3-4 days at room temperature.
Caprese Crostini with Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients
- 10 oz Ciabatta Loaf, sliced
- 12 oz Fresh Mozzarella , diced
- 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes, diced
- Balsamic Glaze, for topping
- Fresh Basil, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F
- If needed, cut the loaf into about 1/2 inch thick slices
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil
- Place the crostini slices on the foil
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste
- Bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes until golden on the bottom
- Flip and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the other side is golden
- Keep an eye on it and remove from the oven when ready
- Set aside and prepare the other ingredients
- Dice the tomatoes and fresh mozzarella
- Once the crostinis have cooled, add the tomato and mozzarella on top
- Top with the balsamic glaze and fresh basil
- Serve and enjoy!