Can I make the Candy Cane Caprese Board ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep most components earlier in the day. Slice the mozzarella and tomatoes and store them separately. Assemble the board up to 2 hours ahead and finish with oil and salt just before serving.

What’s the best substitute for balsamic glaze?

You can make your own by simmering 1 cup of balsamic vinegar over medium-low heat until it reduces to about ¼–⅓ cup and coats the back of a spoon.

How long do leftovers last?

This appetizer is best the day it’s made, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.

Can I scale the Candy Cane Caprese Board for a larger party?

Absolutely. Just double the ingredients and use a larger board—or prepare two side-by-side.

What kind of tomatoes work best?

Choose firm, ripe tomatoes like Roma or beefsteak that hold their shape when sliced and don’t release too much moisture.

Candy Cane Caprese Board for a Fresh Holiday Appetizer

Candy Cane Caprese Board

Print Recipe

A festive appetizer made by layering slices of fresh mozzarella and tomato into a candy cane shape, garnished with basil, olive oil, balsamic glaze, and served with toasted baguette slices. It’s a refreshing, no-cook holiday dish perfect for entertaining guests.

Author: Benchi
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

16 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese log, sliced 1/4-inch thick into 13 slices
3 large tomatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick into 12 slices
9 whole fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
2 tablespoons olive oil
Sea salt, to taste
1 large baguette, sliced and toasted

Instructions

Slice the mozzarella cheese into 13 rounds and the tomatoes into 12 rounds, each 1/4-inch thick.
On a 20×13-inch board or platter, start at the top end and alternate layering a slice of mozzarella with a slice of tomato in the shape of a candy cane.
Arrange fresh basil leaves around the board as garnish.
Place a small bowl of balsamic glaze on the board.
Just before serving, drizzle the mozzarella and tomatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
Serve with additional olive oil, sea salt, and toasted baguette slices on the side.

Notes

Balsamic glaze can be homemade by reducing 1 cup of balsamic vinegar to 1/4–1/3 cup over medium-low heat.
Use a rimmed board or platter to help contain ingredients and maintain shape.
Prep mozzarella and tomato slices up to 8 hours ahead and store separately.

Find it online: https://www.cookwithbenchi.com/candy-cane-caprese-board/