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Creamy Caprese Dip is beautifully displayed as the featured image for a delicious appetizer recipe.
Lady Maria

Best Ever Caprese Dip

This Caprese Dip captures the essence of summer in a creamy, cheesy appetizer. Bursting with the flavors of tomatoes, fresh basil, and balsamic glaze, it's easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for parties or a simple summer snack!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls bocconcini or ciliegine
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup optional
  • Baguette slices, toasted or plain, for serving
  • Crackers, for serving
  • Vegetable sticks, for serving

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • small bowl
  • Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
  • Serving dish (shallow bowl or platter)
  • Small saucepan
  • whisk
  • Plastic wrap
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. Use an electric mixer to beat the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. In a separate bowl, gently combine the halved grape or cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped fresh basil.
  4. Spread the creamy base evenly in a serving dish.
  5. Carefully spoon the Caprese mixture over the cream cheese base, distributing evenly.
  6. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey (if using).
  7. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until reduced and thickened into a syrupy consistency.
  8. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  9. Drizzle the balsamic glaze generously over the Caprese dip.
  10. Cover the dip with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  11. Before serving, let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Serve with baguette slices, crackers, or vegetable sticks.

Notes

For a kick, add red pepper flakes to the Caprese mixture. You can assemble the dip up to 24 hours in advance, but wait to add the glaze. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended. Variations include adding pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, avocado, or roasted red peppers. Use good quality fresh mozzarella for the best flavor.