Check out my recipe for making a Candy Cane Caprese Board!
We eat Caprese ALL THE TIME! So, when it came time to make festive appetizers for this time of year for Christmas, it only made sense to make Caprese…but to make it even better by making it look festive! Of course, I found myself on Pinterest…and stumbled on the candy cane Caprese idea from The Bakermama. This is my take on it.
Festive “boards” have been going crazy all over the internet this year, especially on Instagram and TikTok. One of the nice things about making “boards” is that you can 100% customize them to your liking. You can make it as simple or as complex as you want it to be. With minimal ingredients, you can make a Candy Can Caprese Board.
The Candy Cane Caprese board gets its name for obvious reasons…it’s a candy cane-shaped Caprese salad on a board. You can make it any size you want. It’s super easy to make. Actually, the hardest part is finding a board or serving platter big enough to fit the candy cane shape. I found that the biggest “board” that I have, which is totally flat, is a cutting board that is 11.5 X 19 inches. For this recipe, the bigger the board the better. The shape just does not do well with a smaller base.
I served the candy cane Caprese with a couple of different types of olives. Depending on how big your board is, you can add in many other things like a small dish of balsamic glaze, additional Olive oil for dipping, crackers, prosciutto, or nuts. I would recommend putting those extra items in a small bowl instead of straight on the board as the fresh mozzarella slices and tomatoes have a fair amount of moisture in them and you likely don’t want soggy crackers.
Tips for making Candy Cane Caprese Board
Caprese is made of fresh mozzarella, slices of fresh tomato, and fresh basil leaves. There are a lot of different variations, but those are the main ingredients that are in every Caprese.
You can use any type of tomato that you would like. However, be sure to use ripe, fresh tomatoes as one of the reasons Caprese is so great is due to the freshness of its ingredients. Depending on how much Caprese I’m making, will determine what type of tomatoes I use. If I’m just making a small amount for myself, sometimes I’ll use cherry tomatoes cut in half. If I’m making a larger amount, I choose large beefsteak tomatoes.
Balsamic glaze is just balsamic vinegar that has been reduced. When the balsamic vinegar reduces, it takes out some of the vinegar flavors and becomes sweeter and thicker in consistency. To make a balsamic glaze, simmer in a pot on the stove over medium heat for 10-15 minutes or until thickened. Be careful not to fully boil or over-reduce it as it will become gummy in texture. The ideal consistency is that of honey or thickened syrup.
To make a Candy Cane Caprese Board, you will need a large, flat board. I don’t recommend that you use a board or platter that is not flat as the juices and oils will drip and puddle on the plate and the candy cane will not keep its shape well. I found that a board that is 11.5 X 19 inches worked well. A larger board would work even better and provide more room for additional items like bread and crackers.
Fresh mozzarella is sold in different-sized balls or logs and is usually sold in or near the fresh deli section of the grocery store. Fresh mozzarella is usually packed in water and has a much higher moisture content than “regular” mozzarella. “Regular” mozzarella is usually sold in slices or shredded and is usually located in the cheese and lunchmeat aisle at the grocery store. Essentially, they are the same cheese but the fresh mozzarella has a much higher moisture content. “Regular” mozzarella cheese is drier, has a longer shelf life, and is great for melting on pizzas, sandwiches, or on top of pasta. Fresh mozzarella does not melt as well, which is why it’s usually used in cold dishes versus hot dishes.
Put the leftover Caprese in an airtight container and put it in the refrigerator. Leftover Caprese is best if eaten within a day or so as there is a lot of moisture in both the fresh mozzarella and the tomatoes.
Looking for more Appetizer Recipes? Check out all of our appetizer recipes here!
Ingredient substitutions and tips for making Candy Cane Caprese Board:
The full ingredient list is found at the bottom of the post in the recipe card.
Mozzarella– For this recipe you must use fresh mozzarella cheese and not low-moisture or “regular” mozzarella cheese.
Tomatoes-Large fresh tomatoes are recommended. The fresher the better!
Basil-Be sure to use fresh basil. You will need about 20 leaves but that will vary based on the size of the leaves. You can also put an extra garnish of fresh basil on the board it you would like.
Olive Oil– No substitution, Olive Oil is recommended.
Balsamic Glaze– I buy pre-made balsamic glaze at the grocery store but you can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar on the stove for 10-15 minutes. The flavor will become sweeter and taste less like vinegar. I do not recommend using regular, unreduced, balsamic vinegar for this recipe.
Salt–Freshly ground sea salt is best to use. Table salt is very fine in comparison to freshly ground salt. The freshly ground salt adds great texture to the Caprese.
Pepper–Freshly ground black pepper- adds texture and additional flavor.
Directions for making Candy Cane Caprese Board:
1. Start on the left side of the board (this will be the top end of the candy cane shape) and place a slice of mozzarella on the board and then alternate slices of tomato and slices of fresh
2. mozzarella behind it creating a candy cane shape.
3. Place a couple of basil leaves in between every 3 or 4 slices of tomato and mozzarella.
4. Drizzle the candy cane with Olive oil and balsamic glaze.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper on top of the candy cane.
6. Garnish with olives, nuts, crackers, or bread.
***Be sure to serve with small appetizer plates and forks so that everyone is not eating off of the board.
Pin Candy Cane Caprese Board on Pinterest:
Recipe
Candy Cand Caprese Board
Rate this Recipe Print Recipe Pin RecipeEquipment
- 1 Large Board You can use a wood board or a flat serving tray.
Ingredients
- 16 Ounces (453.59 g) Mozzarella (Fresh and sliced into ¼ inch thick slices)
- 2 Large (2 Large) Tomatoes (Fresh and sliced into ¼ inch thick slices)
- 20 Leaves (20 Leaves) Basil (Fresh- you can use more or less based on your preference and the size of the leaves.)
- 2 Tablespoons (1.97 Tablespoons) Olive Oil
- 2 Tablespoons (1.97 Tablespoons) Balsamic Glaze
- ¼ Teaspoon (0.25 Teaspoon) Salt
- ¼ Teaspoon (0.25 Teaspoon) Pepper
Instructions
- Start on the left side of the board (this will be the top end of the candy cane shape) and place a slice of mozzarella on the board and then alternate slices of tomato and slices of fresh
- Place a couple of basil leaves in between every 3 or 4 slices of tomato and mozzarella.
- Drizzle the candy cane with Olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper on top of the candy cane.
- Garnish with olives, nuts, crackers, or bread.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only.
Leave a comment and rate this recipe!
Keep scrolling to see my newest recipes!
-
-
-
Ninja Creami Berry Blast Protein Ice Cream
If you are tired of forcing down protein shakes and you are looking for a better way to hit your macros, then you have to try this Ninja Creami Berry Blast Protein Ice Cream. It is packed with real mixed berries, loaded with protein, and it tastes like an actual dessert instead of something you are forcing yourself to eat because it is good for you. Blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries come together to create a bold berry flavor that is bright, fruity, and absolutely delicious. This recipe comes in at 279 calories, 26 grams of protein, 19 grams of sugar, 6 […]
-
Ninja Creami Low Calorie Strawberry Whip
If you love strawberries and you love frozen desserts but you don’t love all the calories that come with store-bought ice cream, then you are going to want to make this Ninja Creami Low Calorie Strawberry Whip right away. Think of it like a homemade strawberry version of the famous pineapple Dole Whip, but made right in your own kitchen with simple ingredients. It’s light, it’s creamy, it’s packed with real strawberry flavor, and it seriously feels like a sweet treat you shouldn’t be allowed to have on a diet. But you can. And that’s the best part. This recipe […]
-
Ninja Creami Watermelon Sorbet
If you love a fresh, sweet watermelon as much as I do, then you have to try this Ninja Creami watermelon sorbet. It is made with just one single ingredient, fresh watermelon, and it comes out smooth, creamy, and packed with that sweet, juicy watermelon flavor that just screams summer. No added sugar, no dairy, no fuss. Just watermelon. That’s it! This recipe comes in at 91 calories, 2 grams of protein, 19 grams of sugar, 5 grams of fat, and 23 carbs for the ENTIRE pint. See the recipe card at the bottom of the post for all nutrition facts. […]
-
Ninja Creami Blue Raspberry Cotton Candy Protein Ice Cream
If you love fun flavors and protein-packed desserts, this Ninja Creami Blue Raspberry Cotton Candy Protein Ice Cream is going to be your new favorite treat. It’s sweet, creamy, and it’s got a ton of cotton candy flavor in the ice cream base and in the mix-ins! Not only does it taste great, but the texture (and color) is AMAZING! Made right in the Ninja Creami ice cream machine, this recipe brings a playful twist to high-protein frozen desserts while keeping things light and refreshing. This recipe comes in at 351 calories, 27 grams of protein, 16 grams of sugar, 14 […]
-
Ninja Creami Coconut Cream Pie Protein Frozen Yogurt
If you love coconut creami pie, you’re going to love this recipe! Ninja Creami Coconut Cream Pie Protein Frozen Yogurt is creamy, lightly sweet, and 37 grams of protein per pint. With toasted coconut yogurt, whey protein, and a hint of vanilla and coconut extract, it tastes just like dessert with some extra protein and without the extra calories. This recipe comes in at 404 calories, 37 grams of protein, 6 grams of sugar, 19 grams of fat, 42 carbs, 18 net carbs (total carbs-allulose) for the ENTIRE pint. See the recipe card at the bottom of the post for all […]
-
The BEST Ninja Creami Full Fat/Sugar/Dairy Recipes
Check out my favorite classic Ninja Creami ice cream recipes made with real dairy and real sugar. These are just good, old-fashioned ice cream flavors with no special diet focus, no swaps, and no compromises. If you are new to the Ninja Creami or just want dependable recipes that taste like actual creamy ice cream, this is exactly where to start. You will find familiar favorites like chocolate chip, chocolate lovers ice cream, Butterfinger, M&M ice cream, mint chocolate chip, strawberry ice cream, frozen yogurts, and even Dole Whip style treats. These recipes are meant to be fun, nostalgic, and […]
-
Ninja Creami Low Calorie Grape Kool-Aid Ice Cream
I love experimenting with low-calorie ice creams, and this Grape Kool-Aid version is a fun throwback to drinking Kool-Aid as a kid. Using 2% milk, allulose, sugar-free instant vanilla pudding, and just a touch of grape Kool-Aid powder, this pint comes together with the perfect balance of sweet and fruity flavor. It’s creamy, satisfying, and still keeps the calories low. This recipe comes in at 257 calories, 12 grams of protein, 18 grams of sugar, 7 grams of fat, 81 carbs, 33 net carbs (total carbs-allulose) for the ENTIRE pint. See the recipe card at the bottom of the post for […]
-
Flodesk Email Marketing Platform That Finally Made Email Easy (and less stressful!)
Your email platform should make your life easier. It shouldn’t feel confusing, clunky, or like a full-time job to figure out. If you want beautiful emails that are quick to create and backed by great customer service, Flodesk is the one for you. It’s basically the only email tool that hasn’t made me want to throw my laptop out the window. ***I am a Flodesk partner but all of the opinions below are mine. I wouldn’t make a post about something that I didn’t actually like enough to recommend. Email matters. It’s one of the best ways to stay connected […]
-
Ninja Creami Blueberry and Vanilla Bean Frozen Yogurt
If you’re looking for a light and fruity frozen treat that’s simple to make, this Ninja Creami Blueberry and Vanilla Bean Frozen Yogurt is the perfect recipe. It’s made with just four ingredients: blueberry yogurt, coconut yogurt, vanilla bean paste, and blueberries. The Ninja Creami machine does all the work for you, creating a soft, creamy texture that tastes amazing every time. This recipe comes in at 598 calories, 23 grams of protein, 71 grams of sugar, 23 grams of fat, and 75 carbs for the ENTIRE pint. See the recipe card at the bottom of the post for all nutrition […]
-
Ninja Creami Cinnamon Green Apple Protein Ice Cream
If you love the flavor of warm cinnamon and tart green apples, this Ninja Creami Cinnamon Green Apple Protein Ice Cream will be your new favorite recipe. It’s sweet, creamy, and packed with protein, making it a dessert you can actually feel good about eating. Every spoonful tastes like a crisp fall day in the best way possible. This recipe comes in at 248 calories, 25 grams of protein, 18 grams of sugar, 5 grams of fat, 49 carbs, 25 net carbs (total carbs-allulose) for the ENTIRE pint. See the recipe card at the bottom of the post for all nutrition […]
-
Ninja Creami Low Calorie Horchata Ice Cream
This is a unique recipe for making Ninja Creami ice cream that tastes like horchata. It’s low in calories and includes a couple of secret ingredients to achieve amazing flavor and perfect texture while keeping the calories super low. This recipe comes in at 250 calories, 9 grams of protein, 8 grams of sugar, 17 grams of fat, 60 carbs, 12 net carbs (total carbs-allulose) for the ENTIRE pint. See the recipe card at the bottom of the post for all nutrition facts. You’re probably wondering what horchata is and what it tastes like. Horchata is a drink that started in […]
-
Ninja Creami Strawberry Frozen Yogurt
If you enjoy a creamy, fruity, frozen, sweet treat, you’ll love this Ninja Creami Strawberry Frozen Yogurt. Made with just two simple ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to make at home using your Ninja Creami. This recipe keeps things simple with no hard to find, complicated, or unusual ingredients, just pure, delicious strawberry flavor in every bite. This recipe comes in at 401 calories, 23 grams of protein, 65 grams of sugar, 6 grams of fat, and 66 carbs for the ENTIRE pint. See the recipe card at the bottom of the post for all nutrition facts. Making frozen yogurt at home […]
-
What to Do With Ninja Creami Leftovers and How to Keep Them Soft After Refreezing
Are your leftovers frozen solid? Don’t panic…this is NORMAL! One of the tricky things about Ninja Creami ice cream is the leftovers can become rock solid, like a chunk of ice, after refreezing. Usually, the leftovers are not soft enough to scoop. This can be problematic if you don’t want to have to process leftovers every time you want to eat them or if you have added mix-ins (mix-ins get completely mixed into the ice cream if you process them again). A couple reasons why the leftovers are not scoopable… How to resolve this issue… How to use FOOD GRADE […]
-
What is the ideal freezer temperature for Ninja Creami creations?
If you freezer temperature is not ideal, your Ninja Creami creations might not turn out as expected. If the freezer is too cold, the ice cream could be very hard or dry and powdery. If the freezer is not cold enough, the ice cream is likely to be softer than expected and oftentimes will be icy. What temperature should the freezer be set to? The recommended temperature for the freezer for Ninja Creami treats is between -7 and +9 degrees Fahrenheit. This calculates to be between -21.7 and -12.8 degrees Celsius. A few tips on properly freezing Ninja Creami creations Not […]
-
What Do You Do About the Bump on Ninja Creami Ice Cream? Can It Damage the Machine?
Let me start off by saying that not all bumps are treated equally. This is not a one-size-fits-all all answer. The information in this post is for informational purposes only and is based on my own personal experiences and the experiences of the folks in the Ninja Creami Community on Facebook. You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. This is one of the most common and controversial troubleshooting issues with the Ninja Creami. Sometimes after freezing Ninja Creami creations, a mound or hump can develop on the top of the ice cream. Per the instructions from the manufacturer, the top […]
-
How to Clean Your Ninja Creami: Spindle, Paddle, Bowl, and Lid
Learn how to clean every part of your Ninja Creami, including the spindle, paddle, outer bowl, and lid. Simple tips to keep your machine working great! Some parts are much easier to clean than others. It’s really important that you keep your Ninja Creami and the accessories nice and clean. If you don’t the pieces can start to smell bad, or in severe cases, can attract insects or start to mold. How do you clean the Ninja Creami spindle? How do you clean the Ninja Creami paddle, outer bowl, and outer bowl lid? The paddle, outer bowl, and outer bowl […]
Comments
No Comments