These Halloween Caprese Skewers are a fun twist on the classic snack! Made with fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil, they’re spooky yet delicious.
They’re super easy to put together, and kids love them! The bright colors make your Halloween table pop. I always enjoy sneaking a few while I set them up! 🎃
Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Mozzarella (Bocconcini): These bite-size cheese balls are perfect for the skull shape. If you’re in a pinch, you can use string cheese cut into chunks. It’s not as spooky, but it’ll still taste good!
Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. If you can’t find them, grape tomatoes work just as well. Just ensure they’re ripe for the best flavor.
Fresh Basil: Basil gives a nice herbal note. If you need an alternative, try using arugula or spinach for a different flavor. Dried basil can work in a pinch, but fresh is best!
Smoked Paprika: This adds a smoky flavor and enhances the look. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or even some chili powder can add a nice kick!
How Do I Create Skulls from Mozzarella?
Carving mozzarella into skulls may seem tricky, but it’s really quite simple! Use a small knife or melon baller to create little holes for eyes and a mouth. Here’s how:
- Start with well-drained mozzarella balls. Pat them dry to avoid any water splashes.
- Using your knife, gently press or cut out two small holes for eyes and a slight curve for a mouth.
- Practice makes perfect! Don’t worry if your first few attempts aren’t perfect. It’s all in good fun!
How to Make Halloween Caprese Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 12 cherry tomatoes
- 12 fresh basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 small wooden skewers or toothpicks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare. Perfect for a quick and festive treat to wow your Halloween guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mozzarella Skulls:
Using a small knife or a specialized cutter, carefully carve out eye holes and a mouth in each mozzarella ball. This will create cute little skull faces! It’s a fun and simple way to give your skewers a spooky vibe.
2. Dry the Mozzarella:
After carving the mozzarella, lightly pat each skull dry with a paper towel. This will help them absorb flavors better and prevent excess moisture.
3. Season the Mozzarella:
In a shallow dish, drizzle a teaspoon of olive oil over your mozzarella skulls. Then, sprinkle the smoked paprika evenly for that creepy, aged look. Set them aside while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.
4. Rinse the Tomatoes and Basil:
Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cool water to ensure they’re fresh. Pat them dry with a paper towel—this step makes sure everything is nice and clean on your skewers!
5. Assemble the Skewers:
Take a wooden skewer or toothpick and thread one cherry tomato onto it first. Next, fold a basil leaf and add it to the skewer. Finish it off with a mozzarella skull on top!
6. Arrange and Season:
Place your assembled skewers onto a serving platter. If you’d like, lightly season them with a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These Halloween Caprese Skewers are ready to impress! You can serve them immediately, or if you need to prepare in advance, refrigerate them until you’re ready to entertain. Enjoy your festive and delicious spooky snack!
Can I Use Different Ingredients for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap out fresh mozzarella balls for string cheese cut into pieces or use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes. For the basil, try spinach or arugula if you prefer other greens.
How Do I Prepare the Mozzarella Skulls Without Special Tools?
No specialized tools are needed! You can use a small knife to carefully cut out shapes for the eyes and mouth. Just take your time and make small incisions for the best results.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the skewers a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This helps the flavors meld and makes it a convenient option for party prep!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They can lose some crispness, but they’ll still taste good. Just be mindful of the tomatoes and mozzarella potentially becoming a bit soggy.
