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    Home » Appetizers

    Caramelized Balsamic Vinegar Glaze (Balsamic Reduction)

    Published: May 28, 2023 by Rebecca Taig · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    Jump to Recipe Pin Recipe Print Recipe

    Caramelized Balsamic Vinegar Glaze (balsamic reduction) is so easy to make in your very own kitchen. It takes less than 20 minutes and helps elevate so many dishes!

    A picture of a glass jar of balsamic glaze with a silver spoon inside the jar.

    Homemade balsamic glaze is always better in my opinion, especially when it takes little to no time with minimal ingredients. Most commercial brands have stabilizers, coloring, and unnecessary amounts of sugar. This Caramelized Balsamic Vinegar Glaze recipe has only one ingredient. Balsamic vinegar. That's it! Reducing the vinegar helps evaporate the water and concentrate the natural sugars, making it naturally sweetened. 

    Gifting a jar of this glaze is perfect during the holidays. Its intense flavor is super versatile for both savory and sweet items. We love serving it drizzled on top of Roasted Asparagus, grilled chicken, Bacon-Wrapped Dates, and Caprese salad. For a decadent treat, you can add it on top of poached pears, or vanilla ice cream with strawberries. 

    Jump to:
    • Ingredients
    • How can I make my balsamic glaze sweeter?
    • Instructions
    • Storage
    • Top tip
    • FAQ
    • Recipe
    • Reviews

    Ingredients

    A picture of a bottle of balsamic vinegar.
    • Balsamic Vinegar: You don't have to buy an overly priced balsamic. Look for a moderately priced classic balsamic vinegar stored in a glass bottle. A good quality balsamic vinegar will have its ingredients listed as “cooked grape and white vinegar". Cheaper balsamic will be combined with wine vinegar, caramel, flavorings, and other ingredients. 

    How can I make my balsamic glaze sweeter?

    Caramelized balsamic glaze on its own is pretty sweet, and I would recommend trying it without any sweeteners first. But if you'd like just a touch more sweetness, I would recommend 1-2 tablespoons of honey, pure maple syrup, or brown sugar.

    Instructions

    An overview shot of balsamic vinegar in a glass measuring up.

    Meaure. Pour one cup of balsamic vinegar and any sweetener (if using) into a small saucepan.

    An overview shot of a silver saucepan with balsamic glaze, and a spoon coated with the glaze.

    Reduce. Bring the balsamic to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally until reduced by half and lightly coats the back of a spoon. It will thicken more as it cools.

    A glass jar with balsamic glaze with a spoon dripping the glaze into the jar.

    Store. Transfer the balsamic glaze to a glass jar, let cool to room temperature then refrigerate for up to 4 weeks.

    Storage

    How long does balsamic glaze last? You can store your balsamic glaze in a sealed glass container in the refrigerator fridge for 4 weeks.

    Top tip

    Once the vinegar beings to boil, quickly reduce the temperature to a simmer to avoid the balsamic glaze from burning. Stir frequently.

    A glass jar with balsamic glaze dripping off the side of the jar with a large silver spoon inside the jar.

    FAQ

    Which balsamic vinegar should you use? 

    Some of the best balsamic vinegars are from the Modena region, served in glass bottles. 

    What is a balsamic glaze made of?

    Balsamic glaze is also called a “balsamic reduction.” It is essentially a reduction of balsamic vinegar. Sweeteners like honey or maple syrup can be added for added sweetness.

    How to use balsamic glaze?

    Balsamic glaze is a great addition to roasted vegetables, Caprese salad, various crusty breads, grilled chicken, or used as a salad dressing.

    Is balsamic glaze gluten-free?

    Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, but check the labels on store-bought brands.

    How to make the balsamic glaze without sugar

    Making balsamic glaze does not require added sugar. Reducing the balsamic vinegar concentrates the natural sugars making the glaze naturally sweet.

    Recipe

    Caramelized Balsamic Vinegar Glaze (Balsamic Reduction)

    Recipe Author : Rebecca Taig
    Diet :Gluten Free
    Caramelized Balsamic Vinegar Glaze (balsamic reduction) is so easy to make in your very own kitchen. It takes less than 20 minutes and helps elevate so many dishes!
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Course Appetizer
    Cook Time 15 minutes mins
    Total Time 15 minutes mins
    Servings 8
    Calories 28 kcal
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    Ingredients
     

    • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
    • Optional sweetener: 1 to 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

    Instructions
     

    • Meaure. Pour one cup of balsamic vinegar and any sweetener (if using) into a small saucepan.
    • Reduce. Bring the balsamic to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally until reduced by half and lightly coats the back of a spoon. It will thicken more as it cools.
    • Store. Transfer the balsamic glaze to a glass jar, let cool to room temperature then refrigerate for up to 4 weeks.

    Notes

    Store: Balsamic glaze can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks.
    Reduction time: It depends on the size of your saucepan - a larger saucepan will reduce faster but may end up burning the glaze. A small saucepan on simmer can take up to 20 minutes but will yield the best results.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1tablespoonCalories: 28kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 0.2gSodium: 7mgPotassium: 36mgSugar: 5gCalcium: 9mgIron: 0.2mg
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