A balsamic reduction is a sweet and tangy glaze that will immediately elevate any dish. This balsamic glaze recipe follows the easy steps to making this descendant glaze. Use the glaze in a variety of dishes for a delicious twist. Oh, and did I mention you only need two ingredients?
Balsamic glaze is a crucial component to making an easy caprese bruschetta, or even drizzle over roasted vegetables like roasted brussels sprouts; the possibilities are truly endless!
What is Balsamic Glaze?
Balsamic glaze is simply a reduction of balsamic vinegar. Balsamic vinegar is a brown vinegar with rich, complex flavors.
Known for its feature in the iconic caprese salad, a balsamic glaze will compliment a large variety of dishes. This homemade balsamic glaze recipe will take you through two easy steps to making your balsamic reduction. You’ll be amazed at how quick and easy this recipe truly is: it requires less than 15 minutes of total cooking time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easiest glaze ever. Just two ingredients and two steps for the most tasty glaze.
- It adds so much flavor. The presence of this glaze will elevate any dish you add it to.
- Versatile. Add this glaze to salads, sandwiches, and even pizza!
- Keeps well. Make a large batch and refrigerate for up to two weeks.
Ingredients for Balsamic Glaze
There are just two ingredients to make the homemade reduction!
- Balsamic vinegar – any brand will do, but Modena is our favorite.
- Brown sugar – balances the acidity by adding sweetness.
How to Make Balsamic Glaze
The most simple instructions ever:
Cooking Expert Tip:
Be cautious when cooking the reduction, as overcooking will make the glaze hard. You want it to reach a consistency where it’s thickened but still slightly running off the spoon. It will thicken even more as it cools.
Serving Suggestions
- Sandwich: Drizzle this glaze onto a breakfast croissant sandwich for a sweet and savory melody.
- Salad: Balsamic glaze is essential when making a classic caprese salad, but it is also delicious when featured on a spinach salad with strawberries or drizzled over tomato burrata salad.
- Toast: Feature this glaze on your avocado toast for an incredible breakfast toast.
- Pizza: A light drizzle of balsamic glaze tastes unbelievable on a chicken flatbread pizza.
Recipe FAQs
You can make this glaze by just reducing balsamic vinegar! However, the result is a lot more acidic.
You can use any sweetener for this glaze instead of the brown sugar. Some great options include honey or maple syrup.
The glaze is slightly sweet; however, the acidity in the vinegar pairs perfectly with the sugar. The result is a glaze that isn’t overwhelmingly sweet. If you want a really sweet glaze, we suggest adding more sugar.
Store & Reheat
- Storage. Store the cooled glaze in a clean glass jar in the fridge and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
- Freeze. We don’t recommend freezing this glaze.
More Sauces and Dressings to Try:
If you enjoyed this balsamic glaze recipe, be sure to try our other popular condiments and sauces:
If you tried this Balsamic Glaze Recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below – we appreciate it!
Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Instructions
Notes
- Store the cooled glaze in a glass jar for up to three weeks.
- Be careful not to overcook the glaze as it will become thick.
- You can use any sweetener to substitute the brown sugar. Great options include honey, granulated sugar, or maple syrup.