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! 

2-ingrient Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe in a glass jar with a spoon.

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.
A jar of balsamic glaze with a spoon to show the consistency.

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:

  1. Whisk together balsamic vinegar and sugar in a small bowl. Proceed to pour into a saucepan.
  2. Bring the pan to a soft boil and simmer on low-medium heat until it reduces by half. It will take you approximately 12 minutes. Allow the reduction to cool completely before using or storing. 

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

Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing in a mason jar with a spoon, next to a bowl of caprese salad.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this glaze without sugar? 

You can make this glaze by just reducing balsamic vinegar! However, the result is a lot more acidic. 

Can I use honey for balsamic glaze? 

You can use any sweetener for this glaze instead of the brown sugar. Some great options include honey or maple syrup.

Is balsamic glaze sweet? 

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

Author: Valentina
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5 from 5 votes
All you need is two ingredients to follow this easy balsamic glaze recipe. Get a rich and complex balsamic reduction, perfect for drizzling over your favorite sandwich or a tasty salad.
Prep Time: 0 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 12 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 3 Tbsp lightly packed brown sugar

Instructions

  • In a saucepan, whisk together balsamic vinegar and sugar.
  • Over low-medium heat, bring the mixture to a soft boil. Simmer the glaze until the vinegar is reduced by half; this should take about 12 minutes.

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.

Nutrition

31kcal Calories7g Carbs1g Protein5mg Sodium24mg Potassium7g Sugar8mg Calcium0.1mg Iron
Nutrition Facts
Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Amount Per Serving
Calories 31
% Daily Value*
Sodium 5mg0%
Potassium 24mg1%
Carbohydrates 7g2%
Sugar 7g8%
Protein 1g2%
Calcium 8mg1%
Iron 0.1mg1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
(The nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.)