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    Home » Recipes » Sauces + Condiments

    Caramelized Balsamic Vinegar

    Published: Aug 31, 2023 · Modified: Sep 25, 2023 by Jen Talley · This post may contain affiliate links · This blog generates income via ads

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    A spoon drizzling balsamic glaze with the text: caramelized balsamic vinegar.

    Homemade caramelized balsamic vinegar is a sweet and thick balsamic glaze that adds a punch of flavor to salads, fruit, and even desserts!

    Thick caramelized balsamic vinegar being poured off a spoon into a small bowl with bread surrounding it.

    With just a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can create a versatile and delicious condiment that will become a staple in your kitchen. 

    Whether you're a gourmet chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this simple balsamic glaze recipe is a must-try that will undoubtedly become one of your favorite recipes.

    Turn this caramelized balsamic vinegar into a delicious Balsamic Glaze Vinaigrette. Try a new variation and make a balsamic fig glaze!

    What is Caramelized Balsamic Vinegar?

    Caramelized balsamic vinegar, often referred to as "balsamic reduction" or "balsamic glaze," is a thick and syrupy sauce that is made by cooking down balsamic vinegar until it becomes concentrated and takes on a sweeter, more intense flavor.

    The process of caramelization involves reducing the vinegar over heat, causing its natural sugars to caramelize and deepen in flavor, resulting in a rich and versatile condiment.

    To make caramelized balsamic vinegar, you would typically start with a good quality balsamic vinegar, preferably the traditional aged balsamic vinegar or balsamic vinegar of Modena. The vinegar is then simmered over medium to low heat, allowing the liquid to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate. As the vinegar reduces, its sugars undergo caramelization, resulting in a thicker consistency and a sweeter taste.

    Caramelized balsamic vinegar is commonly used to add depth and complexity to a variety of dishes. Its syrupy texture makes it an excellent drizzle for salads, roasted vegetables, meats, and even desserts. Its tangy and slightly sweet flavor profile makes it a versatile ingredient that can enhance both savory and sweet dishes.

    Take a look at this other blog post for more information about the difference between Balsamic Glaze vs Balsamic Vinegar.

    A small white bowl with dark caramelized balsamic vinegar surrounded by bread.

    Why You'll Love This Recipe

    • Caramelized balsamic vinegar is so versatile. Whether you are drizzling it over a caprese salad, finishing off a plate of pork chops, or adding a tangy touch to your favorite desserts.
    • Balsamic vinegar reduction is easy to make at home with just two ingredients.
    • The syrupy consistency is thick and sweet.
    • This simple homemade balsamic glaze recipe will become your go-to condiment for enhancing a wide variety of dishes.

    Recipe Ingredients

    What makes this sweet balsamic glaze recipe so fantastic is the combination of simple ingredients that come together to create a flavor-packed masterpiece. To prepare this homemade glaze, you'll need the following ingredients.

    A bottle of balsamic vinegar, bowl of balsamic vinegar and a small bowl of white sugar.

    Balsamic Vinegar of Modena for the best quality and flavor.

    White Sugar or a little Brown Sugar for added sweetness.

    Substitutions

    • Caramelized balsamic vinegar can be made without sugar. It is more of a reduction of balsamic vinegar and will still be sweet, tangy, and have a beautiful dark color, but not as sweet.
    • White sugar, brown sugar, honey, and maple syrup can all be used interchangeably to replace the tablespoon of sugar.

    How to Make Caramelized Balsamic Vinegar

    This glaze can be made at home by following a simple recipe. It's a fantastic way to elevate your dishes with a burst of intense flavor and a touch of elegance. 

    Here's a step-by-step guide to making your own balsamic glaze. The full recipe card with ingredient measurements is below!

    In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, maple syrup (or brown sugar). Mix well to combine the ingredients.

    A small bowl of white sugar being added to a small saucepan of balsamic vinegar.

    Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

    A small saucepan simmering with balsamic vinegar.

    Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon.

    A wooden spoon with balsamic vinegar on it.

    As the glaze cooks, it will gradually reduce the volume by half or more. It will also slightly thicken. You'll know it's ready when it coats the back of a spoon.  As the delicious glaze cools it will become a thick syrupy consistency.

    The back of a spoon coated with caramelized balsamic vinegar over a small saucepan.

    Recipe Tips & Tricks

    • Reduction time varies by the size of the saucepan.
    • Use the best quality balsamic vinegar you can find. Aged balsamic vinegar of Modena will give your glaze a rich, intense flavor.
    • Adjust the sweetness according to your personal preference. If you like a sweeter glaze, add a little extra sugar.
    • Cooking the glaze over low heat allows it to slowly reduce and develop its deep, rich flavor. Avoid using high heat to prevent burning.
    • Make a large batch by doubling the recipe.

    Storage

    Once you've made caramelized balsamic vinegar, you'll want to ensure it stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible. 

    • Storage: After allowing the balsamic vinegar glaze to cool to room temperature, transfer the glaze to an airtight container or clean glass jar. Store it in the refrigerator, and your balsamic glaze will keep for about one month, ready to be used whenever your dishes need that perfect finishing touch.

    Ways to Use Caramelized Balsamic Vinegar

    The versatility of this easy glaze recipe is truly remarkable, and there are countless ways to enjoy its tangy flavor. Here are just a few ideas for a flavorful topping:

    • Drizzle over Pizza: Add a finishing touch to Margherita pizza or this prosciutto pizza with pears and pistachios.
    • On Top of Salads: Drizzle over caprese salad, mixed greens, or roasted brussel sprouts for an irresistible tangy condiment.
    • The Perfect Addition to Appetizers: One of my favorite ways to use this tangy balsamic glaze is on bruschetta or bread dipping sauce with olive oil.
    • Sweet and Savory Protein: Elevate pork chops, balsamic chicken, or even grilled steak with a sweet reduction glaze.
    • Dessert Delight: Give your vanilla ice cream or cream cheese-topped crackers a touch of sophistication with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
    • Fruit Finesse: Enhance the natural sweetness of fresh fruit such as fresh strawberries or ripe peaches with a syrupy glaze.
    • Side Dish Star: Add a finishing touch to roasted sweet potatoes or other vegetables for a flavor explosion.
    • The Perfect Balance to Aged Cheese: Pair with aged cheeses like Parmesan or gouda for a delightful contrast of flavors. 
    A slice of sourdough bread being dipped in a small bowl of caramelized balsamic vinegar.

    Variations

    Caramelized balsamic vinegar is flavorful on it its own, but it is so fun to try different glaze variations.

    • Balsamic Fig Glaze is made with fig preserves and balsamic vinegar. It has a delicate fig flavor.
    • Raspberry Balsamic Glaze uses fresh or frozen raspberries to make a deep red glaze that tastes as beautiful as it looks.
    A gold spoon drizzling raspberry glaze into a small glass bowl.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What do you do with caramelized balsamic vinegar?

    Caramelized balsamic vinegar can be used in a variety of ways. Add it to a salad with strawberries and goat cheese. It can be a finishing touch to some pork or chicken dishes. It goes very well on an assortment of appetizers such as bruschetta or caprese salad. Some people even add it on vanilla ice cream with raspberries.

    Is caramelized balsamic vinegar sweet?

    Yes, caramelized balsamic vinegar is sweet and little tangy too. When balsamic vinegar is reduced through the caramelization process, its natural sugars become concentrated, resulting in a sweeter flavor profile. The reduction process involves simmering the vinegar to evaporate its moisture and thicken it into a syrupy consistency. During this process, the sugars in the vinegar undergo caramelization, which adds depth and sweetness to the flavor.

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    📖 Recipe

    Caramelized balsamic vinegar being drizzled into a small white bowl with bread in the background.

    Caramelized Balsamic Vinegar

    Homemade caramelized balsamic vinegar is a sweet and thick balsamic glaze that adds a punch of flavor to salads, fruit, and even desserts!
    5 from 6 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    Prevent your screen from going dark
    Course: Condiment
    Cuisine: Italian
    Prep Time: 1 minute minute
    Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 21 minutes minutes
    Author: Jen Talley
    Cost: $3

    Equipment

    • 1 small saucepan

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup balsamic vinegar (250 ml)
    • 1 tablespoon white sugar (or brown sugar)

    Instructions

    • Add the balsamic vinegar and white sugar to a small saucepan. Stir it until the sugar is dissolved.
    • Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
    •  Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon.
    • As the glaze cooks, it will gradually reduce by at least half and slightly thicken. You'll know it's ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
      It will continue to thicken as it cools.

    Notes

    Tips:
    • Reduction time varies by the size of the saucepan.
    • Cooking the glaze over low heat allows it to slowly reduce and develop its deep, rich flavor. Avoid using high heat to prevent burning.
    Storage: After allowing the balsamic vinegar glaze to cool to room temperature, transfer the glaze to an airtight container or clean glass jar. Store it in the refrigerator, and your balsamic glaze will keep for about one month, ready to be used whenever your dishes need that perfect finishing touch.

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    Comments

      5 from 6 votes (1 rating without comment)

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Kimmy Shiels says

      August 31, 2023 at 6:35 pm

      5 stars
      I used the Kirkland balsamic vinegar and white sugar and it came out perfect. Nice and thick and rich! Great recipe.

      Reply
    2. Carrie Robinson says

      September 02, 2023 at 4:42 pm

      5 stars
      I just love a good balsamic reduction! So versatile and delicious. 🙂

      Reply
      • Jen Talley says

        September 03, 2023 at 2:43 am

        Me too!

        Reply
    3. Kushigalu says

      September 02, 2023 at 5:40 pm

      5 stars
      WOW! This caramelized balsamic vinegar looks fantastic. Thanks for sharing.

      Reply
      • Jen Talley says

        September 03, 2023 at 2:43 am

        You're welcome!

        Reply
    4. Ali says

      September 02, 2023 at 6:42 pm

      5 stars
      Made this caramelized balsamic vinegar to drizzle over caprese salad and it went perfectly! I love how simple it is to make.

      Reply
      • Jen Talley says

        September 03, 2023 at 2:43 am

        Hi Ali! I'm so glad you tried it and loved it!

        Reply
    5. Priya Srinivasan says

      September 02, 2023 at 7:06 pm

      5 stars
      That balsamic reduction looks fabulous. Love how simple it is to make and the amazing options to use it in regular cooking!

      Reply
      • Jen Talley says

        September 03, 2023 at 2:44 am

        Thanks Priya!

        Reply
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