balsamic reduction (balsamic glaze) in a mason jar with a spoon above letting some drip back into the jar

How to Make Balsamic Glaze

This recipe is: dairy freeegg freenut freevegan

Learn how to make balsamic glaze with this easy recipe that uses only a hint of brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. It’s super easy and can be used on anything from chicken and Brussels sprouts to strawberries and ice cream. Makes about 1/2 cup.

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Learn how to make balsamic glaze with this easy recipe that uses only a hint of brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. It’s super easy and can be used on anything from chicken and Brussels sprouts to strawberries and ice cream. Makes about 1/2 cup.

balsamic reduction (balsamic glaze) in a mason jar with a spoon above letting some drip back into the jar

Why I love this balsamic glaze recipe

Balsamic glaze – also known as balsamic reduction – is one of those things that I never considered making at home. In the past, I didn’t really care for it or think it was cool enough to give it a second thought once I left a restaurant.

But a few weeks ago, something changed. I went to this new restaurant in town, Rustique, where I had pesto everything, (I may have mentioned this in my last post or two) but each piece of my pesto-laden meal was crowned with this liquid gem – balsamic glaze.

Suddenly, I couldn’t stop thinking about balsamic reduction. It’s thick, tangy, sweet and syrupy. It’s the perfect compliment to a garlicky pesto sauce or some sweet strawberries.

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Even a hearty pork tenderloin or a simple salad. And, guess what. It’s easy to make at home. It only requires two ingredients and a little bit of patience. Try making some this weekend. You’ll see.

overhead view of balsamic reduction (balsamic glaze) in a mason jar with a spoon to the side

Here’s what you’ll need to make balsamic glaze

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balsamic reduction (balsamic glaze) in a mason jar with a spoon to the side (with text overlay for Pinterest)

How to make balsamic glaze

Mix vinegar and sugar. Place your ingredients in a large saucepan or skillet. I prefer to use a stainless steel pan so I can using a wire whisk, but you can use whatever you have with the appropriate tools.

Heat the pan over medium heat until it starts to bubble, but don’t let it come to a complete boil. Since every stove is different, reduce the heat if necessary.

Simmer until thick. Let the mixture continue to cook until it reduces by half. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks, and make sure you keep an eye on it so it doesn’t completely evaporate.

Once the glaze can coat the back of a spoon, it’s ready. Remove from heat and let the balsamic glaze cool.

overhead view of balsamic reduction (balsamic glaze) in a mason jar with a spoon above letting some drip back into the jar

FAQs and Tips for making balsamic reduction

What is balsamic glaze made of? Balsamic reduction is usually made with balsamic vinegar and sweetened with a bit of sugar to counteract the acidity. Although it can be made with just balsamic vinegar.

Is balsamic vinaigrette the same things as balsamic glaze? No. Balsamic vinaigrette is made with oil, and seasonings like garlic, Dijon mustard and salt & pepper. Glaze is simple reduced balsamic vinegar with a tough of sweetness added.

How many calories are in a teaspoon of balsamic glaze? One teaspoon on balsamic reduction will contain about 10-12 calories, depending on the amount of sugar added.

How long does balsamic glaze last? You can store this reduction in the fridge for up to 1 month. After that, use your best judgement before consuming it.

balsamic reduction in a mason jar with a messy spoon covered in the balsamic glaze to the side

This recipe would be great with:

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balsamic reduction (balsamic glaze) in a mason jar with a spoon above letting some drip back into the jar

Balsamic Glaze

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Balsamic Reduction | Learn how to make your own balsamic glaze with this easy recipe that uses only a hint of brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. It’s super easy and can be used on anything from chicken and Brussel sprouts to sweet strawberries and ice cream. #balsamic #condiments

  • Author: Melissa Belanger
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: about 1/2 cup 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan or frying pan, heat vinegar and sugar over medium heat.
  2. Bring to a simmer and continue cooking until liquid has thickened enough to coat a spoon, or it has desired thickness.
  3. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • Category: Condiments
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
  • Calories: 0
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 0 mg
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 0 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 0 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: dairy free, vegan, gluten free, easy, homemade, sauce

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Last Updated on April 2, 2022 by Melissa Belanger

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