Ingredients:

  • 8 oz block Full-Fat Cream Cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup Sour Cream or Crème Fraîche
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon Freshly Cracked Black Pepper, plus more to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups Cherry or Grape Tomatoes, halved or quartered
  • 6 oz Fresh Mozzarella Pearls (Bocconcini), drained and patted dry
  • 1/4 cup packed Fresh Basil Leaves, chiffonade
  • 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)
  • 2 tablespoons Balsamic Glaze (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Soften and Combine: In a medium mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream/crème fraîche until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and completely lump-free. A rubber spatula is ideal here.
  2. Season: Mix in the garlic powder, the initial 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and the initial 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning as needed.
  3. Spread: Transfer the seasoned base mixture to a shallow serving dish (like a 9-inch pie plate). Use the back of a spoon or spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom, creating a smooth, flat canvas for the toppings.
  4. Chop Ingredients: Halve or quarter the cherry tomatoes and place them in a small bowl. Ensure the mozzarella pearls are drained and patted very dry before adding them to the tomatoes.
  5. Dress the Topping: Add the chiffonade of fresh basil and 1 tablespoon of Extra Virgin Olive Oil to the tomato and mozzarella mixture. Gently stir to coat everything evenly.
  6. Season the Topping: Sprinkle the topping mixture lightly with a pinch of salt and a grind of pepper.
  7. Layer: Spoon the prepared Caprese topping mixture evenly over the cream cheese base, ensuring that the base is fully covered right to the edges.
  8. Chill: Cover the dip loosely and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes. This chilling time is crucial for the base to firm up and for the flavors to meld.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic glaze artfully over the top of the dip. Serve immediately with crostini, crackers, or vegetables.