Are you ready to think outside the box when it comes to desserts? Look no further! Tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many savory dishes, but they can also add a sweet and tangy twist to your favorite treats. In this article, we’ll explore 18 unique and mouth-watering tomato dessert recipes that will make your taste buds dance.
From classic combinations like Tomato and Basil Sorbet to more unexpected pairings like Tomato and Peach Cobbler, these sweet and savory desserts are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a new adventure in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered with this collection of recipes that will make you fall in love with tomatoes all over again.
Tomato and Basil Sorbet
This sweet and tangy sorbet is perfect for hot summer days. By combining the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and a hint of sugar, you’ll create a unique dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups tomato puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomato puree, sugar, and water. Blend until smooth.
2. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and lemon juice.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, scoop the sorbet into bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (depending on your ice cream maker)
Tomato Jam with Vanilla Bean
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of tomatoes with the creamy richness of vanilla bean, creating a unique and delicious jam perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine tomatoes, sugar, honey, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a simmer (about 10 minutes).
3. Add the split vanilla bean to the pot and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the jam has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the water. Let it cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Tips:
– Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
– This jam will keep in the fridge for up to 6 months or frozen for up to 1 year.
Roasted Tomato and Honey Tart
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this rustic tart, perfect for a summer evening or as a side dish for your next dinner party. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of tomatoes, which pairs perfectly with the floral notes of honey.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and sugar on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Arrange roasted tomatoes on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Drizzle honey over tomatoes and sprinkle with chopped basil (if using).
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling, pressing gently to seal. Brush edges with a little water.
7. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tomato and Strawberry Compote
This sweet and savory compote is a perfect combination of juicy tomatoes and luscious strawberries, ideal for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a sauce for grilled meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato halves, strawberry slices, honey, apple cider vinegar, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the strawberries have broken down into a syrupy consistency.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh mint leaves, if using.
5. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato and Peach Cobbler
Sweet and savory, this cobbler combines the flavors of ripe peaches and fresh tomatoes with a crispy, buttery crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe peaches, diced
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, tomato, sugar, honey, and salt. Mix well.
3. Roll out the flour and butter mixture on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Place over the peach mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Fold edges of the crust up over the filling, then brush with egg wash for a golden glaze.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
6. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tomato and Ricotta Cheesecake
This unique dessert combines the flavors of ripe tomatoes and creamy ricotta cheese, perfect for a warm summer evening. With its golden crust and velvety filling, this cheesecake is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp tomato puree
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs and sugar in a bowl, then adding melted butter until well combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, tomato puree, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
4. Pour the filling over the crust and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
5. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tomato and Lemon Curd Tartlets
These bite-sized tartlets combine the sweetness of lemon curd with the tanginess of fresh tomatoes, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a summer gathering or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Spoon a small amount of lemon curd onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
3. Top with diced tomato and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
4. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or shape of your choice.
5. Brush edges with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato and Cinnamon Poached Pears
Sweet and savory Tomato and Cinnamon Poached Pears make a unique dessert perfect for the fall season. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of pears with the warmth of cinnamon and a hint of tomato acidity.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and halved
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup water
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Add the pear halves to the saucepan, cut side up.
3. Pour in the water, making sure the pears are mostly submerged.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pears are tender.
5. Remove the pears from the liquid with a slotted spoon and let cool slightly.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato and Cardamom Ice Cream
Experience the unexpected union of sweet and savory flavors with this unique ice cream recipe. The tanginess of tomatoes is balanced by the warm, aromatic spices of cardamom, creating a fascinating dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, pureed
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the pureed tomatoes and ground cardamom. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Churn the mixture according to your ice cream maker’s instructions.
5. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required (ice cream churning time: approximately 20-30 minutes)
Tomato and Orange Marmalade
This recipe combines the freshness of tomatoes with the brightness of orange marmalade, perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a glaze for meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 lemon, juiced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chopped tomatoes, orange marmalade, sugar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the mixture has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice (if using).
4. Let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato and Almond Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of almonds with the tanginess of tomatoes, perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes (about 2 medium-sized)
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
4. Fold in diced tomatoes and sliced almonds.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cake cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tomato and Coconut Panna Cotta
This creamy dessert combines the sweetness of coconut with the tanginess of fresh tomatoes, creating a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress. Perfect for warm weather or as a refreshing treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup tomato puree
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, heavy cream, sugar, and tomato puree.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture simmers and thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (cooking) + 4-8 hours (chilling)
Tomato and Ginger Sorbet
This refreshing sorbet combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the spicy warmth of ginger, perfect for a light and revitalizing dessert on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped tomatoes, sugar, water, and grated ginger. Blend until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds or pulp.
3. Stir in the lemon juice.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop into bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (including churning time)
Tomato and Lavender Shortbread
This recipe combines the sweetness of shortbread with the unexpected flavor of tomato and the subtlety of lavender, creating a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– 2 tablespoons tomato puree
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into crumbs.
3. Stir in salt, lavender buds, tomato puree, and granulated sugar until well combined.
4. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead until it comes together.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or simply use a cookie cutter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Tomato and Maple Syrup Pudding
This unique pudding combines the richness of tomatoes with the deep sweetness of maple syrup, creating a flavor profile that’s both familiar and excitingly new. Perfect as a side dish or dessert, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup pureed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, pureed tomatoes, maple syrup, sugar, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pudding is set and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato and Mint Granita
This granita is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, with the freshness of mint adding a delightful twist. It’s a great way to enjoy tomatoes in a new light, especially during the warm summer months.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the cherry tomatoes until smooth.
2. Add the fresh mint leaves and blend until well combined.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato-mint mixture, sugar, and water.
4. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
6. Pour the mixture into a shallow metal pan or 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Freeze for at least 2 hours or until set. Scrape with a fork to form crystals.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tomato and Rosemary Olive Oil Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the herbal aroma of rosemary, all wrapped up in a delicate olive oil crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) ripe tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, milk, diced tomatoes, and chopped rosemary.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tomato and Dark Chocolate Mousse
This unique dessert combines the richness of dark chocolate with the subtle sweetness of fresh tomatoes, creating a fascinating fusion of flavors. This Tomato and Dark Chocolate Mousse is perfect for adventurous palates looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, peeled and seeded
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the tomatoes until smooth.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
3. Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream until well combined.
5. Add the tomato puree, sugar, and salt to the chocolate mixture. Fold until smooth.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Serves: 6-8
Summary
Discover the sweet side of tomatoes with these 18 delicious dessert recipes. From classic combinations like Tomato and Basil Sorbet to innovative pairings like Tomato and Peach Cobbler, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include Tomato Jam with Vanilla Bean, Roasted Tomato and Honey Tart, and Tomato and Ricotta Cheesecake. These unique desserts are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and tangy flavors or looking for a twist on traditional desserts, these recipes will inspire your next culinary creation.
