Creamy Tomato Butter is a rich and flavorful spread that blends butter with fresh cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic shallots. This velvety condiment is perfect for slathering on warm bread, elevating pasta dishes, or adding a savory punch to roasted veggies. Whether you're prepping for a dinner party or just want to upgrade your toast game, this tomato-infused butter is a simple yet gourmet addition to your kitchen arsenal.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: A bold mix of sweet cherry tomatoes and umami-rich sun-dried tomatoes.
- Quick & Easy: Just 10 minutes of cooking, a quick blend, and you’re done.
- Versatile: Use it on toast, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or swirl into pasta.
- Vibrant & Eye-Catching: That deep red hue adds a pop of color to any dish.
- Crowd-Pleasing: It’s creamy, savory, and addictively delicious—great for sharing.
What Is Tomato Butter?
Tomato butter is a gourmet-style spread made by blending softened butter with a tomato-based reduction. Popular in both rustic Italian kitchens and modern bistros, it marries the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the intensity of sun-dried ones, all smoothed out in rich, whipped butter. Think of it as a savory cousin to compound butters—elevated, bold, and perfect for enhancing everyday meals. It’s a comfort food condiment with a chef-worthy twist.
Cooking Tips
- Use Unsalted Butter: This gives you better control over seasoning.
- Soften Butter Properly: Let it sit at room temperature—don’t melt it.
- Blend Thoroughly: A high-powered blender or immersion blender ensures a silky-smooth tomato base.
- Whip Until Fluffy: Use an electric whisk for the creamiest result.
- Adjust Acidity: Add a bit more vinegar or a pinch of sugar depending on tomato sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Cherry Tomatoes?
Fresh cherry tomatoes offer natural sweetness and less water content, but in a pinch, canned whole tomatoes (drained) can work. The flavor will be slightly different—less fresh, more stewed.
What Kind of Vinegar Should I Use?
White vinegar works great, but you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or even a splash of balsamic for extra depth.
How Do I Make This Vegan?
Swap the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or margarine. Just ensure it’s one that whips well for the same fluffy finish.
Can I Make It Spicy?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small roasted chili to the tomato mixture before blending.
Is It Freezer-Friendly?
Yes, you can freeze tomato butter in small portions (see freezing section below for full instructions).
What Bread Pairs Best With Tomato Butter?
Thick, crusty breads like sourdough, ciabatta, or a rustic baguette are ideal. Toasting enhances the flavor contrast beautifully.
How to Store
Transfer the tomato butter to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. To serve, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes so it softens slightly and becomes spreadable again. Avoid microwaving as it may cause the butter to split.
How to Freeze
You can freeze tomato butter for up to 2 months. Here's how:
- Portion it into small silicone molds or spoon onto parchment paper and roll into logs.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before use.
- Rewhip briefly if needed after thawing for a fluffier texture.
Ingredients
How To Make A Delicious Tomato Butter
To begin, place the cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped shallot, tomato paste, and a splash of white vinegar into a small saucepan. Set the pan over medium heat and let everything cook gently for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the flavors come together. You’ll notice the tomatoes soften and the mixture thicken slightly—this is exactly what you want.
To begin, place the cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped shallot, tomato paste, and a splash of white vinegar into a small saucepan. Set the pan over medium heat and let everything cook gently for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the flavors come together. You’ll notice the tomatoes soften and the mixture thicken slightly—this is exactly what you want.
Once the mixture is cooked down and fragrant, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Then, using either a countertop blender or an immersion blender, blend the tomato mixture until it’s completely smooth. The result should be a vibrant, rich red purée—this is your flavorful tomato base.
Once the mixture is cooked down and fragrant, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Then, using either a countertop blender or an immersion blender, blend the tomato mixture until it’s completely smooth. The result should be a vibrant, rich red purée—this is your flavorful tomato base.
Now, in a mixing bowl, add the softened butter. It’s important that the butter is at room temperature so it whips up easily and evenly. Pour the cooled tomato base over the butter and prepare to bring it all together.
Using an electric whisk, whip the mixture on medium speed until everything is fully incorporated. You’re looking for a creamy, airy texture with a uniform pinkish-red color. The butter should look light and fluffy, with no streaks of tomato remaining.
Once it’s ready, you can serve your creamy tomato butter right away. It’s best enjoyed slathered over a thick, toasted slice of rustic bread—preferably still warm, so the butter melts slightly into the crust. It’s truly irresistible.
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