20 Exquisite Tomatoes Dessert Recipes Unconventional

When it comes to desserts, tomatoes are often overlooked as a sweet ingredient. However, with their natural sweetness and versatility, they can add a surprising twist to traditional treats. From sorbets to cakes, these 20 exquisite tomato dessert recipes will challenge your perceptions of this humble fruit. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious cook, you’ll find inspiration in these unconventional creations that combine the flavors of summer with the comfort of sweet indulgence.

In this article, we’ll delve into the world of tomato desserts and explore innovative ways to incorporate tomatoes into your baking repertoire. From classic pairings like strawberry and basil to unexpected matches like coconut and cardamom, you’ll discover a range of mouthwatering recipes that will delight both taste buds and eyes.

Stay tuned for more!

Tomato and Basil Sorbet

This sweet and tangy sorbet is perfect for hot summer days when you need a cooling pick-me-up. With the flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil, it’s a unique and delicious dessert that will surprise your taste buds.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, pureed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the tomato puree, sugar, and water. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Stir in the chopped basil and lemon juice.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: None (chill time: 30 minutes)

Tomato Jam Tartlets

Add a burst of summer flavor to your gatherings with these bite-sized tartlets, featuring a rich tomato jam filling and flaky pastry crust.

Ingredients:

– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. In a bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, sugar, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place a spoonful of tomato jam in the center of each pastry square. Fold edges up to form a tartlet shape, pressing gently to seal.
5. Place tartlets on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Tomato and Strawberry Gelato

This unique gelato recipe combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of tomatoes, creating a refreshing and flavorful dessert. Perfect for warm weather or as a sweet treat any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup strawberry puree
– 1/4 cup tomato puree (cooked and blended until smooth)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the strawberry and tomato purees, and vanilla extract.
3. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop and serve.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (heating the mixture) + chilling time

Tomato and Lemon Curd Parfait

This sweet and tangy parfait combines the brightness of lemon curd with the richness of tomato, perfect for a light and satisfying dessert or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, lemon juice, and melted butter until dissolved.
2. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
3. Fold in diced tomatoes.
4. Spoon the curd into individual serving cups or glasses.
5. Top with Greek yogurt and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep) + chilling time

Enjoy your Tomato and Lemon Curd Parfait!

Tomato and Honey Panna Cotta

A creamy panna cotta infused with the sweetness of honey and the tanginess of fresh tomatoes, perfect for a unique dessert experience.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 large tomato, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 170°F (75°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in honey until dissolved.
4. Let the mixture cool slightly, then whisk in diced tomato and salt to taste.
5. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.

Cooking Time: None (as it’s a chilled dessert). Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tomato and Raspberry Compote

Sweet and tangy, this Tomato and Raspberry Compote is a perfect condiment for any occasion. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s a great way to add some flavor and color to your dishes.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup of fresh raspberries
– 2 tablespoons of honey
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the cherry tomatoes and raspberries.
2. Add the honey, lemon juice, and salt to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the compote has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool before serving.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Tomato and Mint Granita

This refreshing granita combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the cooling essence of mint, perfect for hot summer days or as a light dessert any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, cored and halved
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– Salt to taste

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. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Pour the mixture into a shallow metal pan or 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Scrape the mixture with a fork to form crystals, then serve chilled.

Cooking Time: None

Serves: 4-6

Tomato and Orange Blossom Cake

A moist and flavorful cake that combines the sweetness of oranges with the tanginess of tomatoes, perfect for a unique dessert or snack.

Ingredients:

– 2 large ripe tomatoes, pureed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the melted butter, pureed tomatoes, eggs, and orange blossom water to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Tomato and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

This unique dessert combines the freshness of tomatoes with the creaminess of vanilla bean ice cream, creating a refreshing twist on traditional desserts. Perfect for hot summer days or as a unique treat anytime.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup tomato puree
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Add tomato puree and vanilla bean to the mixture. Stir to combine.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into an ice cream maker. Discard solids.
5. Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions until set, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes + churning time

Tomato and Cardamom Pudding

A unique and flavorful dessert that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the warmth of cardamom, perfect for a warm summer evening.

Ingredients:

– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and cardamom.
3. Add diced tomatoes, milk, eggs, and melted butter to the bowl. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the pudding is set and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Tomato and Coconut Macaroons

These chewy macaroons get a surprising boost from the sweetness of tomatoes and the creaminess of coconut. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) almond flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup (120ml) tomato puree
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and unsweetened shredded coconut.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together tomato puree, granulated sugar, egg whites, and salt until smooth.
4. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until well combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of mixture onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Tomato and Almond Clafoutis

This sweet and savory clafoutis is a unique twist on the traditional French dessert, featuring caramelized tomatoes and crunchy almonds. Perfect for warm weather or as a side dish to accompany your favorite meal.

Ingredients:

– 2 large ripe tomatoes, cored and halved
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, almonds, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Add the melted butter, eggs, and heavy cream to the bowl; whisk until smooth.
4. Arrange the tomato halves in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour the batter over the tomatoes, making sure they are fully coated.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the clafoutis is puffed and golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Tomato and Lavender Shortbread

This unique shortbread recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the floral flavor of lavender, creating a delightful treat perfect for afternoon tea or as a gift.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dried tomato flakes
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender petals
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour, salt, tomato flakes, and lavender petals; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Tomato and Cinnamon Rolls

Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these unique tomato and cinnamon rolls, combining the sweetness of cinnamon with the savory flavor of fresh tomatoes.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup diced fresh tomatoes (such as Roma or cherry)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and melted butter; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Spread diced tomatoes over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Sprinkle cinnamon evenly over the tomatoes.
8. Roll up the dough tightly; cut into 12 equal pieces.
9. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space for expansion.
10. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes

Tomato and Pistachio Baklava

Tomato and Pistachio Baklava Recipe

Discover a sweet and savory twist on the classic baklava with this innovative recipe, combining juicy tomatoes and crunchy pistachios.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes (such as heirloom or cherry)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom.
3. Add the melted butter and mix until well combined.
4. Fold in the chopped tomatoes and pistachios.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or phyllo sheets, if using.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Note: You can adjust the amount of tomatoes and pistachios according to your taste preferences. Rose water adds a unique aroma, but feel free to omit it if you prefer.

Tomato and Rosewater Cheesecake

Experience the unexpected combination of sweet and savory flavors in this unique cheesecake recipe, where the tanginess of tomatoes and the subtlety of rosewater come together to create a truly unforgettable dessert.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh tomatoes (such as cherry or grape)
– 1 tsp rosewater
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients; press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add sugar, eggs, yogurt, and rosewater; mix well.
4. Fold in chopped tomatoes; pour over crust.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set; let cool completely.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Tomato and Caramel Flan

This sweet and savory dessert combines the richness of caramel with the freshness of tomatoes, creating a unique flavor experience.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, eggs, and salt until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
4. Drizzle caramel sauce over the filling, followed by a spoonful of diced tomato.
5. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves on top (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and centers still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Tomato and Gingerbread Cookies

Experience the unique fusion of sweet and savory flavors with these innovative Tomato and Gingerbread Cookies. The tangy freshness of tomatoes pairs surprisingly well with the warm spices of gingerbread, creating a truly one-of-a-kind treat.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh tomatoes (such as Roma or cherry tomatoes)
– 1 large egg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add chopped tomatoes and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in the egg until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Tomato and Chocolate Mousse

Experience the unexpected union of sweet and savory flavors in this unique dessert.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup ripe tomatoes, peeled and seeded
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), melted
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, puree the tomatoes until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold the tomato puree into the whipped cream until well combined.
4. Melt the chocolate and let it cool slightly.
5. Fold the melted chocolate into the tomato-cream mixture.
6. Stir in the sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
7. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)

Tomato and Maple Syrup Pie

This unique pie combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes with the richness of maple syrup, creating a sweet and savory masterpiece perfect for brunch or dinner. With a flaky crust and a filling that’s both tangy and sweet, this pie is sure to delight.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cream, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the cherry tomatoes and toss until they’re evenly coated.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Fill the crust with the tomato mixture.
4. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
5. Let the pie cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Summary

Get ready to rethink your dessert game with these unconventional tomato recipes! From sweet treats like Tomato and Strawberry Gelato to savory delights like Tomato and Basil Sorbet, there’s something for everyone. Discover unique flavor combinations like Tomato and Honey Panna Cotta or Tomato and Rosewater Cheesecake. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try making a Tomato and Mint Granita or a Tomato and Cardamom Pudding. With these 20 exquisite recipes, you’ll be the talk of the town with your creative dessert creations!