Last Updated on February 28, 2026
This cherry tomato jam cooks down into a sweet and tangy spread that works on everything from cheese boards to glazed chicken. The tomatoes break down into a thick, jammy consistency in about 20 minutes on the stovetop with brown sugar and apple cider vinegar. It’s a great way to use up extra cherry tomatoes and tastes way more sophisticated than the effort required.
Quick Highlights
- Ready in 20 minutes on the stovetop
- Sweet and tangy flavor perfect for cheese boards
- Works as a spread, glaze, or condiment
Choosing Your Tomatoes & Aromatics
Cherry or grape tomatoes? Either works perfectly. Grape tomatoes are slightly less watery, but cherry tomatoes have great flavor. Use what you have or what’s on sale.
Shallot vs. onion: Shallots are milder and slightly sweeter, which works beautifully here. If using onion, go with a small yellow or white onion and dice it finely so it melts into the jam.
Want it spicy? Red chili flakes add a nice kick that balances the sweetness. Start with ¼ teaspoon and add more to taste.
Getting the Perfect Jammy Texture
Don’t rush the tomato breakdown: Let them cook until they’re soft enough to crush easily with the back of a spoon. This usually takes about 5 minutes but watch them-some tomatoes are firmer than others.
The brown sugar creates thickness: As it cooks with the tomatoes and vinegar, the mixture will thicken and become glossy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Low heat finishing is key: The last 5 minutes on low heat concentrates the flavors and thickens the jam without burning. Crush any stubborn whole tomatoes during this stage.
Ways to Use Tomato Jam
- Cheese board star: Serve with brie, goat cheese, or aged cheddar and crackers
- Toast topper: Spread on sourdough with ricotta or cream cheese
- Meat glaze: Brush on chicken, pork chops, or salmon during the last few minutes of cooking
- Burger upgrade: Use instead of ketchup for a gourmet touch
- Appetizer base: Top crostini with the jam and fresh mozzarella
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Storage
Fridge: 7-10 days in an airtight container or jar
Reheating
Not necessary-serve at room temperature or cold. If it thickens too much in the fridge, stir in a teaspoon of water.
Make-Ahead Notes
This actually tastes better after sitting overnight as the flavors develop. Make it 1-2 days ahead for best results.
📋 Recipe
Cherry Tomato Jam
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Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 shallot or ½ small onion
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- salt to taste
- red chili flakes optional
Instructions
- Place olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Dice shallot or onion, then add along with the cherry tomatoes to the saucepan.
- Cook until the tomatoes can be easily crushed by the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
- Add apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and salt (and optional red chili flakes).
- Continue to cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low, crushing the tomatoes occasionally as needed, for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool before using or storing.
