Sweet and Spicy Homemade Cherry Tomato Jam

Name: Sweet and Spicy Homemade Cherry Tomato Jam
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoon smoked paprika; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 5 cups (4 pints) cherry tomatoes; ½ cup water; ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (preferably organic); ¼ cup dark brown sugar; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: February 25, 2026

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Introduction to Sweet and Spicy Homemade Cherry Tomato Jam

As a passionate home cook, I truly believe that every good meal starts with a delicious condiment. That’s where my Sweet and Spicy Homemade Cherry Tomato Jam comes into play. This jam is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a shortcut to elevate any dish. Imagine drizzling it over grilled meats, spreading it on fresh bread, or pairing it with cheese. For busy moms and professionals, this quick recipe offers a little act of culinary joy, making any meal feel special while fitting seamlessly into your hectic schedule.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet and Spicy Homemade Cherry Tomato Jam

This charming Sweet and Spicy Homemade Cherry Tomato Jam is so simple to whip up, even on the busiest of days. It combines the tangy flavor of ripe cherry tomatoes with a delightful sweetness and just the right amount of heat. In about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious condiment that’s perfect for sandwiches, cheese boards, or even as a marinade. You’ll love how versatile it is!

Ingredients for Sweet and Spicy Homemade Cherry Tomato Jam

When it comes to crafting my Sweet and Spicy Homemade Cherry Tomato Jam, I choose ingredients that bring balance and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Olive oil: A splash of liquid gold that helps sauté aromatics while adding richness.
Onion: A small diced onion provides a sweet foundation and depth to the jam.
Garlic: Four cloves of minced garlic pack a punch of flavor, making this jam irresistible.

Smoked paprika: This spice adds a warm, smoky essence that perfectly complements the tomatoes.
Crushed red pepper flakes: Just a hint of heat that elevates the jam from sweet to spicy.
Cherry tomatoes: The star of the show! Use ripe and juicy cherry tomatoes for maximum flavor.

Water: Helps to create the right consistency as the tomatoes break down during cooking.
Apple cider vinegar: This balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and brown sugar with a tangy kick.
Dark brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor that deepens the jam’s complexity.

Fresh thyme: A few sprigs of this herb introduce a fragrant, earthy note that complements the jam beautifully.
Kosher salt: Enhances and rounds out all the flavors without overpowering them.
Freshly ground black pepper: A finishing touch of spice that adds an extra layer of flavor.

For those curious about exact measurements, don’t worry! You can find them at the bottom of the article, along with printing options to make it even easier for you.

How to Make Sweet and Spicy Homemade Cherry Tomato Jam

Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time for the fun part! Making your own Sweet and Spicy Homemade Cherry Tomato Jam is a rewarding experience that will fill your kitchen with delightful aromas. Follow these simple steps, and you won’t believe how easy it is!

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot or a Dutch oven over medium heat. Once it shimmers, toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent. This is where the magic begins, as the olive oil helps to create a rich base for all those incredible flavors!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Next, add four minced garlic cloves along with two teaspoons of smoked paprika and a quarter teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Stir these ingredients well and cook for another 30 seconds. This stage is crucial—allowing the garlic and spices to bloom enhances their flavors dramatically, setting a flavor-packed stage for your jam.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients and Bring to a Boil

Now it’s time to add the star—five cups of cherry tomatoes, along with half a cup of water, a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar, and a quarter cup of dark brown sugar. Sprinkle in two teaspoons of kosher salt and one teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Give it all a good stir, and crank up the heat! Bring the mixture to a lively boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Just look for those delightful bubbles forming—this is where the fun really starts!

Step 4: Simmer for Perfect Consistency

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, allowing the jam to simmer gently. Keep stirring occasionally for about 25-30 minutes. The jam should thicken up beautifully during this time. You’ll know it’s ready when it reaches a spreadable, jammy consistency. Trust me, the wait is worth it as the flavors meld together perfectly!

Step 5: Cool and Store

After the jam has thickened to your liking, remove those fresh thyme sprigs and discard them. Let the jam cool in the pot for a bit before spooning it into airtight glass jar(s). Once cooled, you can store your homemade cherry tomato jam in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just be prepared for compliments when you share it with your loved ones!

Tips for Success

Use ripe cherry tomatoes for maximum flavor.
Taste as you go! Adjust spices to suit your heat preference.
If the jam seems too thick, add a splash of water while cooking.

Make a double batch and share some with friends—it’s perfect for gifting!
Experiment by adding herbs like basil for an extra flavor twist.

Equipment Needed

Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: A heavy-bottomed pot works best for even cooking.

Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for chopping your ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise ingredient amounts for perfect results.
Airtight Glass Jars: Ideal for storing your delicious jam.

Variations

Herb-Infused: Swap out thyme for fresh basil or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

Fruit-Enhanced: Mix in diced peaches or apricots for a sweeter, fruitier jam.
Spicy Twist: For those who love an extra kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add jalapeños.
Vegan Option: Replace dark brown sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar for a vegan-friendly jam.

Smoky Hot: Use chipotle powder instead of smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Spread the jam on fresh, crusty bread for a delightful appetizer.
Pair it with a cheese platter featuring sharp cheddar or creamy brie.

Use it as a glaze for grilled meats like chicken or pork.
Serve alongside savory pancakes or waffles for a tasty twist.
Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine for a refreshing pairing!

FAQs about Sweet and Spicy Homemade Cherry Tomato Jam

Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
While cherry tomatoes add a wonderful sweetness, you can substitute regular tomatoes if needed. Just be sure to remove the seeds and excess water to achieve a jam-like consistency.

How do I know when the jam is done cooking?
Look for a thickened, spreadable consistency. When it coats the back of a spoon and doesn’t run off quickly, it’s ready! Give it a taste test to ensure the flavors are just right.

Can I freeze this Sweet and Spicy Homemade Cherry Tomato Jam?
Absolutely! You can freeze the jam in airtight containers for up to six months. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the jar to allow for expansion.

What’s the best way to serve this jam?
This jam complements a variety of dishes! Use it on cheese boards, serve with grilled meats, or spread it on your favorite sandwiches to elevate their flavor.

How can I adjust the sweetness or spiciness of the jam?
Feel free to experiment! Increase the dark brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter jam, or add more crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier kick that will delight your palate.

Final Thoughts

Making this Sweet and Spicy Homemade Cherry Tomato Jam has brought so much joy to my kitchen! Each time I whip up a batch, it’s as if I’m capturing summer in a jar. The vibrant colors and burst of flavors bring a sense of accomplishment that I can share with family and friends. Plus, it’s incredibly rewarding to see their faces light up as they taste it. This jam has a knack for transforming simple meals into something truly memorable. I hope you find as much happiness in crafting this delightful condiment as I do!