Corner Bakery Tomato Soup Recipe

When the weather gets cooler and you’re craving something warm and comforting, there’s nothing better than a bowl of tomato soup. But not just any tomato soup-one that brings all the flavors of ripe, fresh tomatoes, creamy richness, and a hint of savory herbs. Enter the Corner Bakery Tomato Soup Recipe-a beloved classic that has made its mark in homes and restaurants alike.

What makes this version stand out is its smooth, velvety texture and balanced flavor, which transports you to a cozy corner cafe with every spoonful. Perfectly paired with a grilled cheese sandwich, this soup brings a nostalgic sense of comfort that everyone can enjoy. If you’re a fan of simple yet bold flavors, this recipe is sure to become your go-to for chilly evenings or anytime you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal.

So, if you’re ready to make a batch of the ultimate tomato soup that rivals the one from your favorite cafe, let’s dive into the details of how you can recreate this comforting masterpiece at home.

Corner Bakery Tomato Soup Recipe

This recipe is straightforward, easy to follow, and takes just a little over an hour to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone just learning the ropes in the kitchen, you’ll find that making this soup is an enjoyable experience.

Ingredients Needed

For a rich, creamy, and flavorful tomato soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons

  • Why? Olive oil is great for sautéing and forms the base for many soups. It adds a mild, fruity flavor that complements the tomatoes without overpowering them.

• Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped

  • Why? Onions provide an aromatic sweetness to the soup, balancing the tanginess of the tomatoes. A finely chopped onion ensures it blends smoothly into the soup base.

• Carrot – 1 medium, peeled and chopped

  • Why? Carrots add a slight sweetness and help thicken the soup. Plus, they contribute to the soup’s rich color.

• Celery – 1 stalk, chopped

  • Why? Celery adds a fresh, earthy flavor that deepens the overall taste profile of the soup.

• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced

  • Why? Garlic brings a pungent, aromatic punch that elevates the flavor. It’s a small ingredient with a big impact.

• Canned whole tomatoes – 2 cans (28 ounces each)

  • Why? Canned tomatoes are the heart of the soup. They’re ripe, juicy, and perfect for creating that deep, tomato-rich flavor you crave. Whole tomatoes also break down beautifully as they cook, ensuring a smooth texture.

• Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons

  • Why? Tomato paste deepens the tomato flavor and thickens the soup slightly, giving it a luxurious texture.

• Vegetable broth – 4 cups

  • Why? Vegetable broth serves as the foundation of the soup, enhancing the flavor without competing with the tomatoes.

• Bay leaf – 1

  • Why? Bay leaves add an herbal, slightly floral note that helps balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.

• Heavy cream – 1 cup

  • Why? Heavy cream adds richness, making the soup extra creamy and smooth. It transforms the soup from a simple tomato broth into a luxurious, indulgent dish.

• Salt and pepper – To taste

  • Why? Basic seasonings like salt and pepper bring everything together, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Cooking Instructions

Making this delicious tomato soup is as easy as chopping and simmering. Here’s how you do it:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. You don’t want the garlic to burn, so keep an eye on it.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, letting it cook for about 2 minutes. This step caramelizes the paste and brings out its deep, umami flavor.
4. Add the canned tomatoes (including their juices) and the vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together, and the vegetables become soft and tender.
5. Once the soup is done simmering, remove the bay leaf and discard it.
6. Blend the soup: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or transfer the soup in batches to a blender to purée until smooth. If you want a chunkier texture, blend just halfway. You can also add a little extra broth if the soup is too thick.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and heat the soup for a few more minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot with fresh basil leaves or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.

Ingredient Insights

• Tomatoes: Opting for high-quality canned tomatoes, preferably San Marzano or a similar variety, will elevate your soup. These tomatoes are known for their rich, balanced flavor and low acidity, which results in a smoother, more harmonious soup.
• Heavy Cream: You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but heavy cream truly gives that signature richness. If you prefer dairy-free, coconut milk can provide a similar creamy texture with a slightly different flavor.
• Broth: Using vegetable broth ensures the soup remains vegetarian, but if you’re not concerned about that, chicken broth adds a bit more depth to the soup.

Expert Tips

• Use fresh herbs: While bay leaves are great for flavor, fresh basil, thyme, or oregano can bring a vibrant, herbaceous element to the soup. Add them towards the end of cooking for the freshest flavor.
• Roast the tomatoes: If you’re looking to intensify the flavor, roast the canned tomatoes in the oven with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt before adding them to the soup. This caramelizes the tomatoes and gives them a richer flavor.
• Texture preference: Some prefer a super-smooth soup, while others like a little texture. To achieve the perfect consistency, blend to your liking. You can also reserve a few of the cooked veggies and add them back in after blending for a heartier soup.
• Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice: Sometimes, a touch of acidity can really balance the sweetness of the tomatoes. A small splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice added towards the end of cooking can brighten up the soup.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic. For extra heat, stir in some hot sauce or cayenne pepper right before serving.
2. Roasted Tomato Soup: Instead of using canned tomatoes, roast fresh tomatoes with garlic and olive oil in the oven until they’re caramelized and slightly charred. Blend them into the soup for an even richer flavor.
3. Cheesy Tomato Soup: Stir in grated cheese, like cheddar or Parmesan, when blending the soup. This will add both creaminess and an extra layer of flavor.
4. Vegan Tomato Soup: Simply swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk, and make sure your vegetable broth is vegan. You’ll still get a creamy texture, but with a unique, slightly sweet flavor.

Final Words

This recipe is everything you need in a tomato soup-simple, flavorful, and deeply comforting. It’s perfect for cozy nights in, quick lunches, or even for impressing guests when you want something elegant but easy to prepare. The best part? You can tweak the recipe to suit your tastes, whether you prefer it spicy, cheesy, or with an extra herbaceous kick.