La Madeleine Tomato Basil Soup

4 cups tomatoes (8 to 10), peeled, cored and chopped, or 4 cups whole tomatoes, crushed
4 cups unsalted tomato juice
12 to 14 fresh basil leaves
1 cup whipping cream
1/2 cup sweet unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
Salt, to taste

Combine tomatoes and juice in saucepan. Simmer for 30 minutes over medium low heat. Cool slightly, then place in blender.

Add basil and process to pur�e. This will have to be done in batches. Return mixture to saucepan. Add butter and cream.

Stir over low heat until butter and cream are incorporated. Stir in salt and pepper before serving.