Combine broth and tomatoes in a medium saucepan over moderate heat. When soup bubbles, stir in heavy cream and reduce heat to low. Season with a little salt and pepper and simmer gently 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. With an immersion blender, puree soup.
Serve bowls of soup with basil chiffonade and floating Soup Toppers.
Toast bread slices in your toaster until golden. Rub the toasted bread rounds with crushed garlic, if using. Arrange bread on cookie or baking sheet.
Drizzle each slice with extra-virgin oil and top with a grind of black pepper and a layer of shredded cheese.
Place under hot broiler to melt cheese until toppers are golden brown in color.
