Cherry Sauce (Microwave)

• uick and easy: prepared entirely in the microwave in under five minutes.

• Flexible sweetness: you can adjust sugar to suit your taste or cherry sweetness.

• Minimal cleanup: made in one microwave‑safe bowl with only a spoon to stir.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cherries (fresh pitted or frozen)

• Granulated sugar

• Lemon juice

• Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

• Water (optional, for adjusting consistency)

directions

1. Place pitted cherries (fresh or frozen) in a microwave‑safe bowl.

2. Add sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice; stir to combine.

3. If desired, dissolve cornstarch in a small amount of water and add to cherries.

4. Microwave on high for 1 minute.

5. Remove, stir carefully.

6. Microwave in 30‑second intervals, stirring between intervals, until sauce thickens and cherries are soft. Usually 2–3 minutes total heat.

7. Let sit for a minute; sauce will thicken slightly while cooling.

Servings and timing

• Makes approximately 1 cup of sauce.

• Serves about 4 portions (¼ cup each).

• Prep and cook time: roughly 5 minutes total.

Variations

• Spiced version: add a dash of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg.

• Vanilla cherry sauce: stir in a few drops of vanilla extract after cooking.

• Boozy adult twist: stir in a splash of amaretto or kirsch post‑microwave.

• Lower‑sugar option: use honey or maple syrup in place of some or all granulated sugar.

• Fruit mix: combine cherries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries.

storage/reheating

Store the cooled sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave desired portion for 20–30 seconds or until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much in storage, stir in a little warm water or juice to loosen before serving.

FAQs

What kind of cherries should I use?

You can use fresh or frozen pitted cherries. Frozen often work better for consistency and flavor as they soften easily.

Can I make this sauce without sugar?

Yes. Substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup, or omit entirely for a very tart result.

Can I thicken the sauce without cornstarch?

Yes. Simply simmer longer in the microwave (in short intervals), draining some juice if necessary until desired thickness.

How do I store leftover sauce?

Keep in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze cherry sauce?

Yes. Freeze in a freezer‑safe container or ice cube tray for up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge overnight before use.

Is this sauce suitable for topping breakfast dishes?

Absolutely. It pairs well with pancakes, waffles, yogurt, oats, or toast.

Can I add lemon zest or orange zest?

Yes. A small amount of zest added after cooking brightens the flavor.

Is it gluten‑free?

Yes, if using cornstarch, note that cornstarch is naturally gluten‑free; just check if your brand is certified gluten‑free.

Can I make a larger batch?

Yes. Simply multiply ingredients and use a larger microwave‑safe bowl; stir more often during cooking.

How thick should the sauce be?

Aim for a consistency similar to warmed jelly: thick enough to coat a spoon but still pourable.

Conclusion

This microwave cherry sauce is a quick, versatile, and delightful addition to many desserts and breakfasts. Whether you prefer it tart or sweet, spiced or plain, it delivers vibrant cherry flavor in just minutes with minimal fuss

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