Microwave Cherries Jubilee
A flamboyant dessert featuring heated cherry filling flambéed with brandy, served over vanilla ice cream, offering a rich blend of fruity, citrus, and boozy flavors perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cherry pie filling, jelly, orange rind, and rum in a mixing bowl, stirring to blend.
- Pour the mixture into an oblong baking dish and microwave on Medium-high for 5 to 6 minutes, or until heated through.
- Measure the brandy in a 1-cup glass measuring cup and microwave on High for 15 to 20 seconds, or until warm.
- Pour the warmed brandy over the cherry mixture and ignite carefully to flambé.
- Once the flame has extinguished, spoon the cherry jubilee over vanilla ice cream in individual serving dishes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling. You can also substitute the rum and brandy with other spirits like bourbon or whiskey, which will give a different but delightful taste. If flambéing makes you nervous, simply stir the warm brandy into the mixture instead. Ensure your microwave is powerful enough for even heating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cherries jubilee warm over scoops of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert experience. This dish pairs beautifully with Aunt Inez's Sugar Cookies for a delightful contrast of textures. Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra crunch or serving alongside a light dessert wine for a more sophisticated touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cherries jubilee can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring gently, until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly when serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Cherries Jubilee contains roughly 288 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used. Just pit and slice them, then cook them with the jelly and orange rind until they soften. This will provide a fresher flavor and a more natural sweetness.
Is it necessary to flambé the brandy?
While flambéing adds a dramatic flair and enhances the flavor, it is not strictly necessary. You can mix the warmed brandy into the cherry mixture without igniting it for a safer option, though the flambé does create a unique taste.
What other ice cream flavors work well with this dessert?
Besides vanilla, consider pairing the cherries jubilee with chocolate or even a creamy almond ice cream. The flavors will complement the cherries beautifully, creating a deliciously indulgent dessert experience.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).