1 c. low calorie cranberry juice
2 tsp. each cornstarch and freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tsp. each granulated sugar and vanilla extract
Dash each ground allspice and ground cinnamon
15 lg. pitted fresh or thawed, frozen cherries, no sugar added, halved
1 tbsp. cherry flavored liqueur
2 tsp. half and half, (blend of milk and cream)

In small microwaveable mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except cherries, liqueur, and half and half and stir to dissolve cornstarch. Microwave on high (100% power) for 3 minutes, stirring halfway through cooking until mixture thickens slightly. Add cherries and liqueur and stir to combine, microwave on high for 1 minutes until thoroughly heated. Let stand for 2 minutes until flavors blend.

To serve ladle soup into 2 soup bowl and pour 1 teaspoon half and half over each portions of soup; using a toothpick swirl to create a decorative pattern.