Softening Tips

• Lumpy brown or white sugar: Heat in microwave with a cup of boiling water.
• Cream cheese: Remove foil; heat 8-ounce package 2 minutes on low.
• Butter or margarine: Remove foil; heat 1 stick for 1 minute on low.
• Raisins in hot water: Heat 2 to 3 minutes on high; let stand 2 minutes.
• Acorn squash: Cook 1 1/2 minutes on high to cut in half easier.
• Citrus fruit: Heat 15 to 20 seconds before squeezing to get more juice.
• Honey that has sugared.
• Almond bark: Heat 1 pound for 2 minutes on medium; stir, then cook 30 to 60 seconds more, stirring.
• Chocolate: Heat 1-ounce square for 2 to 3 minutes on low.