Description
Pecan cheddar cheese ring showcases Southern hospitality on a delectable platter of creamy cheese and nutty crunch. Crimson strawberry preserves drizzled across this elegant appetizer promise a perfect balance of savory and sweet that will delight guests at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups (473 ml) finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (227 g) softened cream cheese
- 3/4 to 1 cup (180–240 ml) toasted and finely chopped pecans
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
Serving Accompaniment:
- 1 cup (340 g) strawberry preserves
Instructions
- Blend the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and mayonnaise in a large mixing bowl until the texture is smooth and uniform, eliminating any lumps.
- Incorporate garlic powder, paprika, and a hint of cayenne pepper, stirring thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the cheese mixture.
- Carefully mold the cheese blend onto a serving platter, sculpting it into a circular shape with a distinctive hollow center reserved for preserves.
- Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat, gently stirring to achieve a golden-brown color and release their aromatic oils, taking care not to burn them.
- Allow the toasted pecans to cool slightly, then finely chop them to create a textured coating.
- Delicately press the chopped pecans around the exterior of the cheese ring, ensuring complete and consistent coverage.
- Gently fill the center of the ring with strawberry preserves, maintaining a neat and precise presentation.
- Refrigerate the completed cheese ring for a minimum of one hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
- Serve alongside an assortment of crisp crackers, lightly toasted baguette slices, or fresh seasonal vegetables for an elegant appetizer experience.
Notes
- Carefully select high-quality cheddar cheese for robust flavor and creamy texture.
- Toast pecans gently to enhance their nutty aroma without burning, releasing deeper, richer taste profiles.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise for a smoother, more luxurious consistency that holds shape better.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity based on personal spice preference, allowing customizable heat levels for different palates.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg