Description
This Pecan Cheddar Cheese Ring with Strawberry Preserves is a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors, perfect for any party or holiday gathering. It features a creamy mixture of sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and mayonnaise, seasoned with a hint of garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper. The cheese ring is coated with toasted pecans for added crunch and filled with strawberry preserves, creating a beautiful contrast of flavors and textures. Whether served with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh veggies, this appetizer is a showstopper that combines visual appeal with delicious taste.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup softened cream cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- ¾ to 1 cup toasted and finely chopped pecans
- 1 cup strawberry preserves
Instructions
- Mix Cheese Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, and mayonnaise. Blend until smooth and creamy. - Season the Mixture:
Add the garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if desired). Mix well to incorporate the seasoning evenly. - Shape into a Ring:
Transfer the cheese mixture onto a serving dish. Shape the mixture into a ring with a hollow center using your hands or a spatula. For a cleaner presentation, you can use a small bowl or mold to create the hollow center, then remove it. - Toast and Chop Pecans:
Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden brown and fragrant. Let them cool slightly before finely chopping. Press the chopped pecans onto the outside of the cheese ring, ensuring an even coating. - Add Strawberry Preserves:
Spoon the strawberry preserves into the hollow center of the cheese ring. Make sure the preserves are evenly spread and fill the entire center for a bright and appealing presentation. - Chill:
Cover the cheese ring with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the ring to firm up. - Serve:
Serve chilled with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks. Enjoy!
Notes
- Make-Ahead: This dish can be made up to a day in advance. Simply assemble the cheese ring, coat it with pecans, and refrigerate. Add the strawberry preserves just before serving for the best presentation.
- Customizations:
- You can easily swap out cheddar for another cheese like Pepper Jack for a spicier flavor, or smoked Gouda for a smoky, rich taste.
- Pecans are the traditional choice, but feel free to use walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
- Strawberry preserves are classic, but apricot, raspberry, or fig preserves also work wonderfully.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cheese mixture can be repurposed as a sandwich spread or added to scrambled eggs for a delicious breakfast option.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar or swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to cut down on fat without losing creaminess.