Pecan Cheddar Cheese Ring with Strawberry Preserves Recipe
Introduction
This Pecan Cheddar Cheese Ring with Strawberry Preserves is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines sharp cheddar, crunchy pecans, and a sweet, fruity center. It’s perfect for parties or holiday gatherings and pairs wonderfully with crackers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, grated
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Strawberry preserves
Instructions
- Step 1: Toast the pecans in a large skillet over medium-high heat until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from the skillet to cool. Set aside a few tablespoons for garnish if you like.
- Step 2: Shred the cheddar cheese and place it in a large mixing bowl. Add the grated onion, mayonnaise, cayenne pepper, and the toasted pecans. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Step 3: Spoon the cheese mixture onto a serving plate and shape it into a ring. Use a rubber spatula to help form the shape if needed. Cover the cheese ring with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Step 4: Remove the cheese ring from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving. Just before serving, sprinkle the reserved pecans over the top and spoon strawberry preserves into the center of the ring. Serve with crackers.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder flavor, use a medium cheddar instead of sharp.
- Make sure to grate the onion finely to blend well without large chunks.
- Try using different preserves like raspberry or apricot for a unique twist.
- If you don’t have a lot of time, chilling the cheese ring for 1 hour can work in a pinch, but 2 hours is best for firm results.
Storage
Store the cheese ring covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Serve at room temperature for best flavor, and add fresh preserves just before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the cheese ring ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just add the preserves and garnish right before serving for the freshest taste.
What can I serve with the Pecan Cheddar Cheese Ring?
It’s delicious with a variety of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots.
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Pecan Cheddar Cheese Ring with Strawberry Preserves Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Description
This Pecan Cheddar Cheese Ring with Strawberry Preserves is a delicious and crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for parties or gatherings. It combines sharp cheddar cheese, toasted pecans, and a hint of cayenne pepper, creating a flavorful cheese mixture shaped into a ring and served with sweet strawberry preserves and crackers. The combination of creamy, savory, nutty, and sweet elements makes it irresistible.
Ingredients
Cheese Ring
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 small onion, grated
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
To Serve
- Strawberry preserves, for the center
- Crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Toast Pecans: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and toast the chopped pecans until fragrant and slightly browned, about 3-5 minutes while stirring frequently. Remove from skillet and let cool, reserving a few tablespoons for garnish.
- Mix Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese with the grated onion, mayonnaise, cayenne pepper, and the toasted pecans. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated into a cohesive mixture.
- Shape the Cheese Ring: Transfer the cheese mixture onto a serving plate and shape it into a ring using a rubber spatula or your hands, making sure it is evenly formed. Cover the ring with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to set and flavors to meld.
- Prepare to Serve: Remove the cheese ring from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving so it can soften slightly. Just before serving, sprinkle the reserved toasted pecans on top of the cheese ring and spoon strawberry preserves into the center of the ring.
- Serve: Present the cheese ring with a selection of crackers and enjoy as a flavorful appetizer that combines savory cheddar with sweet preserves and crunchy nuts.
Notes
- Grating the onion finely helps avoid large chunks and distributes its flavor evenly in the cheese mixture.
- Allowing the cheese ring to chill helps it firm up so it holds its shape when served.
- Substitute strawberry preserves with other fruit jams such as raspberry or apricot for a different flavor profile.
- Ensure pecans are not burnt during toasting, as this can create bitterness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pecan cheddar cheese ring, cheese ring recipe, appetizer, party food, cheese and nuts, strawberry preserves, savory cheese spread
