Description
Rosalynn Carter's Cheese Ring is a classic, creamy cheddar cheese appetizer blended with crunchy nuts and flavorful seasonings. Chilled to perfection and traditionally served with strawberry preserves and crackers or bread, this cheese ring offers a rich, savory-sweet bite that's perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
Cheese Ring Ingredients
- 1 lb sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup pecans or walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small onion, grated
- Black pepper, to taste
- Dash cayenne pepper
- 6 oz strawberry preserves, optional
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the grated sharp cheddar cheese, finely chopped pecans or walnuts, mayonnaise, grated onion, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until evenly mixed.
- Mold the Cheese Ring: Pour the cheese mixture into a 5-cup ring mold and use a rubber spatula to level the surface, ensuring the mixture is compact and evenly spread.
- Refrigerate: Cover the mold tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours or overnight to allow the cheese ring to set firmly.
- Unmold the Cheese Ring: Remove the plastic wrap, then place a serving plate or platter over the top of the mold. Flip both the mold and plate together carefully while applying gentle pressure to keep the cheese ring intact. If the ring does not release easily, set the mold in a pan of warm water for about 5 minutes to loosen the edges, then unmold again.
- Add Preserves and Serve: Pour strawberry preserves into the center cavity of the cheese ring before serving. Accompany with crackers or bread. The preserves are optional, and the cheese ring can also be shaped into other forms, such as a ball, if preferred.
Notes
- This cheese ring is best served chilled for a firm texture and enhanced flavor.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts depending on your preference or availability.
- Strawberry preserves add a sweet contrast to the savory cheese but can be omitted if desired.
- When unmolding, warming the outer edges with warm water helps release the cheese ring without breaking it.
- The cheese ring can be molded into different shapes like a ball if a ring mold is not available.
- Prep Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American Southern
