Strawberry Jam Cheese Ring
Chef Ashley McMakin, Ashley Mac’s in Birmingham, AL
“The Strawberry Jam Cheese Ring is one of my all time favorite appetizers to make — and eat,” says Chef Ashley McMakin of Ashley Mac’s in Birmingham, AL. “I love the sweet and savory combination, not to mention the beautiful presentation. It’s always a crowd pleaser!” Her version of this Southern classic is made with sharp cheddar cheese and includes toasted pecans. We love it because it’s both delicious and easy to prepare.
The Strawberry Jam Cheese Ring is a go-to party dish for Chef Ashley McMakin of Ashley Mac’s in Birmingham, AL. Image: Huckleberry Collective
Strawberry Jam Cheese Ring
Author: Chef Ashley McMakin, Ashley Mac's in Birmingham, AL
Recipe type: Appetizer
Serves: 8-10
Ingredients
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 (8-oz.) blocks sharp Cheddar cheese, finely grated
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves
- Assorted crackers
- Garnishes: chopped toasted pecans, fresh strawberries, strawberry flowers
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Bake the pecans in a single layer in a shallow pan for 8 to 10 minutes, or until toasted and fragrant, stirring halfway through. Cool 15 minutes.
- Stir together the mayonnaise, hot sauce and garlic clove.
- Stir in the pecans and cheese.
- Spoon the mixture into a plastic wrap-lined 4-cup ring mold with a 2 1/2-inch center.
- Cover and chill 2 hours.
- Unmold the cheese ring onto a serving platter. Discard the plastic wrap.
- Fill the center of the ring with preserves. Serve with crackers. Garnish, if desired.
Bon appétit!
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