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.

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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

Chef Ashley McMakin, Ashley Mac's in Birmingham, AL
This combination of sweet and salty is the perfect easy appetizer.
5 from 1 vote
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Course Appetizer
Servings 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.
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Bon appétit!

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