1 lb sharp cheddar cheese
1 c chopped pecans
1 c mayonnaise
1 small onion, grated
1/4 t ground black pepper
1/8 t cayenne pepper
Lightly toast the pecans in an oven at 350º or in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant. Let cool. Set aside 2 tablespoons of pecans for garnish. Grate the cheese. Combine all ingredients. Turn the mixture out onto a board or serving plate. Using your hands, shape into a ring. Place preserves in the center of the ring. Sprinkle with the reserved pecans. Serve with crackers. May be made ahead and refrigerated. Keeps well for a few days in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Recipe Credited to:
Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter
Option: Substitute any flavor of Emily G’s Jam