Get ready to wow your guests with the most irresistible appetizer that will have everyone asking for the recipe! This JA Cheese Ring is not just another boring cheese spread – it's a creamy, tangy, and surprisingly elegant dish that transforms ordinary party snacks into a gourmet experience. Imagine a smooth blend of cream cheese and cheddar, studded with fresh green onions and bell peppers, topped with a vibrant swirl of strawberry preserves that adds a perfect sweet-savory twist. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated brunch, a casual game night, or a fancy cocktail party, this cheese ring is your secret weapon to instant culinary fame.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves
- Crackers for serving
Instructions
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, particularly the cream cheese to achieve smooth blending.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise. Mix thoroughly using an electric mixer or sturdy whisk until the mixture becomes smooth and well-integrated.
- Finely chop green onions and bell peppers, ensuring uniform small pieces for even distribution throughout the cheese mixture.
- Fold the chopped green onions and bell peppers into the cheese mixture, stirring gently to maintain the mixture's creamy consistency.
- Prepare a ring mold or a circular serving dish. If using a traditional ring mold, lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to ensure easy removal.
- Transfer the cheese mixture into the prepared ring mold, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
- Carefully spread the strawberry preserves over the top of the cheese mixture, creating an attractive and flavorful topping.
- Cover the cheese ring with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and mixture to set.
- Before serving, remove from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly.
- Serve with an assortment of crackers, allowing guests to spread the cheese ring onto crackers as desired.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Allow all ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.
- Blend with Care: Use an electric mixer for the smoothest possible consistency, taking care not to overmix.
- Chop Finely: Ensure green onions and bell peppers are uniformly and finely chopped for even distribution.
- Chill for Flavor: The refrigeration step is crucial – it allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the cheese ring sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance its spreadability.
- Cracker Pairing: Choose a variety of crackers to offer guests different textures and flavors for spreading.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, making it perfect for stress-free entertaining.
- Presentation Matters: Use a beautiful serving dish or ring mold to elevate the visual appeal of your appetizer.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 80mg
