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Let me share a treasured Southern recipe that's been gracing appetizer tables for generations! Rosalynn Carter's Cheese Ring is pure Georgia magic - a savory, creamy cheese ring topped with sweet strawberry preserves. Every time I make it, I think about how this delightful dish made its way from Plains, Georgia, to tables across America. It's one of those recipes that just makes people smile!
Why This Recipe Is Special
You know what makes this appetizer so amazing? It's that unexpected combination of sharp cheese and sweet preserves that gets everyone talking! I love serving this at parties because it's so easy to put together but looks like you spent hours in the kitchen. The best part? It can be made ahead which is perfect when you're hosting!
Let's Gather Our Ingredients
- Fresh pecans we'll toast them to bring out their flavor.
- Sharp cheddar cheese grate it yourself for the best texture.
- Just enough grated onion for that perfect bite.
- Good mayonnaise it makes everything creamy.
- A pinch of cayenne for that Georgia heat.
- Sweet strawberry preserves for that magical topping.
Let's Make It Together
- Start With The Pecans
- Get those pecans toasting your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Mix It Up
- Blend your cheese mayo and seasonings until they're perfectly combined.
- Shape With Love
- This is the fun part forming that beautiful ring.
- Patience Is Key
- Let it chill and set the flavors need time to get friendly.
- The Final Touch
- Add those gorgeous preserves right in the center just before serving.
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Keeping It Fresh
This cheese ring keeps beautifully in the fridge for about 5 days if you can resist it that long! I often make it ahead and just add the preserves right before guests arrive. You can even freeze it without the preserves and thaw it overnight when you need it.
Making It Your Own
Sometimes I switch things up using white cheddar or pepper jack for a different kick. My sister loves using walnuts instead of pecans and pepper jelly is amazing instead of preserves when you want something spicier!
Ways To Serve
I love setting this out with all sorts of crackers and fresh veggies for dipping. Sometimes I'll add some toasted bread rounds too. It's always the first thing to disappear at parties!
A Piece of History
Every time I serve this I love sharing its story from Plains Georgia. It's more than just an appetizer it's a little piece of Southern history that brings people together. There's something so special about sharing these traditional recipes that have stood the test of time!
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why let it sit at room temperature before serving?
Letting it warm slightly makes the cheese softer and easier to spread, while enhancing the flavors.
- → Can I make this ahead?
Yes, it can be made up to 3 days ahead and kept refrigerated. Add preserves just before serving.
- → Why toast the pecans?
Toasting enhances the nuts' flavor and adds crunch. It's worth taking the extra time for better taste.
- → What crackers work best?
Any sturdy cracker works well - water crackers, wheat crackers, or butter crackers are all good choices.
- → Can I use different preserves?
While strawberry is traditional, other fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot can work well too.
Conclusion
Rosalynn Carter's cheese ring is a classic Southern appetizer that blends sharp cheddar cheese with toasted pecans and a hint of cayenne, creating a savory and slightly spicy dish. The ring is traditionally served with sweet strawberry preserves, offering a delightful contrast of flavors perfect for gatherings and parties.