Pecan Cheese Ring

Ingredients

• 1 lb. extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded (4 cups)
• 1 lb. medium Cheddar cheese, shredded (4 cups)
• 1 small onion, grated
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup strawberry preserves, optional

Directions

Place shredded cheese, onion, mayonnaise and cayenne pepper in large bowl. Stir until well combined. Place 3-inch custard cup upside down in middle of 10-inch spring form pan.
Sprinkle half the pecans in bottom of pan. Spread cheese mixture on top of pecans. Cover with plastic wrap and chill mixture until firm, at least 1 hour.
When ready to serve, unmold cheese ring onto platter and pat remaining pecans onto top and sides of ring. If desired, spoon strawberry preserves in center. Serve with crackers.