Cheese Roll

When I was a kid my great aunt Margaret would serve this with crackers before dinner. All the adults raved about it and I was not impressed. Then I grew up and tried it again and changed my mind – it’s delicious! Prep time includes chilling time. NOTE: It’s very important that the cheeses be at room temperature. They won’t mix properly if they are cold.

• Ready In: 2 hrs 15 mins
• Serves: 32

Ingredients

• 1  lb  new york state sharp cheddar cheese, at room temperature
• 1 (3 ounce) package cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1⁄2 cup  chopped pecans
• 2  fresh garlic cloves, peeled
•  chili powder

Directions

1. Finely mince garlic or put through a garlic press.
2. Coarsely grate cheddar cheese.
3. Combine all ingredients except chili powder.
4. Knead mixture by hand or process in a food processor until mixture is homogenous.
5. Shape into a roll or flattened ball.
6. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill until firm.
7. Unwrap and roll in chili powder.
8. Rewrap and refrigerate several hours or overnight to allow flavors to blend.
9. Slice with a sharp knife and serve with crackers.