Fruit-Cheese Log

 

3/4

cup finely chopped pecans

1

package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

2

ounces Muenster cheese, shredded (1/2 cup)

1/3

cup shredded fresh Parmesan cheese

1/2

cup Cheddar cold-pack cheese food (from 8-ounce container), softened

1/2

cup chopped dried apricots

1/4

cup chopped dried figs

1/4

cup chopped dried cranberries

Crackers, if desired

• 1 Line square pan, 8x8x2 inches, with 16-inch piece of waxed paper, leaving ends overhanging. Spread pecans evenly over waxed paper in bottom of pan; set aside. Beat cream cheese, Muenster cheese and Parmesan cheese in medium bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until well mixed. Spoon cheese mixture over pecans, using teaspoon; spread evenly. Spoon Cheddar cheese food over cream cheese layer, using teaspoon; spread evenly. Sprinkle with dried fruits; press in lightly.
• 2 Lift ends of waxed paper to remove cheese mixture from pan and place on smooth surface. Roll up cheese mixture, jelly-roll style. (If cheese is too soft to roll, return to pan and refrigerate about 20 minutes or until firm.) Wrap cheese log in waxed paper; place in resealable plastic food-storage bag. Refrigerate about 30 minutes or until firm. Serve with crackers.