California Monterey Jack And Blue Cheese Log

Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins Preparation Time: 15 mins Cook Time: 2 hrs

Ingredients

• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 -3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8-1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 8 ounces grated monterey jack cheese (2 cups)
• 8 ounces crumbled blue cheese (2 cups)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 2/3 cup coarsely crushed rye crackers

Recipe

• 1 in a large bowl, or in a food processor, combine the cream cheese, garlic, salt and cayenne; beat or process until blended and smooth; add the monterey jack and blue cheeses and walnuts and beat vigorously until the ingredients are evenly mixed- if you're using a food processor, be care to not overmix, the cheese should keep some of its texture; at this point, refrigerate the mixture for 2 hours.
• 2 spread the rye cracker crumbs on a large plate or sheet of waxed paper; dampen your hands with water to keep the cheese mixture from sticking to them; divide the cheese mixture in half, then pat and press each half into a log about 3 inches across; don't worry about keeping the shape perfect.
• 3 roll each log in the cracker crumbs, pressing gently so the crackers stick; wrap each cheese log separately in plastic wrap and chill until serving time.
• 4 serve with crackers, breadsticks or bagel chips.