Zesty Monterey Jack Cheese Rolls
These Zesty Monterey Jack Cheese Rolls are a delightful twist on classic cheese spreads that are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a cherished homemade gift. Blending rich cream cheese with a kick from Worcestershire sauce and ground red pepper, this creamy mixture is then complemented by the bold flavors of extra-sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheeses. Rolled in a savory pecan and parsley crust, these logs are not only a feast for the palate but also a colorful addition to any appetizer platter. Prepare them in advance to reduce stress during the holiday rush; they can be frozen and are easy to thaw for a quick and impressive snack. Originally created by Charles Flournoy of Dallas, TX, for the Christmas with Southern Living 2004 cookbook, they are bound to become a holiday favorite in your home!
N/A
Servings
75
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
cream cheese
8 ounces (softened)
Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon
ground red pepper
1/4 teaspoon
extra-sharp cheddar cheese
10 ounces (shredded)
Monterey jack pepper cheese
8 ounces (shredded)
pecans or walnuts
1 cup (chopped and toasted)
fresh parsley
1/2 cup (chopped)
fresh parsley sprig
(for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and ground red pepper. Blend until smooth and well incorporated.
2
Add the shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese and Monterey jack pepper cheese to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
3
Divide the cheese mixture into two equal portions and shape each portion into an 8-inch log on a sheet of wax paper.
4
In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped pecans (or walnuts) and chopped fresh parsley. Roll each cheese log in the nut and parsley mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
5
Wrap the logs tightly in wax paper or heavy-duty plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld. For longer storage, you can freeze the logs.
6
When ready to serve, let the cheese rolls sit at room temperature for about 1 hour before slicing. Serve with a variety of crackers and garnish with additional parsley sprigs if desired.
Nutrition Information
5.65g
Fat
1.8g
Carbs
2.4g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zesty Monterey Jack Cheese Rolls?
They are a delightful twist on classic cheese spreads made with cream cheese, extra-sharp cheddar, and pepper jack cheese, rolled in a pecan and parsley crust.
Who is the original creator of this recipe?
The recipe was originally created by Charles Flournoy of Dallas, TX.
In which cookbook was this recipe first published?
It was created for the Christmas with Southern Living 2004 cookbook.
How many cheese logs does this recipe make?
The recipe makes two equal portions shaped into 8-inch logs.
What types of cheese are required for this recipe?
You will need cream cheese, extra-sharp cheddar cheese, and Monterey jack pepper cheese.
What ingredients provide the 'zesty' flavor?
The zest comes from the combination of Worcestershire sauce, ground red pepper, and Monterey jack pepper cheese.
How much cream cheese is needed?
The recipe requires 8 ounces of softened cream cheese.
What is the coating for the cheese rolls?
The logs are rolled in a mixture of chopped pecans (or walnuts) and chopped fresh parsley.
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, the recipe allows for either 1 cup of chopped and toasted pecans or walnuts.
How long should the cheese rolls refrigerate before serving?
They should be refrigerated for at least 8 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Can these cheese rolls be frozen?
Yes, the logs can be frozen for longer storage and easily thawed for a quick snack.
What is the best way to serve these rolls?
Let them sit at room temperature for about 1 hour before slicing and serve with a variety of crackers.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 75 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 5.65g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in each serving?
There are 1.8g of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving contains 2.4g of protein.
How much ground red pepper should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of ground red pepper.
What amount of extra-sharp cheddar cheese is needed?
You will need 10 ounces of shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese.
How much Monterey jack pepper cheese is required?
The recipe requires 8 ounces of shredded Monterey jack pepper cheese.
Should the cream cheese be softened?
Yes, the cream cheese should be softened to ensure it blends smoothly with the other ingredients.
What is the recommended garnish?
You can garnish the platter with additional fresh parsley sprigs.
How much Worcestershire sauce is used?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce.
How much fresh parsley is needed for the coating?
You need 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients in total.
Is this recipe suitable for holiday gifting?
Yes, it is described as a perfect cherished homemade gift for the holidays.
What should I use to wrap the logs?
Wrap the logs tightly in wax paper or heavy-duty plastic wrap.
What is the preparation for the nuts?
The pecans or walnuts should be chopped and toasted before being used for the coating.
Should the cheddar and Monterey jack be shredded?
Yes, both the cheddar and Monterey jack pepper cheese should be shredded before mixing.
What type of bowl should be used for mixing?
A large mixing bowl is recommended to combine the cheeses and seasonings.
Are there any specific tags for this recipe?
Tags include cheese spread, holiday appetizer, cheese logs, savory spread, and party food.