Nuts, mayonnaise, cheese, and jam- what an usual combination. I know it sounds strange, but before you rule out this mix of flavors just hear me out. In this cheese dip it actually all works together perfectly! Perhaps this is why First Lady Rosalind Carter and many a housewife loved this recipe. And, I can promise you that once you make Rosalind Carter’s Cheese Ring you’ll want to dig this recipe out for all kinds of parties and events.

Picture a softer version of a cheeseball with a delightful sweetness that balances each bite and you’ll have something close to this tasty cheese ring. I grew up with cheeseballs and they were always so hard so the thought of one you can actually dip into appealed to me. And I was not disappointed!

This recipe was release by the National Archives and is also known as the “Plains Special” cheese ring. But, it was noted to be a favorite of hers so I think it’s only fitting to keep her name in the title.

To mix this up is the easy part and I used the food processor with the mixing blade instead of the chopping blade to simplify the process. But, de-molding is probably the hardest aspect of this recipe.

If your cheese ring doesn’t come out right away you can dip it into some warm water to help it loosen and it should release more easily.

Fill the center of the ring with strawberry preserves (or the jam or jelly of your choice) for a nice mix of flavors. I could see hot pepper, raspberry, or cranberry working well with this cheese ring.

The fruit flavor with nuts and cheese is a winning combination! Serve with crackers or bread for an appetizer that makes any occasion instantly feel (and taste) more festive. For decades folks have been enjoying this easy-to-make recipe and once you taste it you’ll see why.