Elegant Cheese Torte

Total Time

Prep: 25 min. + chilling

Makes

24-30 servings

Updated: Oct. 15, 2022
Rich and creamy, this eye-catching torte makes quite an impression. Every time I take it to a party, it receives rave reviews!

Ingredients

  • 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 2 teaspoons coarsely ground pepper
  • 1 jar (5-3/4 ounces) pimiento-stuffed olives, drained and chopped
  • 8 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 3/4 cup apple cider
  • 2-1/4 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
  • Grapes and assorted crackers

Directions

  1. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Remove 3-1/2 cups to a small bowl; stir in pepper and set aside. Fold olives into the remaining cream cheese mixture. Spread evenly over the bottom of a 9-in. springform pan; set aside.
  2. In another large bowl, beat cheddar cheese, cider and paprika on low speed for 1 minute. Beat on high until almost smooth. Spread half over olive layer. Top with peppered cheese mixture. Top with remaining cheddar mixture. Cover with plastic wrap; refrigerate for 6 hours or until firm.
  3. Place on serving plate and remove sides of pan. Press pecans into top; garnish with additional olives or grapes if desired. Serve with crackers.