Blue Cheese Spread

Name: Blue Cheese Spread
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 3 cups.
Ingredients: 3 shallots, finely chopped; 2 teaspoons butter; 2 cups (8 ounces) crumbled blue cheese; 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons Cognac or brandy; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon white pepper; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted; Assorted crackers

When entertaining during the holidays it's nice to have make-ahead recipes like this. Crunchy toasted walnuts complement the creamy spread. —Carole Bess White, Portland, Oregon

Ingredients

3 shallots, finely chopped
2 teaspoons butter
2 cups (8 ounces) crumbled blue cheese
2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons Cognac or brandy
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
Assorted crackers

Directions

In a small skillet, saute shallots in butter until tender. Remove from the heat; cool.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the cheeses, sour cream, Cognac, salt and pepper. Add shallots and mix well. Line a 3-cup bowl with plastic wrap. Spread cheese mixture into prepared bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Unmold onto a serving plate; garnish with walnuts. Serve with crackers.