You can’t go wrong when you bring this appetizer to any bring a dish to pass
Serve at your summer Celebration. Cheddar and Bacon is everybody’s favorite
Great for a Happy Hour with friends make ahead and enjoy
1 pound extra sharp cheddar cheese*, finely shredded
28 ounce package reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchatel)
12 ounce jar sliced pimento, rinsed, drained, patted dry, and chopped
1/4 cup apricot preserves
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon bottled hot pepper sauce
8 – 10 slice bacon, crisp cooked and crumbled
1/3 cup pistachio nuts, chopped
Celery stalks, cucumber slices, apricot halves, and/or toasted baguette slices
In a very large bowl combine cheddar and cream cheese; let stand to come to room temperature (about 45 minutes).
Add pimientos, apricot preserves, milk, Worcestershire, hot pepper sauce and about 1/2 of the cooked bacon. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until almost smooth.
Cover and chill cheese mixture (and cooked bacon) 2 hours or until easy to handle. Divide 1 inch balls on waxed paper Cover and chill. Roll in bacon bits or pistachios within 4 hours of serving.