(although it can be made ANY time!)

1 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese (preferably a sharp cheddar) (measure after shredding, but pack it down in the measuring cup)
1 cup finely chopped pecans (measure after chopping)
1 (8 oz) pkg softened cream cheese (the brick kind, not the soft kind in the tub)
1/2 cup finely chopped green onions (you can use up to an inch of the stem)
1 small jar jalapeno jelly

combine all the ingredients except the jalapeno jelly. pack them into a small round mold, or form a ball and flatten it to resemble a hockey puck.

chill the cheese round for at least 2 hours. (overnight or even over several days is fine too.)

when you’re ready to serve, place the cheese round on a pretty serving plate. heat the jalapeno jelly in the microwave for a few seconds until you can stir it smooth. then spoon approximately 1/4 cup# over the top of the cheese round, letting it drip down the side and puddle on the plate. accompany it with a basket of crackers or cocktail bread, and enjoy.

one cheese round should serve as an appetizer for 6 to 8 people.