Brie Torte (make ahead appetizer using dried cherries and pecans)

This tasty appetizer is easy to transport to parties and makes a great hostess gift.

1 (15- to 16-ounce) wheel Brie cheese
1/3 cup butter, softened
1/3 cup chopped dried tart cherries
1/4 cup finely chopped pecans
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh thyme)
Crackers

Refrigerate Brie until chilled and firm; or freeze 30 minutes, or until firm. Cut Brie in half horizontally.

Combine butter, cherries, pecans and thyme in a small bowl; mix well. Evenly spread mixture on cut-side of one piece of the Brie. Top with the other piece, cut- side down. Lightly press together. Wrap in plastic wrap; refrigerate 1 to 2 hours.

To serve, cut into serving size wedges and bring to room temperature. Serve with crackers.

Note: If wrapped securely in plastic wrap, this appetizer will keep in the refrigerator for at least a week.

Makes about 20 appetizer servings
Source: Cherry Marketing Institute