BLUE CHEESE BREAD

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
8 ounces blue cheese
2 French bread baguettes or 4 sourdough flutes (2 pounds total), halved lengthwise
Chopped celery tops

Blend butter and cheese in processor until smooth.*

Preheat broiler.

Broil bread crust side up until crisp. Turn and broil cut side until light brown.

Spread cheese mixture over cut side of bread. Sprinkle liberally with pepper.

Broil until cheese bubbles and begins to brown.

Remove from broiler and sprinkle bread with celery. Cut crosswise into 1-inch pieces.

*Cheese mixture may be prepared 2 days ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before using.

Servings: 12