Cheese Board with Cherry Jam and Candied Pecans

1. For candied pecans, combine pecan halves and corn syrup in small saucepan over low heat.  Simmer 10 to 15 minutes. 

2. Prepare sheet pan with parchment paper sprayed with cooking spray.  Preheat oven to 250 F. Drain pecans and transfer to prepared pan, spreading so that pecans are in single layer and not touching.  Bake until hard, like glass, approximately 15 to 20 minutes.  Transfer pecans to a cooling rack until completely cooled and not sticky.  Store in airtight container until ready to serve.

3. For cherry jam, combine dried cherries, water, brown sugar and pinch kosher salt in small saucepan over medium heat.  Cook until reduced by half, approximately 30 minutes. 

4. Transfer jam to a food processor and pulse until slightly chunky. Transfer to a container to cool completely.  Store refrigerated until ready to use.

5. Brush pretzel roll slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake at 350F until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes.

6. Arrange cheeses on board or platter. Arrange grapes, pecans and green apple in middle;  arrange toasted pretzel slices, mustard and cherry jam on top third.

Photo courtesy of California Milk Advisory Board