Serve this stuffed cheese with cocktail bread that has been cut into star shapes or assorted crackers.

Stuffed Gouda or Edam

4-inch star or cookie cutter stencil
1 whole Wisconsin Edam or Gouda (about 2 pounds) at room temperature
1/4 cup softened butter

1/4 cup sherry
Fresh herbs (optional)
Cocktail bread or assorted crackers
Star cookie cutters in various size

1. Using a star cutter or stencil as a guide, cut out a star from top of the Wisconsin Edam or Gouda cheese, lift off wax. (Or slice 1 inch off top of cheese, if preferred.) Scoop out inside of cheese with spoon, leaving a 1/4-inch shell; set shell aside.
2. Coarsely chop cheese. In food processor or blender, combine cheese, butter and sherry. Process until nearly smooth.
3. Pack cheese mixture lightly into shell. Garnish with herbs, if desired.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate until 30 minutes before serving.
5. Cut out star-shaped cocktail bread to serve with spread, if desired.

Makes 2 cups.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Inc.