This elegant no-bake torta is a show-stopping appetizer that balances the creamy richness of softened cream cheese with the sharp bite of Vermont cheddar. Fresh sage leaves provide an aromatic, herbal backbone, while toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch and nutty depth. The layering technique creates a beautiful visual presentation, making it perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or as a sophisticated starter for a vegetarian meal. It requires no cooking, just careful assembly and chilling time to set. Serve with crackers or crostini for a memorable bite that feels both rustic and refined.
Cheddar Sage & Walnut Torta
Description
This elegant no-bake torta is a show-stopping appetizer that balances the creamy richness of softened cream cheese with the sharp bite of Vermont cheddar. Fresh sage leaves provide an aromatic, herbal backbone, while toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch and nutty depth. The layering technique creates a beautiful visual presentation, making it perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or as a sophisticated starter for a vegetarian meal. It requires no cooking, just careful assembly and chilling time to set. Serve with crackers or crostini for a memorable bite that feels both rustic and refined.Ingredients
Directions
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Place the softened cream cheese and chopped fresh sage leaves into a food processor.
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Pulse until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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Line a 2-cup mold with a double thickness of cheesecloth, letting the ends hang over the sides.
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Arrange whole sage leaves in a decorative pattern on the bottom of the lined mold.
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Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the sage leaves in the mold.
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Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the cream cheese layer, pressing it down gently.
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Add the chopped walnuts in an even layer over the cheese, pressing lightly to compact.
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Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the walnuts, smoothing the top.
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Fold the overhanging ends of the cheesecloth over the top of the mixture and press lightly to shape.
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Refrigerate the mold overnight to allow the torta to set firmly.
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When ready to serve, unfold the top of the cheesecloth.
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Place a serving plate upside down over the mold and quickly flip both over together.
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Lift off the mold and carefully peel away the cheesecloth.
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Garnish the top of the torta with whole walnut halves before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 229.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20.8g32%
- Saturated Fat 12.2g61%
- Cholesterol 49.4mg17%
- Sodium 184.0mg8%
- Total Carbohydrate 8.8g3%
- Dietary Fiber 4.5g18%
- Sugars 1.0g
- Protein 4.6g10%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.