Parmesan Pine Cone

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 325F.
2. 2
   Spread almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. 3
   Toast in oven, shaking pan once or twice, until almonds are lightly browned, 7 to 10 minutes.
4. 4
   Cool.
5. 5
   In a medium bowl or in a food processor, combine cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, oregano, and garlic.
6. 6
   Blend until well mixed.
7. 7
   Pack into a crock large enough to hold the spread.
8. 8
   Refrigerate until firm but still pliable, about 1 hour.
9. 9
   If you want to get fancy, you can place cheese mixture on a serving board or platter and form into shape of a pine cone.
10. 10
    Stud top with toasted slivered almonds to complete illusion.
11. 11
    Or just stud the spread with the almonds and serve straight out of the crock with crackers (like I do).