Bunco Blue Cheese Spread With Pecan-and-Bacon Topping

Stir together first 3 ingredients in a medium bowl until blended. Stir in green onions, red pepper, and garlic powder until well blended.

Press cheese mixture into a 2-cup glass bowl or a plastic wrap-lined mold. Cover and chill at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours.

Combine chopped bacon, pecans, and brown sugar. Sauté bacon mixture in a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray over medium heat until pecans are toasted and bacon begins to crisp (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat, and let cool.

Invert cheese mixture onto a serving plate. Gently press pecan mixture onto top and sides of cheese mixture. Serve with assorted crackers or crostini.