Fruited Cheese Log

I got this recipe from Better Homes and Gardens. I have had it in my holiday binder, but have yet to make it.

Fruited Cheese Log

1/2 cup snipped dried apricots
2 cups shredded monterey jack cheese
4 oz. cream cheese
2 Tbls. orange juice
1/3 cup golden raisins, chopped
1/4 cup chopped dates
1/4 tsp. salt
chopped toasted almonds, optional

In a small bowl, soak apricots in 1 cup hot water for i hour, until softened. Drain well, set aside. Meanwhile, place monterey jack cheese and cream cheese in a medium bowl and bring to room temperature, about 30 minutes. Add orange juice to cream cheese mixture. Beat mixture with an electric mixer until thorughly combined. Stir in raisins, dates, apricots, and salt. Divide mixture in half. On a lrage piece pf waxed paper, shape one portion into a log about 5 inches long. Repeat with remaining portion. Cover and chill, 4-24 hours. Roll in nuts before serving. Serve with crackers and apple slices.