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Easy German Beer Cheese Pretzel Dip for Oktoberfest

German beer cheese pretzel dip - featured image
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A creamy, smooth beer cheese dip made with sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and German beer, perfect for Oktoberfest parties, game days, or any cozy gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1/2 cup German beer (such as Hefeweizen, Oktoberfest Märzen, or Dunkel)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 small shallot, finely diced (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard powder (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnishes: chopped fresh chives, a pinch of smoked paprika, or a drizzle of honey

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: Soften cream cheese to room temperature, shred cheddar cheese, dice shallot, and mince garlic.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced shallot and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the cream cheese: Reduce heat to low. Add softened cream cheese and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in the beer: Slowly pour in the beer while stirring continuously. Cook for about 2 minutes until fully incorporated and smooth.
  5. Add the heavy cream and seasonings: Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and ground mustard powder (if using). Continue stirring until well combined and slightly thickened, about 1 minute.
  6. Add the shredded cheddar: Add shredded cheddar cheese in small handfuls, stirring constantly after each addition. Keep heat on low. Once all cheese is added, continue stirring for 2-3 minutes until dip is smooth, thick, and glossy.
  7. Season and adjust: Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. If too thick, thin with a splash of beer or cream. If too thin, cook for another 2-3 minutes over low heat, stirring constantly.
  8. Serve immediately: Transfer to a serving bowl or keep warm in a small slow cooker set to ‘warm’. Garnish with chives, smoked paprika, or honey if desired.

Notes

Shred your own cheese for best results. Use a beer you enjoy drinking. Keep heat low to prevent graininess. Can be made ahead and reheated gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: beer cheese dip, German beer cheese, Oktoberfest dip, pretzel dip, cheese dip, easy appetizer, game day snack

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/easy-german-beer-cheese-pretzel-dip-for-oktoberfest/