German Beer Cheese Dip

Name: German Beer Cheese Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 7 oz (200 grams) Camembert cheese, room temperature; 4 oz (115 grams) cream cheese, room temperature; 2 tablespoons (30 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature; 1/4 small red onion, finely diced; 1 teaspoon sweet paprika; 1/8 teaspoon cayenne (optional); 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1-2 tablespoons German lager beer

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This German Beer Cheese Dip is my take on Obatzda or Obatzter, a Bavarian cheese spread that is perfect alongside Soft Pretzels, rye bread or even fresh vegetables!

Chunky cheese dip in a bowl topped with chives.

Key ingredients

Camembert: Camembert is a creamy cheese with a thin rind. It’s somewhat similar to Brie, which can be used as a substitute.
Cream cheese: Cream cheese adds an extra layer of creaminess and helps bind the ingredients together.
Unsalted butter: The addition of butter gives the spread an irresistible richness.
Red onion: Finely diced red onion balances the sweetness of the cheese and adds a crunchy bite to the German beer cheese dip.
Paprika: I prefer sweet paprika for this recipe. Smoked paprika and hot paprika can overpower the subtle flavors of the cheese.
Beer: Paulaner is my go-to, but any German lager will work well.

Measured ingredients to make beer cheese dip.

Recipe variations

Add a pinch of caraway. Many German recipes for Obatzda call for a pinch of ground caraway. I’ve tested this recipe both ways and prefer it without, but the choice is yours!

Turn up the heat. A pinch of cayenne adds just a touch of heat to the cheesy spread.

Make it non-alcoholic. Skip the beer altogether or add non-alcoholic beer.

Step by step photos

Chopped camembert, butter and cream cheese before mixing.

Mashed cheeses with paprika and red onion.

Step 1: Cut the Camembert, cream cheese and butter into cubes. Mash the cheese and butter until well combined. The mixture will still be chunky.

Step 2: Add the red onion, paprika and salt. Mix well.

Step 3: Pour in a tablespoon of beer and stir well. Add an extra tablespoon if you prefer a more dippable consistency.

Make ahead and storage

If you want to make this dip for your Oktoberfest party or game day celebration, you can definitely whip it up a day in advance. Simply store in an airtight container overnight.

Let the dip come to room temperature and give it a stir right before serving. Top with fresh chives or a sprinkle of paprika to brighten it up.

Leftover German beer cheese dip can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Serving ideas

Serve your German beer cheese dip alongside Soft Pretzels
Add it to a Crudités Board
Spread it on your favorite crackers
Layer it onto bread, such as rye or sourdough

FAQs

Should I remove the rind from the Camembert cheese?

Nope, you should leave the rind on. The rind of Camembert is quite soft and adds both texture and flavor to the dish.

How much beer should I use?

The beer controls the consistency of the dish. Add a bit less for a spreadable texture or add an extra tablespoon to make it more of a dip.

Can I make this cheese dip without the beer?

Yes, you can simply leave out the beer or use a non-alcoholic beer.

Can I soften my cheese in the microwave?

Yes, but be careful! The cheese should be room temperature. It can be slightly warm in places, but shouldn’t be warmed through. I recommend microwaving on 50% power in 20 second intervals.