Ingredients
For the Cheese Spread:
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 oz cold pack cheese or cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz brick cheese or Colby cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons beer (preferably a Wisconsin lager)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons minced green onions or chives
For Garnish (Optional):
- Additional chopped chives
- Smoked paprika
- Chopped walnuts or pecans
- Dried cranberries
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, cold pack cheese (or cream cheese), and brick cheese (or Colby). Pulse several times to begin combining the cheeses.
- Add the softened butter, beer, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper to the cheese mixture.
- Process until the mixture is smooth and well combined, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. The texture should be creamy but still have some body.
- Transfer the cheese mixture to a bowl and fold in the minced green onions or chives by hand.
- Spoon the cheese spread into a crock or decorative serving dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- If desired, garnish the top with a sprinkle of paprika, additional chopped chives, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Remove from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier spreading.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this authentic Wisconsin supper club cheese spread with:
- Rye bread rounds or crackers
- Pretzel rods or pretzel crisps
- Celery sticks and carrot slices
- Apple or pear slices
- Pumpernickel toast points
Storage
Store the cheese spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This spread can also be frozen for up to 1 month – thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Notes
- For the most authentic Wisconsin flavor, use locally produced cheeses if possible.
- The beer can be replaced with milk for a non-alcoholic version.
- For a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or increase the horseradish.
- This recipe makes approximately 2½ cups of cheese spread.
Enjoy this classic Wisconsin supper club appetizer that’s been bringing people together for generations!