If you’re looking for a quick, delicious snack that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering, look no further than these irresistible Beer Cheese Logs. Perfect for a casual lunch or a fun party appetizer, this recipe combines the rich flavors of creamy cheese with the delightful zing of beer. With just a touch of paprika and fresh parsley, each bite of these logs is a burst of savory goodness, and they come together in a mere ten minutes, making them an ideal choice for those last-minute entertaining needs. Let’s dive into how you can whip up these cheesy delights with ease!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: Approximately 20
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces of cream cheese 🧀: Ensure it’s softened for the easiest mixing.
- 3 cups of cheddar cheese 🧀: Freshly shredded or grated for the best texture and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons of fresh Italian parsley, finely snipped 🌿: This will add a burst of freshness and a touch of color.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of paprika 🌶️: This provides a subtle smoky and slightly spicy kick.
- 1/3 cup of beer 🍺: Lightly warmed to mix more easily into the cheese mixture.
Instructions:
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Start by beating the cream cheese and cheddar cheese together in a large mixing bowl. You want to get them well combined until they form a creamy, smooth mixture. This is best achieved using an electric mixer on medium speed to ensure that the cheeses are thoroughly blended without any lumps.
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Once the cheeses are well mixed, add the finely snipped fresh parsley and paprika. The parsley will introduce a refreshing herbal note, while the paprika adds a mild heat and vibrant color. Beat the mixture until these ingredients are fully incorporated, giving it a beautiful, speckled appearance.
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Gradually add the warmed beer to the cheese mixture. Adding the beer in small increments helps to ensure a smooth, consistent texture. Continue beating the mixture on low speed, until it’s nearly smooth. The beer will enhance the flavor profile and make the cheese mixture easier to shape.
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Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together and the mixture to firm up, making it easier to handle and shape.
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After the mixture has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Take a portion of the chilled cheese mixture and shape it into a log using your hands. The logs should be about the size of a traditional sausage link, but you can adjust the size based on your preferences and how you plan to serve them.
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For an extra touch, insert almonds along the top of each log. This adds a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese and beer mixture.
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If desired, you can spoon any remaining cheese mixture into small crocks or ramekins and chill them for 3 to 24 hours. This can be a great option if you’re serving the cheese mixture as a dip or spread rather than as logs.
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Serve the Beer Cheese Logs chilled. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of dippers such as crackers, fresh vegetables, or even slices of crusty bread. They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 149.8
- Fat: 13.6 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8.6 grams
- Cholesterol: 42.8 milligrams
- Sodium: 172.8 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 1.1 grams
- Fiber: 0.1 grams
- Sugar: 0.1 grams
- Protein: 6 grams
Tips and Variations:
- Beer Choice: Feel free to experiment with different types of beer to adjust the flavor of your cheese logs. A stout will give a richer, more robust flavor, while a pale ale will add a lighter, hoppier note.
- Herbs and Spices: Customize the flavor by incorporating other herbs and spices. Dill, chives, or garlic powder could be interesting additions if you’re looking to change things up.
- Serving Suggestions: For an elegant touch, serve the cheese logs on a platter with a selection of your favorite crackers and fresh vegetables. You might also include a few small bowls of pickles or olives for extra variety.
- Make Ahead: These cheese logs can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. They’re perfect for prepping ahead of a party or gathering.
With this recipe, you’re equipped to create a delectable and crowd-pleasing snack that’s not only quick to prepare but also brimming with flavor. Enjoy your Beer Cheese Logs, and get ready for the compliments to roll in! 🎉🧀🍺
