Obatzda (Bavarian Cheese Spread)

Bowl of Obatzda next to German soft pretzels.

Obatzda (Bavarian Cheese Spread)

What's a German Soft Pretzel without Obatzda to dip it in? This Bavarian cheese spread is made with Camembert, butter, paprika and seasonings for a creamy, savory beer garden favorite. If you're making a batch of German Soft Pretzels, this is what you want next to them.

Course Appetizer

Cuisine German

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Servings cups

Calories 842kcal

Author Darcey Olson

Cost $9

Ingredients

9 oz Camembert cheese, at room temperature *Note 1
4 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
2 tsp unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives, plus more for garnish
2 tbsp finely chopped yellow onion
1 tsp sweet paprika, plus more for garnish *Note 2
2-7 tbsp German lager, as needed *Note 3
½ tsp Optional: caraway seeds, lightly crushed * Note 4

Instructions

Add the Camembert, cream cheese and butter to a medium bowl. Mash together with a fork until well combined, leaving some small pieces of Camembert throughout.
Add the chives, onion, sweet paprika and, if using, lightly crushed caraway seeds. Mix until evenly combined.
Add 2 tablespoons of beer and mix well. Continue adding beer 1 tablespoon at a time until the Obatzda reaches your preferred consistency. I use 1/4 cup per batch for a spread that's thick but still easy to scoop up with a soft pretzel.
Taste and adjust the paprika or caraway, if needed.
Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with additional paprika and chopped chives.
Serve at room temperature with German soft pretzels, sliced radishes and thinly sliced onion.

Notes

Note 1 - The rind is edible and I leave it on. For a milder flavor or smoother spread, trim some or all of the rind before mashing the cheese. Brie can also be substituted for the Camembert.

Note 2 - Use sweet paprika, not hot or smoked paprika. It will drastically alter the flavor if used.

Note 3 - I used a Helles lager and it worked great. Another mild German lager will work well too. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more as needed. I prefer 1/4 cup per batch, but you can use more for a looser pretzel dip.

Note 4 - Lightly crush the seeds before adding. Caraway can quickly take over, so taste before adding more.

Make Ahead: Refrigerate the Obatzda in an airtight container until needed. Let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving so it's easy to spread and dip.

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