Bavarian Beer Cheese Pretzel Crostini

This crostini is a celebration of German flavors, featuring a creamy, tangy beer cheese spread atop a perfectly toasted baguette slice. The crunchy pretzel topping and sharp pickled onions provide a delightful contrast in texture and taste, making it the perfect appetizer for any festive gathering.

Cheese & Dairy

Ingredients

1 crusty baguette, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup Bavarian-style lager beer
12 ounces a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheese, freshly grated
1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Pretzel salt, for sprinkling

Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the Bavarian-style lager beer until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
Slowly add the grated cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in the whole grain mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
Toast the baguette slices in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Spoon a generous amount of the warm beer cheese sauce onto each toasted crostini.
Garnish with a sprinkle of pretzel salt.

Chef's Tip & Pairing

For an authentic pairing, serve this crostini with a crisp, slightly malty German Lager or a traditional Hefeweizen. The carbonation and light body of the beer will cut through the richness of the cheese spread beautifully.

From the Tini Crostini Collection