Appetizer: United States – Wisconsin, Upper Midwest – Brandy Old Fashioned Cheese Spread

Serving Size: 8

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 0 min

Additional 1 hr

Total 1 hr 15 min

Ingredients

- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened (preferably Wisconsin cream cheese)
- 8 oz (225 g) sharp Wisconsin cheddar, freshly grated
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) brandy
- 1 tsp (5 ml) Angostura bitters (about 6–8 dashes)
- 1 tsp (2 g) finely grated orange zest (zest of about 1/2 orange)
- 2 tsp (10 ml) fresh orange juice
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp (30 g) finely chopped green onion (about 2 medium)
- 2 tbsp (30 g) finely chopped toasted pecans (optional)
- 2 tbsp (30 g) brandied cherries, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp (0.5 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp (1 g) smoked paprika
- Crackers and soft pretzels, for serving
- Extra orange zest and a few whole toasted pecans or brandied cherries, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Short Description:
A Wisconsin-style party spread that blends cream cheese and sharp Wisconsin cheddar with the flavors of a Brandy Old Fashioned—brandy, bitters, and orange zest—for a boozy, citrusy dip served with crackers or pretzels.

Regional Notes:
This Upper Midwest variation uses Wisconsin cream cheese and sharp Wisconsin cheddar to anchor the spread, while borrowing cocktail elements—brandy, Angostura bitters, and orange zest—from the Brandy Old Fashioned popular in Wisconsin. The result is richer and more aromatic than a generic cheese spread and is typically served as a communal appetizer with crackers or soft pretzels.

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer or sturdy whisk until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the brandy, Angostura bitters, orange zest, orange juice, and Worcestershire sauce to the cream cheese; beat or whisk until evenly incorporated.
3. Fold in the grated sharp Wisconsin cheddar by hand until well distributed and the mixture is homogenous.
4. Stir in the chopped green onion, toasted pecans (if using), and brandied cherries (if using). Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika; mix and taste, adjusting salt, bitters, or brandy by small amounts as needed.
5. If the spread is too firm, loosen with 1 tsp (5 ml) more brandy or a splash of milk, mixing until the desired consistency is reached.
6. Transfer the spread to a serving bowl and smooth the top, or form into a loose ball on a plate. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to let the flavors meld.
7. Before serving, garnish with extra orange zest and a few whole toasted pecans or brandied cherries. Serve with assorted crackers and soft pretzels for scooping.