Carli’s Bee Cheese
There are spreads, and then there are legendary spreads. Carli’s Bee Cheese is one of those unforgettable flavor bombs that you can slather on crackers, serve at a party, or sneak by the spoonful late at night. It’s rich, tangy, slightly sharp, and perfectly spiked with sherry, horseradish, and garlic. Made with sharp cheddar cheese and butter as its creamy base, it delivers a bold taste that’s softened by aging in the fridge for a couple of days. Whether you’re setting up a grazing board or just craving something deeply savory, this recipe has the power to steal the show every single time.
What Is Bee Cheese?
Bee Cheese is a creamy, boozy, and robust cheese spread. It’s not your average cheese ball or dip—it’s more refined, more intense, and more versatile. The name may be whimsical, but the flavor is all grown-up. The inclusion of sherry gives it a warm, slightly sweet undercurrent, while the horseradish and garlic add zing and depth. Butter provides a velvety body that helps the flavors mellow together as they sit, making this one of those rare recipes that genuinely improves with time. It’s a cheese spread that tells you to slow down and savor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this spread is in its simplicity and the harmony of its components. Here’s what you’ll need:
10 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated
6 oz butter, softened
2 tablespoons sherry
1 tablespoon horseradish
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley (optional)
Each ingredient adds its own voice to the chorus of flavor. The sharp cheddar brings salty tang, the butter creates richness, the sherry provides elegance, and the horseradish and garlic cut through the creaminess with a savory punch. The parsley is there for color and a bit of freshness if you choose to use it.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Grate the Cheddar Cheese
Start by grating the cheddar cheese. You want the cheese finely grated so it blends smoothly into the butter. If using pre-grated cheese, give it a rough chop to break up long strands.
2. Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated cheddar, softened butter, minced garlic, horseradish, and sherry. Add the parsley if using. Use a fork or hand mixer to blend everything together until smooth. The warmth of the butter will help create a spreadable consistency.
3. Pack into a Jar or Crock
Once blended, spoon the mixture into a cheese crock, ramekin, or glass jar. Press it down firmly with the back of a spoon to eliminate any air pockets.
4. Chill and Wait
Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 days before serving. This resting time is crucial—it allows the flavors to meld and mellow into that signature Bee Cheese tang. Trust the process. The wait is worth it.
5. Serve and Store
Serve chilled or slightly softened at room temperature. It spreads best after sitting out for 10–15 minutes. Bee Cheese keeps well in the refrigerator for about 10 days.
Serving Suggestions
Carli’s Bee Cheese can be used in more ways than you’d think. Here are some of the best:
Spread on crackers or toasted baguette slices
Scooped with pretzels or veggie sticks
Melted into warm pasta for a twist on mac and cheese
Dolloped onto baked potatoes
Spread inside grilled cheese sandwiches
Used as a burger topping
Served alongside cured meats and pickles on a charcuterie board
The possibilities are endless. The boldness of the spread pairs beautifully with both delicate and strong textures.
Tips for Best Results
Use high-quality sharp cheddar cheese. Aged cheddar brings more depth.
Soften the butter properly—don’t melt it, just let it come to room temperature.
Use real horseradish, not the creamy sauce, for punchier flavor.
Choose dry sherry, not cooking sherry, for best taste.
Mix thoroughly to ensure no buttery pockets remain.
Let it age at least 48 hours before tasting. It’s tempting, but the flavor improves dramatically.
Once you’ve made it a few times, you’ll know exactly how you like it.
Customize Your Bee Cheese
Try one of these variations to make it your own:
Spicy Bee Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeño
Smoky Bee Cheese: Use smoked cheddar or add a drop of liquid smoke
Herb Bee Cheese: Add chopped fresh thyme or chives
Blue Bee Cheese: Add a touch of blue cheese for funkiness
Maple Bee Cheese: Add a teaspoon of maple syrup for sweet contrast
Bourbon Bee Cheese: Substitute bourbon for sherry
You can tailor this cheese spread to match the occasion, your mood, or the season.
Perfect for Entertaining
Carli’s Bee Cheese is a host’s secret weapon:
It can be made days in advance
It looks impressive and tastes luxurious
It pairs well with wine, beer, cocktails, or mocktails
It elevates even the simplest snack tray
It’s a conversation starter—everyone asks for the recipe
From wine and cheese nights to holiday parties, it delivers every time.
Pairing Ideas
Pair Bee Cheese with a variety of snacks and drinks for an elevated experience:
Food pairings:
Rustic bread or crostini
Pickled vegetables (cornichons, red onions)
Sliced apples or pears
Olives or roasted red peppers
Roasted nuts
Cured meats like prosciutto or salami
Drink pairings:
Dry white wines like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
Light reds like Pinot Noir
Whiskey or bourbon
Craft beers (especially pale ales or porters)
Sparkling cider or herbal tea for non-alcoholic options
The contrast of rich cheese with crisp, acidic or fizzy drinks is truly satisfying.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Bee Cheese is ideal for prepping ahead:
Refrigerator: Store in a tightly sealed jar or crock for up to 10 days
Freezer: Freeze up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving
Softening: Let sit out for 15 minutes before serving for spreadability
Batch Prep: Double the recipe and portion into smaller jars for gifting or easy serving
It’s a low-stress, high-impact dish that fits any lifestyle or schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Bee Cheese without alcohol?
Yes. You can substitute with apple cider vinegar, a splash of lemon juice, or just skip the sherry.
What type of cheddar should I use?
Sharp or extra sharp cheddar works best. White or yellow cheddar are both fine.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes. Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños.
What kind of horseradish should I use?
Use prepared horseradish from a jar—look for one with minimal ingredients.
Is Bee Cheese vegetarian?
Yes, if your cheese is made with vegetarian rennet.
Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes. You may want to add a pinch of salt to balance the flavor.
Can I use a food processor?
Yes. It helps get an ultra-smooth consistency.
What if I don’t have parsley?
Skip it or substitute with chopped chives or green onions.
Can I serve this warm?
Yes. It’s spreadable and delicious on warm toast or baked into recipes.
Can kids eat this?
The alcohol in sherry is minimal and mellowed by aging, but you can skip it for a kid-friendly version.
Final Thoughts
Carli’s Bee Cheese is more than just a spread—it’s a flavor-packed delight that brings character to any table. Creamy, bold, and irresistibly tangy, it’s a celebration of real ingredients and deep flavor. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just want to elevate a quiet evening snack, this cheese spread brings a gourmet feel to everyday moments. With a touch of creativity, you can make it your own and turn a simple recipe into your signature dish. Keep it in your fridge, share it with friends, or savor it slowly—it’s a recipe that will stick with you in the best possible way.