Irish Beer Cheese Bites

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Irish Beer Cheese Bites.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with a silicone liner to ensure easy cleanup later.

2. Step 2

   In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine butter, beer, salt, and sugar.

3. Step 3

   Watch as the butter melts and the mixture begins to simmer, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.

4. Step 4

   Once it’s bubbling, add the flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon.

5. Step 5

   In about 30 seconds, you’ll notice the dough coming together beautifully.

6. Step 6

   Keep stirring and cooking for another minute until the dough dries out slightly and starts to cling to the bottom of the pan.

7. Step 7

   Now, remove the saucepan from the heat and give it a good stir for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, scraping up any bits that may have stuck to the bottom.

8. Step 8

   This is where the magic happens! Transfer the dough to a bowl and add one egg.

9. Step 9

   Whisk it into a portion of the hot dough, then gradually incorporate more until everything is well blended.

10. Step 10

    Repeat this process with the second egg, cleaning the whisk as needed, until your dough is sticky and perfectly mixed.

11. Step 11

    Next, fold in the grated Cheddar cheese and a pinch of cayenne pepper, ensuring every bite will be bursting with flavor.

12. Step 12

    Using a spoon, scoop out 12 rounded tablespoons of the dough and place them on your prepared baking sheet.

13. Step 13

    For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle a little more Cheddar on top and around the sides of each puff.

14. Step 14

    Pop the baking sheet into the center of your preheated oven and let those puffs bake for about 25 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and golden brown.

15. Step 15

    Once they’re done, turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheese puffs to cool undisturbed for 30 minutes.

16. Step 16

    This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture! While the puffs are cooling, let’s whip up a delicious spread.

17. Step 17

    Heat a splash of olive oil in a pan over medium heat, then toss in the leek along with ½ teaspoon of salt.

18. Step 18

    Sauté until the leek is tender, which should take about 7 to 10 minutes.

19. Step 19

    If it starts to brown too much, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water.

20. Step 20

    After the leek is just right, stir in the green onions and sauté for another 1 to 2 minutes.

21. Step 21

    Once done, transfer this fragrant mixture to a bowl and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes.

22. Step 22

    When the leek-onion mixture has cooled, mix in some fresh lemon juice and creamy mascarpone cheese until everything is beautifully combined.

23. Step 23

    Season with salt and pepper to taste, then pop it in the fridge until your cheese puffs are ready to serve.

24. Step 24

    Finally, when the moment arrives, serve those warm, cheesy puffs alongside your delightful spread.

25. Step 25

    Enjoy the smiles and compliments that are sure to follow!.