Grab a medium saucepan and place it over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt until it’s almost completely liquid but not browning. This takes about 1–2 minutes. The aroma of melting butter signals the start of something delicious! Keep a close eye on it-don’t let it turn brown or it will alter the flavor of your Auntie Anne’s Cheese Dip.

Once the butter has melted, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Stir it with a whisk to incorporate it into the butter. Keep whisking for about 30 seconds to cook the flour. You’ll see the mixture transform into a thick paste-that’s your roux, which gives the dip its signature thick, creamy texture. The mixture should be smooth with no lumps visible.

Slowly pour in 1 cup of whole milk while whisking constantly. This step prevents lumps from forming and ensures a silky-smooth cheese sauce. Add the milk bit by bit at first, then you can pour faster as it incorporates. Keep whisking vigorously-it might feel like an arm workout, but it’s absolutely worth it for that velvety texture! After a minute or two, the mixture should look creamy and uniform.

Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mixture. Whisk them in thoroughly. The cayenne provides a subtle zing without making the dip too spicy-it’s what gives this Auntie Annes cheese sauce its signature warmth. Taste and adjust the salt if needed, as seasoning at this stage builds the foundation of flavor.

Turn the heat up slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Continue whisking as it heats up. You’ll notice the sauce thickening beautifully in about 2–3 minutes-it’s like culinary magic! Be careful not to let it boil too vigorously, as this can cause the mixture to curdle or become grainy.

Remove the pan from the heat-this is crucial! Adding cheese to liquid that’s too hot can make it stringy or separate. Add the 8 ounces of grated sharp cheddar cheese a handful at a time, whisking after each addition until it melts completely. Watch as the cheese transforms the sauce into a gorgeous, golden, creamy dream. This is what makes the Auntie Anne’s cheese sauce recipe so irresistible.

Your cheese dip should now be smooth and luxuriously creamy. If it seems too thick, add a small splash of milk (about 1 tablespoon at a time) and whisk until you achieve the perfect dippable consistency. The ideal texture should coat a spoon but still drip off easily-not too runny, not too thick.

Pour the warm cheese dip into a serving bowl. Chop up some fresh green onion and sprinkle it on top for a pop of color and a hint of fresh flavor. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, soft pretzels, or your favorite dippers. The Auntie Annes cheese dip is best enjoyed warm!