In a large saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in flour, brown sugar, and pepper. Add the broth and beer.
Cook, stirring occasionally, over medium heat until mixture comes to boiling. Reduce heat. Cook and stir the mixture 1 minute more. Add cream and cheese. Heat, stirring occasionally, until cheese melts and soup is smooth.
To serve, ladle soup into warm bowls.
For a nonalcoholic version, substitute additional chicken broth for the beer. It wont have the same flavor.