Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper; Fresh bread, cut into cubes (for dipping); Vegetables (such as broccoli or carrots) for dipping

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love indulging in a rich and flavorful fondue, especially when it’s made with Swiss cheese and a hint of garlic. This combination creates a wonderfully creamy texture that’s perfect for dipping bread and vegetables. Making fondue at home is easier than it seems and allows for personalization to suit your taste. With this recipe, I’ve managed to create a delightful dish that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Trust me, once you try this fondue, it will become a staple in your entertaining repertoire.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-13T19:34:15.237Z

When I first attempted making Swiss cheese fondue, I was intimidated by the process but excited by the flavors. I used a mix of Gruyère and Emmental cheeses, and the result was simply divine. I learned that adding a splash of white wine can elevate the flavor and help achieve that silky texture we all crave. Taking the time to slow-cook the garlic beforehand really enhances the aroma and richness.

Cooking fondue is more about the technique than the ingredients themselves. I found that stirring continuously while the cheese melts makes it easier to incorporate all the flavors without the mixture clumping together. It's truly rewarding to see friends gather around the pot, eagerly dipping and enjoying this classic dish together.

        Why You Will Love This Fondue
        Creamy texture enhanced by roasted garlic flavor
Perfect for sharing with family and friends
Easy to customize with your favorite dippers

      

Understanding the Cheese

The choice of cheese is crucial for a perfect fondue. Gruyère and Emmental are traditional Swiss cheeses that not only melt beautifully but also provide a robust flavor profile. Gruyère offers a nutty sweetness while Emmental adds a mild, creamy touch. To achieve the best melting consistency, ensure the cheese is freshly grated. Pre-packaged shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of your fondue.

To enhance the flavors further, consider using a mix of aged and young cheeses. Aged Gruyère tends to offer a stronger taste, while younger varieties provide a creamier melt. If you're unable to find Gruyère or Emmental, substitutes like Fontina or Jarlsberg can work well, though they may alter the flavor slightly. Just be sure to choose cheeses that melt nicely.

The Role of Wine

Using dry white wine is essential in fondue not only for flavor but also for achieving that desirable smooth consistency. The acidity of the wine helps to break down the proteins in the cheese, allowing them to melt together seamlessly. Aim for a wine with a good balance of acidity and fruitiness, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling. Avoid cooking wines, as they may contain additional salt and preservatives that can disrupt the taste.

If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, substituting the wine with low-sodium vegetable broth can work, though the fondue may lack some depth of flavor. Adding a splash of lemon juice, as stated in the recipe, can help mimic the acidity of the wine, enhancing the overall flavor of the fondue.

Tips for Serving and Enjoying

When serving your fondue, keeping it warm is key to maintaining the perfect dip consistency. If you don’t have a dedicated fondue burner, a small portable electric burner or even a slow cooker set to low can keep the fondue melted and bubbly while you enjoy it. Just be sure to stir occasionally to prevent separation of the cheese.

For dipping, choose a variety of accompaniments to cater to different tastes. While crusty bread is classic, fresh vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini can add a refreshing crunch. Also consider adding small cooked potatoes or even fruit such as apples and pears, which complement the creamy, cheesy mixture nicely. Experimenting with different dippers can elevate your fondue experience!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful fondue experience:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper
Fresh bread, cut into cubes (for dipping)
Vegetables (such as broccoli or carrots) for dipping

Ensure you have all ingredients ready and prepped for a smooth fondue experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, combine the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses with cornstarch. This will help thicken the fondue and prevent the cheese from separating.

Infuse Garlic Flavor

Rub the inside of your fondue pot with the halved garlic clove. Add the white wine and heat over medium until warm but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the warmed wine, stirring continuously until the cheese melts smoothly. Add lemon juice and season with black pepper.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the pot to a burner or fondue set. Serve hot with freshly cubed bread and assorted vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your fondue experience with great company!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding different herbs and spices to customize your flavor profile, or swap in your favorite cheeses.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover fondue can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, use a double boiler or a small saucepan over low heat to gently warm the fondue, stirring frequently to restore the creamy texture. Adding a splash of wine or broth may help bring back the consistency if it thickens too much.

For best results, avoid reheating fondue in the microwave, as this method can lead to uneven warming and may cause the cheese to become grainy. If you have a larger batch, consider scaling the ingredients proportionally to ensure consistent flavor and texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fondue ends up too thick, don't worry! Simply stir in a bit of warm wine or broth to loosen it up. Conversely, if it's too runny, a mixture of cornstarch and cold water can thicken it without altering the taste. Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water until smooth, then gradually incorporate it into the bubbling fondue. Just keep stirring until it thickens to your liking.

Another common issue is the cheese clumping rather than melting smoothly. To prevent this, ensure the cheese is well combined with the cornstarch before adding it to the wine, as this acts as an emulsifier. Additionally, if the fondue cools too quickly and begins to harden, just place it back on low heat while continuously stirring to reincorporate the melted cheese.

Variations and Flavor Twists

Consider enhancing your cheddar fondue with different herbs or spices for a unique twist. A pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add depth to the flavor. If you want a hint of heat, incorporating jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce can bring a delightful kick to your cheese mixture.

For those who love a bit of excitement, try adding some sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions into the melted cheese before serving. These ingredients not only add savory flavor but also create an enticing aroma that will entice your guests. Mix and match various ingredients based on seasonal availability to customize your fondue experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different cheeses like Fontina or cheddar to create your perfect blend.

→ What can I dip in fondue?

Bread, vegetables, fruits, and even meats work wonderfully for dipping. Just keep the pieces small and manageable.

→ How should I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove while stirring to regain the creamy consistency.

→ Is fondue safe for kids?

It's generally safe, but supervise young children as the pot will be hot. You can also skip the wine for a kid-friendly version.