Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese; 2 cups grated Emmental cheese; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Vegetables for dipping (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making fondue, especially when it's packed with the rich flavors of Swiss cheese and aromatic garlic. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy gatherings or special occasions. The melty cheese combined with the subtle heat from the garlic creates a delectable dip that pairs beautifully with crusty bread and fresh veggies. Just a few simple ingredients and a little patience bring this savory delight to life, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-13T18:10:20.446Z

When I first tried my hand at making fondue, I was nervous about the melting process. To my delight, the combination of Swiss cheese and roasted garlic was not only simple but incredibly satisfying. I found that using a mix of Gruyère and Emmental cheeses gave it the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor. The secret is to keep stirring gently as the cheese melts, ensuring it becomes perfectly smooth without clumping.

What's wonderful about this fondue is its versatility. While I love serving it with fresh bread, I’ve discovered that a selection of colorful vegetables adds a refreshing contrast. I often include cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and even apple slices for a pop of sweetness. This way, everyone can enjoy their own unique dip, and it makes for an impressive centerpiece!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy Swiss cheese texture that brings joy to every bite
Aromatic garlic infuses depth and flavor, making each dip unforgettable
Perfect for sharing with friends and family during festive occasions

      

Cheese Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right cheese is crucial for the best fondue experience. Gruyère and Emmental are traditional Swiss cheeses that melt beautifully and have a lovely nutty flavor. Grate the cheese finely; this allows it to melt evenly and integrate smoothly with the wine. If you're looking for a twist, you can also experiment with mixing in a little fontina or a sharp cheddar for added depth.

The cornstarch adds a significant role in ensuring your fondue remains smooth and prevents it from clumping. Toss the grated cheeses with cornstarch before mixing them with the wine. This technique coats the cheese, allowing it to melt more seamlessly when combined with the liquid, thus enhancing the creamy texture that makes fondue delightful.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Fondue

When heating the wine, be sure to keep the temperature at a gentle simmer; boiling can cause the cheese to seize up or become stringy. You want to see tiny bubbles forming along the edges of the pot. Once your wine is simmering, gradually introduce the cheese mixture while stirring constantly in a figure-eight motion to promote even melting.

If your fondue becomes too thick, you can easily rescue it by adding a little more wine, a tablespoon at a time. Conversely, if it’s too runny, allow it to simmer lightly while stirring until it thickens again. The goal is a glossy, thick, and dip-able fondue that clings to your ingredients effortlessly.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious cheese fondue.

Ingredients

2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
2 cups grated Emmental cheese
1 clove garlic, halved
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Vegetables for dipping (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers)

Make sure to have everything prepared before you start melting the cheese.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your perfect fondue.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove. Discard the garlic.

Combine Ingredients

In a bowl, toss the grated cheeses with cornstarch. In the pot, heat the white wine until just simmering.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese to the wine, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Finish the Fondue

Stir in lemon juice and season with black pepper. Keep warm and enjoy with bread and vegetables.

Now it's time to dip and savor every delicious bite!

Pro Tips

For a smoother fondue, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before melting. Experiment with different wine varieties to find your preferred flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Classic accompaniments for fondue are crusty bread cubes which can be dipped and easily held. Sourdough or baguette work well due to their sturdy crusts that won’t break apart in the cheese. You could also introduce bite-sized pieces of cooked potatoes or cured meats for a different flavor profile. For a healthier twist, fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or blanched broccoli offer a wonderful crunchy contrast to the richness of the cheese.

For an interactive experience, consider setting up a fondue bar. Place an assortment of dippables around your pot, encouraging guests to create their combinations. This can be a fun way to highlight seasonal produce or leftover bread from your pantry.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Fondue is best enjoyed freshly made, but if you need to prepare in advance, you can grate the cheeses and toss them with cornstarch up to a day ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Prepare the garlic and have your wine ready to go, so all you need to do is combine and melt on the day of serving.

Leftover fondue can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a pot on low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may need to add a bit more wine to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can affect the texture and result in a clumpy fondue.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! You can mix different cheeses like Fontina or Cheddar to customize the flavor.

→ What can I dip in cheese fondue?

Classic options include bread cubes and fresh vegetables, but fruits like apples and pears work great too.

→ How do I keep the fondue melted while eating?

Keep the fondue pot on a warming stand or use a candle-lit stand to maintain the temperature.

→ Can I make fondue in advance?

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and reheat it gently.