Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 300ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; Nutmeg, to taste; Crusty bread, for dipping; Blanched vegetables (carrots, broccoli), for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic because it's an interactive and delicious dish that brings everyone together. The creamy, melted cheese combined with the aromatic garlic creates a rich flavor that's perfect for dipping. Whether it's a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this fondue is sure to impress. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare! Just gather your favorite dippables, and you're ready to enjoy this Swiss delight in about 30 minutes.

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:46:14.638Z

When I first attempted making fondue at home, I was amazed by how simple yet delightful it was. The key was to use quality Swiss cheese, and I opted for a mixture of Gruyère and Emmental, which created that classic creamy texture we all adore. Adding slightly sautéed garlic not only infused the cheese but also elevated the flavor profile, making our fondue absolutely irresistible!

As we dipped crusty bread and fresh vegetables into the bubbling pot of cheese, laughter filled the room. It became a fun evening, with everyone eagerly trying different combinations. This fondue not only nourished our bodies but also our connections, proving that good food truly brings us together.

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Rich, creamy Swiss cheese flavor with a hint of garlic
Interactive dining experience that brings everyone together
Perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings

      

Essential Techniques for Perfect Fondue

To achieve a silky smooth fondue, it's crucial to incorporate the cheese gradually into the liquid while continuously stirring. Start with low to medium heat to prevent the cheese from clumping or becoming grainy. If you notice the mixture thickening too quickly or the cheese starting to separate, reduce the heat. Keep a close eye on the consistency; it should remain glossy and cohesive for the best dipping experience.

One common issue when making fondue is overheating, which can cause the cheese to become stringy or rubbery. To avoid this, ensure your pot isn’t too hot after adding the cheese. If you feel the mixture is heating too fast, consider moving the pot off the heat source for a moment while you continue to stir, allowing it to melt evenly without reaching boiling point.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of cheese is pivotal for a successful fondue. Gruyère and Emmental create a harmonious blend of flavor and texture. Gruyère offers a nutty, complex taste, while Emmental adds a slight sweetness. For variations, you can substitute half of the Gruyère with aged cheddar for a sharper profile, but keep in mind that this may alter the melting characteristics. It's best to stick to cheeses with good melting properties for ideal consistency.

For the wine, selecting a good quality dry white is essential. It not only helps to smooth the cheese but also enhances the flavor. Avoid using overly sweet wines, as they can make your fondue saccharine. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic substitute, a mixture of white grape juice and a splash of vinegar can mimic the acidity and balance the flavors while keeping the fondue rich.

Ingredients:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
300ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Nutmeg, to taste
Crusty bread, for dipping
Blanched vegetables (carrots, broccoli), for dipping

These ingredients combine for a delightful experience!

Instructions:

Prepare the Cheese

In a large bowl, combine the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses. Toss with cornstarch to coat the cheese evenly. This helps maintain a smooth texture when melted.

Sauté Garlic

In a fondue pot or heavy saucepan, cook the minced garlic in a small amount of wine over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the remaining wine and lemon juice to the pot, then slowly incorporate the cheese mixture while stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Season and Serve

Add freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch of nutmeg for flavor. Serve immediately with crusty bread and blanched vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your fondue while it's hot!

Pro Tips

For an even creamier texture, consider adding a splash of kirsch (cherry brandy) to the cheese mixture. Also, use day-old bread for better dipping.

Serving Suggestions

For the best fondue experience, consider a variety of dippables to please every palate. Crusty bread is a traditional choice, but you can also experiment with bite-sized pieces of sourdough, pretzel bites, or even garlic bread. Including a mix of blanched vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or bell peppers offers a fresh crunch that complements the creamy cheese. For some fun, you can even include fruits like apple slices or pear chunks for a surprising twist.

Consider setting up a fondue station where guests can customize their dipping choices. Providing skewers or long forks will make the process easier and keep hands away from the pot, reducing the risk of burns. As fondue tends to thicken as it cools, a simple trick is to keep a small amount of white wine warm on the side, which can be added periodically to maintain smoothness.

Make-Ahead Tips

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some components in advance to cut down on meal prep time. Grate the cheeses and toss them with cornstarch the day before to ensure they’re ready to go. You can also mince the garlic and store it in a small container in your fridge to keep its aroma potent for a longer time.

If you find yourself with leftover fondue, don’t throw it away! Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it back in a fondue pot or saucepan over low heat, adding a small splash of white wine or milk to help restore its creamy consistency as it warms up.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheese blends, but ensure they melt well. Try adding Fontina or Gouda.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Apart from bread, you can dip various vegetables, cooked meats, or even fruits like apples for a twist.

→ How can I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently over low heat before serving again.

→ Is fondue healthy?

Fondue can be indulgent, so enjoy it in moderation. You can balance it with healthy dippers like fresh veggies.