Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 2 cloves garlic, halved; 300ml dry white wine; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Nutmeg, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Bread cubes, vegetables, or fruit for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love the rich, creamy texture of fondue, especially when it's infused with aromatic garlic and delicious Swiss cheese. This recipe has become a favorite for gatherings with friends and family because it's not only easy to prepare, but it's also a fun way to enjoy an interactive dining experience. As we dip bread and vegetables into the bubbling cheese, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a memorable moment. I’m excited to share my take on this classic dish that never fails to impress!

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:28:20.794Z

When I first tried making fondue at home, I was pleasantly surprised by how straightforward it was. The combination of nutty Swiss cheese and a touch of garlic creates an incredible flavor profile that is perfect for dipping. I added a splash of white wine, too, which enhances the taste and gives it that classic fondue feel. The whole process felt like a special event, and everyone gathered around the pot made it even more enjoyable.

One tip I found crucial is to use a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor. Personally, I love blending Gruyère and Emmental cheese. They melt beautifully together and create a smooth, luscious consistency. Serving this fondue with crusty bread and fresh veggies makes the experience delightful. Trust me; once you try this, you’ll want to make it for every get-together!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich cheese flavor balanced by fragrant garlic
Interactive dining that brings everyone together
Customizable with your favorite dippers

      

Choosing the Right Cheese

The foundation of a great fondue lies in the selection of cheese. For this recipe, Gruyère and Emmental are traditional choices that deliver a perfect balance between creaminess and flavor. Gruyère offers a nutty taste, while Emmental brings mildness and a hint of sweetness. You can experiment with different cheeses, such as Fontina or a dash of sharp cheddar, but stick to those with good melting properties to achieve that desirable smooth texture.

When grating the cheese, it’s important to have a uniform size for even melting. Use a box grater or a food processor to achieve finer shreds. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as they typically contain anti-caking agents that can interfere with the melting process, resulting in a grainy texture. Freshly grated cheese enhances the fondue's luxurious mouthfeel, making every dip more delightful.

Dippers and Pairing Suggestions

The beauty of fondue lies in its versatility, especially regarding dippers. While classic accompaniments include crusty bread cubes, consider including blanched vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers for a colorful presentation. For a sweet twist, try dipping ripe fruits such as apple slices or strawberries to contrast the savory cheese. Remember to cut your dippers into bite-sized pieces for easier handling and a balanced cheese-to-dipper ratio in every bite.

I also recommend serving a light salad on the side, perhaps with a vinaigrette, to cleanse the palate between dips. This not only enhances the dining experience but also offsets the richness of the cheese. If you want to elevate your fondue night further, pair it with a crisp dry white wine or light beer to complement the flavors without overwhelming them.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, halved
300ml dry white wine
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Nutmeg, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Bread cubes, vegetables, or fruit for dipping

Have everything prepared and ready to go before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic cloves. Discard the garlic after rubbing to add flavor.

Combine Cheese and Wine

In a separate bowl, toss the grated cheese with cornstarch. In the fondue pot over medium heat, combine the white wine and lemon juice, and slowly bring it to a simmer.

Melt the Cheese

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

Season the Fondue

Add nutmeg and pepper to taste. Once everything is well combined, reduce the heat to low to keep the cheese warm.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately with your choice of dippers. Enjoy the experience of dipping and savoring the rich flavors!

Make sure to keep the heat gentle to prevent the cheese from burning.

Pro Tips

For the best texture, ensure your cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the pot. This helps it melt evenly and avoid clumping.

Tips for a Perfect Melt

Achieving that silky smooth consistency in your fondue requires patience and careful attention. When combining the cheese with the wine, it's crucial to add the grated cheese gradually, stirring continuously to prevent clumping. If the cheese starts to seize up, add a splash more wine and keep stirring until it loosens. Aim for a glossy, flowing texture that coats your dipping items beautifully.

If your fondue turns out too thick, you can easily rescue it by slowly incorporating a little extra warm wine or broth until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it's too thin, add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water. This can help thicken your mixture without compromising the flavor.

Storing and Reheating Fondue

If you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry! Store your fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do it gently over low heat, stirring frequently to bring it back to life. You may need to add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to restore its creamy texture, as it can become a bit thick after refrigeration.

For a more convenient option, consider preparing your cheese mixture ahead of time. Simply combine the cheese with cornstarch and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to make the fondue. On serving day, all you’ll need to do is combine it with the warmed wine and lemon juice. This makes the process much smoother and quicker when hosting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Gruyère and Emmental are traditional, you can experiment with cheeses like Fontina or Gouda for different flavors.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Bread cubes, vegetables like broccoli and carrots, or even fruits like apples and pears work wonderfully for dipping.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of wine or cream to restore consistency.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for the wine?

Yes! You can substitute white wine with vegetable broth or even non-alcoholic white wine to cater to dietary preferences.