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: 4.0
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 clove garlic, halved; 300ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Vegetables for dipping (like broccoli and carrots)

Highlighted under: Baking Moments

I absolutely love making fondue, especially this Swiss cheese and garlic version! The combination of gooey melted cheese with the rich, aromatic flavor of garlic creates an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this dish brings everyone together. The best part? It only takes a few minutes to prepare, and the process of dipping your favorite bread or vegetables into the bubbling cheese is part of what makes fondue so delightful. Let me guide you through making this cheese indulgence!

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-01-13T23:28:11.845Z

When I first tried making fondue, I was worried it might be too complicated. However, I quickly learned that with the right cheese and some patience, it’s actually quite simple! I remember the first time I added garlic; it transformed the dish completely and added an exciting depth of flavor. I recommend using a mix of Gruyère and Emmental for that classic Swiss taste.

One tip I discovered is to make sure your cheese is at room temperature before melting it. This makes for a smoother texture and helps prevent clumping. Serve this fondue with a variety of dippables, like crusty bread, fresh veggies, and maybe even some sliced apples for a sweet contrast!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that pulls you in with every dip.
Aromatic garlic elevates the flavors of the melted cheese.
Perfect for sharing with friends during cozy gatherings.

The Importance of Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheeses is crucial for a successful fondue. Gruyère and Emmental are traditional Swiss choices, known for their excellent melting properties and rich flavors. Gruyère adds a nutty depth, while Emmental contributes a mild sweetness. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute Gruyère with Jarlsberg or a young cheddar, and Emmental with a mild Gouda. These alternatives will still deliver a pleasing texture and taste but may alter the fondue's characteristic profile slightly.

Remember, the quality of cheese significantly affects the fondue's consistency and flavor. Opt for high-quality cheese that is fresh and well-aged, as this will yield a smoother melt and richer taste. Pre-grated cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can result in a grainy texture. For the best results, buy whole blocks of cheese and grate them yourself just before use.

Mastering the Melting Technique

Melting the cheese properly is key to achieving that smooth, gooey texture we all love in fondue. After adding the cheese to the simmering wine, stir continuously with a wooden spoon to promote even melting. Aim for a slow heat that keeps the mixture just below a simmer; this can take about 5 to 10 minutes. If temperatures are too high, you risk scorching the cheese, which leads to a clumpy and unappealing texture. Should that happen, adding a bit more white wine can sometimes help re-emulsify the mix.

It's also important to whisk the cheese mixture occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. A fondue pot is ideal, but if you don’t have one, any heavy-bottomed saucepan will do—just make sure it distributes heat evenly. For the ultimate fondue experience, keep the pot on a low flame to maintain warmth without cooking it further, ensuring guests can dip continuously without the cheese hardening.

Dipping Delights and Combinations

While crusty bread chunks are traditional for dipping, don’t be afraid to get creative with your dippers! Fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli, thick carrot sticks, or even roasted potatoes can provide a crunchy contrast to the melty cheese. You can also incorporate fruits like apple slices or pear wedges, which complement the savory flavors beautifully and add a slight sweetness.

Consider creating a platter with a mix of dippers for variety. To enhance the experience, try toasting the bread ahead of time until it’s golden brown. This extra layer of crunch will provide a delightful textural contrast against the silky cheese. Moreover, for an extra flavor boost, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary over the dippers or even add a drizzle of truffle oil over the cheese for sophistication.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delightful fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
300ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Vegetables for dipping (like broccoli and carrots)

Make sure all ingredients are prepped and ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, combine the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheese with cornstarch. This will help keep the cheese from clumping as it melts.

Infuse the Garlic

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove to infuse flavor. Then, discard the garlic.

Create the Fondue Base

Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the pot and heat over medium heat until it starts to simmer.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the pot, stirring continuously. Keep the heat low to avoid scorching the cheese.

Serve

Once the cheese is melted and smooth, serve immediately with bread and vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your fondue with a selection of dippables for a fun and interactive meal!

Pro Tips

Ensure you keep the fondue warm but not boiling to maintain a smooth consistency. Mixing different cheese types can add complexity to the flavor, so feel free to experiment!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, storing them properly is essential. Allow the cheese to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. The fondue can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of white wine or a bit of cream to help reintroduce moisture, and heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid separation.

If you're planning to make fondue ahead of time for a gathering, consider preparing the cheese mixture and storing it separately from the wine base. You can pre-grate the cheese a day in advance and keep it in the fridge, equipping your fondue night for a quick assembly. Simply combine the cheese with the wine mixture just before serving.

Variations for Personal Taste

If you want to experiment beyond the classic Swiss cheese blend, consider adding a splash of flavor with ingredients like a few teaspoons of Dijon mustard or a hint of nutmeg, which complements the cheese wonderfully. Additionally, infusing the white wine with herbs such as sage or thyme during the heating process adds an aromatic twist that pairs beautifully with the richness of the cheese.

For a more adventurous palate, try incorporating different cheeses like blue cheese or pepper jack for an interesting kick. However, make sure to balance stronger cheeses with milder ones to ensure a harmonious fondue experience. You can always scale the recipe up or down based on the number of guests, keeping the cheese-to-wine ratio consistent for ideal melting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, fondue can present challenges like stringy or gritty cheese texture. If your cheese ends up grainy, it often indicates that the cheese was overheated or the wrong type was used. To help with this, maintain low, steady heat during the melting process, and always use quality cheese known for melting well. If the mixture does separate, whisking in a little cornstarch mixed with water can help restore emulsion.

If you notice your fondue is too thick, thin it out gradually with more warm wine. Just add a tablespoon at a time while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can simmer it gently to encourage some evaporation and concentrate the flavors, stirring regularly to prevent burning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! You can experiment with cheeses like Fontina or even add some blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Bread is traditional, but you can also use fresh veggies, cooked meats, or even fruit like apples and pears for a unique touch.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of wine if needed.

→ Is fondue difficult to make?

Not at all! As long as you follow the steps, it’s quite easy and a fun way to enjoy a meal with others.