Fondue with Fontina Cheese

Name: Fondue with Fontina Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Fontina cheese, grated; 100g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 clove garlic, halved; 250ml dry white wine; 1 tsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Roux, bread cubes, and vegetables for dipping

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I can't think of a better way to gather friends than around a bubbling pot of fondue with Fontina cheese. This dish is perfect for cozy gatherings, and it invites everyone to share and enjoy the experience together. As the cheese melts, it creates a warm and indulgent atmosphere that's hard to resist. Pairing artisanal bread, crisp vegetables, and even fruits is not just recommended; it elevates the entire experience to a new level. Get ready to dip and savor every cheesy bite!

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:58:05.547Z

Last weekend, I decided to try my hand at making fondue with Fontina cheese, and it was a delightful culinary adventure. I chose to blend Fontina with a bit of garlic and white wine, and let me tell you, the aroma that filled my kitchen was heavenly. I also made sure to keep the heat low; this technique prevents the cheese from seizing up while keeping it smooth and creamy.

While preparing the dippings, I was able to experiment with different flavor pairings, like tangy pickles and crisp veggies. This not only added texture but also created a wonderful balance between the rich cheese and fresh elements on the plate. Watching friends dip their favorites into the fondue pot brought everyone together, and the laughter that followed was priceless!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The creamy, smooth texture of melted Fontina is simply irresistible.
The interactive nature of fondue makes for a fun dining experience.
Versatile dippings allow you to customize your fondue night.

      

Selecting the Right Cheese

Choosing high-quality cheeses is crucial for achieving that luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth fondue experience. Fontina is known for its creamy texture and nutty flavor, which serves as the base here. Gruyère adds a robust depth with its slightly sweet notes. Make sure to use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-packaged options; the latter often contain anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting.

If dietary restrictions or personal preferences require alternatives, consider trying Provolone or Emmental. Both maintain a creamy texture when melted and can complement the flavor profile of Fontina. Just remember to match the cheese's moisture content, as more aged cheeses may behave differently in the melting process.

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

One of the keys to a silky fondue is to melt the cheese at the right temperature. Keep your heat the medium setting to prevent scorching. Gradually adding the cheese while stirring continuously helps maintain a uniform texture. If you find your fondue too thick at any point, a splash more wine can rescue it without compromising flavor.

Watch for visual cues while melting: the cheese should become velvety and glossy, not stringy or gritty. If clumping does occur, don’t panic! Stir in a bit of warm wine or water gradually, making sure to continue stirring until the consistency is smooth once more.

Dipping Inspirations

While classic bread cubes are a favorite, don’t hesitate to get creative with your dippers! Crisp vegetables like blanched broccoli, cauliflower, or even bell pepper strips provide a delightful crunch and balance the richness of the cheese. For a unique twist, consider adding apple wedges or pear slices for a sweet contrast.

It's also fun to serve alongside some cured meats like prosciutto or salami. Not only do these flavors blend nicely with the cheese, but they also add a savory element that elevates the overall dining experience. Set up an array of dips, allowing everyone to personalize their fondue experience with exactly what they love.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a perfect fondue experience:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Fontina cheese, grated
100g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
250ml dry white wine
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Roux, bread cubes, and vegetables for dipping

Feel free to mix up the dippings based on what you love!

Instructions

Here’s how to prepare your delightful cheese fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

In a medium bowl, toss the grated Fontina and Gruyère with cornstarch. This prevents clumping during melting.

Infuse the Wine

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic. Pour in the white wine and bring it to just below a simmer over medium heat.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the pot, stirring constantly and allowing it to melt completely before adding more.

Season and Serve

Once melted, stir in lemon juice and season with black pepper. Serve immediately with your selected dippings.

Gather around the pot and enjoy the experience!

Pro Tips

To elevate your fondue experience, consider adding a splash of brandy or a pinch of nutmeg to the melted cheese for extra flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep some components in advance. Grate your cheeses ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. You can also pre-cube your bread and pre-chop vegetables, ensuring they are stored properly to maintain freshness.

When you're ready to serve, simply follow the cheese melting and wine infusing steps. If you want to save time during your gathering, initial prep can allow you to focus more on enjoying the company around you.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Should you have any fondue left after your gathering, store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid the cheese seizing or becoming grainy. Add a splash of wine or a bit of cream to help bring back its creamy consistency.

Remember that reheated fondue might not have the same texture as fresh, so serve it immediately once it has reached warmth. Pairing it with some fresh dippers can still make for an enjoyable experience!

Troubleshooting Tips

If your fondue becomes too thick, you can easily fix this by incorporating more liquid—a tablespoon at a time—while stirring. If it turns out grainy, it might be due to overheating. This is why keeping the heat at medium or low is crucial. To salvage it, try mixing in a bit of extra warm wine or broth until it reaches the desired creaminess.

Another common issue can be cheese clumping. To prevent this from happening in the first place, ensure your cheese is evenly coated in cornstarch before melting, as this creates a smoother consistency. Keep the fondue moving in the pot during the melting process, ensuring that every piece of cheese melts at the same rate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with cheeses like Cheddar or Havarti, but for the best texture, stick to semi-soft varieties.

→ What should I serve with fondue?

Great options include crusty bread, fresh vegetables like broccoli and carrots, or even sliced fruits like apples and pears.

→ Is fondue suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, as this recipe contains no meat. Just ensure your dippings are vegetarian-friendly as well.

→ Can I make fondue in advance?

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving.