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; 1 clove garlic, halved; 200ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; French bread, cubed, for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making fondue with Swiss cheese and garlic for gatherings. The way the cheese melts into a creamy, delicious dip is simply irresistible. Cooking together, dipping fresh bread into the bubbling pot, and celebrating the rich flavors creates an unforgettable experience. The decadent combination of flavors not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings people together around the table. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a lively party, making it a go-to recipe whenever I want to impress my guests.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:22:18.475Z

When I first tried fondue, I was hooked. I remember the thrill of melting cheese right in front of friends and family, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Each batch of cheese takes just the right balance of heat and stirring, which is crucial for that perfect silky texture. I always recommend opting for a mix of Gruyère and Emmental for an authentic taste!

One tip I have is to add a splash of white wine to the cheese mixture for acidity; it really enhances the flavor profile and helps keep the cheese from becoming too sticky. I've experimented with various garlic levels, and I find that gently sautéing some minced garlic before adding it to the cheese infuses a rich, savory tone that's truly irresistible.

        Why You Will Love This Fondue
        Lusciously smooth texture that clings perfectly to bread
A blend of nutty and creamy flavors that's hard to beat
Interactive and fun dining experience great for sharing

      

The Importance of Quality Cheese

When making fondue, the choice of cheese is paramount to achieving that luscious texture. Gruyère and Emmental are traditional Swiss cheeses specifically selected for their melting properties and flavor profiles. Gruyère offers a robust nuttiness while Emmental introduces a creamy sweetness, creating a harmonious balance when melted together. Always opt for high-quality, block cheese that you can grate yourself, rather than pre-shredded varieties, as they often contain anti-caking agents that can interfere with the smooth melting process.

If you're looking to experiment with flavors, consider blending in a bit of smoked cheese or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat. Keep in mind that while traditional recipes call for these two cheeses, you can substitute with others like Fontina or Havarti, but be cautious of the overall melting characteristics for the perfect fondue experience.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

For the best results in your fondue, the process of melting the cheese is crucial. After heating the wine and lemon juice to just below boiling (around 85-90°C or 185-194°F), add the cheese gradually while stirring continuously. This gradual incorporation helps prevent the cheese from seizing up or becoming gritty, ensuring a smooth, glossy finish. Keep the heat low and avoid rapid boiling to maintain control over how the cheese melts.

Additionally, if your fondue begins to separate or become too thick while serving, a splash of warm wine can help bring it back together. Stir it in gently until the consistency is restored, allowing everyone to enjoy the rich, creamy texture without a hitch. Remember, the key is patience; rushing the melting process is the surest way to curdle your cheese.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful fondue experience!

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
200ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
French bread, cubed, for dipping

Prepare everything and get ready to enjoy your delicious fondue!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Swiss cheese fondue!

Prepare the Pot

Rubbing the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove adds a subtle flavor. Afterward, discard the garlic.

Mix the Cheeses

In a bowl, combine Gruyère and Emmental cheeses with cornstarch. This helps prevent clumping when melted.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the pot and heat gently until just below boiling.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Add pepper to taste.

Serve the Fondue

Serve immediately, keeping the fondue warm over a low flame. Enjoy with freshly cubed bread!

Enjoy every bite of this delicious fondue!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of Kirsch (cherry brandy) to the fondue just before serving. It offers a nice depth to the overall taste!

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover fondue, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of white wine or cream to help restore its texture. Stir continuously until warmed through, but take care not to overheat, which can lead to a grainy consistency. I like to use a heavy-bottomed saucepan for even heating.

However, if you plan to make fondue ahead of time, consider preparing the cheese mixture and storing it separately from the wine base. Combine them just before serving to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant. You can also scale down the recipe effortlessly, making it ideal for smaller gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

While traditional accompaniments like French bread cubes are delightful, don't hesitate to get creative with your dippers. Fresh vegetables such as blanched broccoli or asparagus, crunchy apple slices, or even cooked potatoes can provide contrasting flavors and textures. For a unique twist, consider adding cured meats or charcuterie to your fondue platter, elevating the dining experience further.

Additionally, don’t forget about the fondu pot itself! Keeping it over a gentle flame is essential to maintain that perfect dip consistency. If you’re serving a group, consider a communal pot where everyone can interact, and you can even encourage a friendly competition for who can get the most cheese on their bread!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make fondue ahead of time?

It's best to serve fondue fresh, but you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and reheat it gently.

→ What can I dip besides bread?

You can use vegetables like steamed broccoli or carrots, and even cooked potatoes!

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of wine.

→ Can I use other cheeses?

Yes! While Gruyère and Emmental are traditional, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Fontina or Monterey Jack.