Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper; Crusty bread, cut into cubes for serving

Highlighted under: Home Baking Collection

I absolutely love making fondue, especially with Swiss cheese and a hint of garlic. This comforting dish not only warms my kitchen but also makes my taste buds dance with joy. The creamy, rich texture combined with the sharp notes of the cheese creates an irresistible appetizer for gatherings. What’s more, it's surprisingly easy to prepare! Just a few simple ingredients and you have a delicious pot of melted goodness ready for dipping your favorite bread.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:19:35.877Z

When I first tried making fondue, I was taken aback by how interactive and fun it is to enjoy with friends. The way the cheese melts beautifully when heated, combined with the fresh aroma of garlic, is simply delightful. The secret to a smooth fondue is using a mix of Gruyère and Emmental; together, they create a perfect balance of flavor and texture that makes everyone come back for more.

One of my favorite tips is to toss the cheese with a bit of cornstarch before melting. This helps prevent clumping, ensuring a smooth and creamy fondue that clings perfectly to your crusty bread. It's such a simple step, but it truly elevates the dish!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent blend of Swiss cheeses with aromatic garlic
Perfectly smooth texture that's ideal for dipping
Great for social gatherings and celebrations

      

Mastering the Fondue Technique

The key to a successful fondue lies in the technique of melting the cheese. Avoid adding the cheese all at once to the simmering wine; instead, incorporate it gradually. This allows each addition to melt uniformly and prevents clumping. Stirring in a figure-eight motion is recommended, as it encourages even heating and ensures a smooth, glossy texture. You'll know it's ready when all the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is cohesive, resembling a thick cream.

It's essential to monitor the temperature of your wine while heating. If it starts boiling, the cheese may seize up, resulting in a grainy fondue. Aim for a gentle simmer, ideally between 180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C). If you notice any signs of boiling, reduce the heat immediately to maintain optimal melting conditions.

Choosing the Right Bread and Dippers

For the ultimate fondue experience, selecting the right bread is crucial. Crusty artisanal breads like sourdough or baguette work best, as they hold up well when dipped and won’t disintegrate in the cheese. Cut the bread into cubes of about 1 to 2 inches, ensuring they are large enough to be easily speared with fondue forks or skewers, but small enough to fit comfortably in your mouth.

Don't hesitate to get creative with dippers! While bread is classic, consider offering blanched vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower, apple slices for a sweet contrast, or even cooked sausages for a heartier option. These add different textures and flavors, elevating your fondue experience and catering to varying preferences.

Ingredients

The ingredients you need for this delicious fondue are minimal, yet they come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper
Crusty bread, cut into cubes for serving

Make sure to prepare all your ingredients beforehand to ensure a smooth fondue experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

In a large bowl, combine the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheese with the cornstarch. Toss well to coat the cheese evenly.

Infuse Garlic

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the minced garlic cloves to infuse flavor. Discard the garlic.

Heat the Wine

Pour the dry white wine into the pot and heat gently over medium heat until it's simmering but not boiling.

Add the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering wine, stirring continuously in a figure-eight motion until melted and smooth.

Finish the Fondue

Stir in the lemon juice and season with freshly ground black pepper. Keep warm over a low flame.

Serve your fondue immediately with crusty bread cubes for dipping!

Pro Tips

For the best dipping experience, make sure your bread is slightly stale. This way, it holds up better when dipped into the cheese.

Storing and Reheating Fondue

If you have leftover fondue, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before storing, let it cool to room temperature to avoid condensation, which can affect the texture. To reheat, gently warm the fondue in a pot over low heat, stirring constantly. You may need to add a splash of white wine or a bit of cream to regain its creamy consistency after refrigerating.

Avoid reheating fondue in the microwave, as this can create uneven heat and lead to a lumpy texture. If your fondue becomes too thick after cooling, gently stir in a little warm liquid as you reheat to help smooth it back out.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If Gruyère or Emmental cheese is unavailable, consider swapping with similar varieties like Jarlsberg or a mild aged Gouda. These cheeses melt well and can still provide a creamy texture and rich flavor in your fondue. Remember, the choice of cheese will impact the final flavor, so experiment with combinations until you find your favorite blend.

For a fun twist, you might try adding flavored ingredients. A splash of brandy or a sprinkle of nutmeg can elevate the taste, while adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can introduce earthiness. Adjust garlic levels based on your preference, and feel free to experiment with seasonings to customize your delicious pot of fondue!

Questions About Recipes

→ What types of cheese are best for fondue?

A mix of Gruyère and Emmental is traditional and offers the best flavor and texture.

→ Can I use a different type of wine?

Yes, but a dry white wine is recommended for the best flavor profile in fondue.

→ How can I make my fondue experience even better?

Add some herbs or spices to the cheese for an extra layer of flavor, or serve with a variety of dippables like vegetables or meats.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftover fondue can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on low heat while stirring.