Fondue with Gruyere and Fresh Thyme

Name: Fondue with Gruyere and Fresh Thyme
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyere cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 300ml dry white wine; 2 garlic cloves, halved; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Nutmeg to taste; Cubed crusty bread; Steamed broccoli florets; Sliced apples; Cherry tomatoes; Pickled vegetables

Highlighted under: Home Baking Collection

I love making Fondue with Gruyere and Fresh Thyme as it brings everyone together for a delightful dining experience. The rich, nutty flavor of Gruyere combined with the aromatic freshness of thyme creates a comforting and indulgent treat that’s perfect for gatherings. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a special occasion, this fondue warms the heart and palate. Pairing it with an array of dippables, from crusty bread to crisp vegetables, makes it a fun and interactive meal that sparks joy in every bite.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:25:39.776Z

When I first tried making fondue at home, I was pleasantly surprised at how simple and rewarding it is. The key to a great fondue is using high-quality cheese, and Gruyere never disappoints with its rich, buttery flavor. I also love incorporating fresh thyme, which adds an aromatic touch that elevates the dish.

Experimenting with different dippables has been a wonderful journey for my family and friends. We’ve tried everything from roasted garlic cloves to pickled vegetables, and each addition has created a unique fondue experience. My favorite tip? Always serve with a touch of freshly grated nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth.

        Why You Will Love This Fondue
        Rich, nutty flavor of Gruyere combined with fragrant thyme
Perfectly gooey texture that invites endless dipping
Brings together friends and family for a shared experience

      

Understanding Fondue Cheese

Choosing the right cheese is essential for a creamy fondue. Gruyere provides that rich, nutty flavor, but combining it with Emmental adds a milder sweetness and helps create a smooth texture. The blend of these two cheeses melts beautifully, so don’t skip the cornstarch, which binds the cheeses together and prevents them from becoming stringy. If you can’t find Gruyere, a good substitute would be a young Swiss cheese, though it might yield a different flavor profile.

When melting the cheese, be patient and maintain a steady low to medium heat. Too high of a temperature can cause the cheese to separate, resulting in a grainy texture. Stir continuously using a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula to help integrate the cheeses with the wine. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is glossy and flows smoothly off your spoon, making it perfect for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

For dippables, select a variety of textures and flavors to complement the rich fondue. While crusty bread is traditional, consider adding a fresh touch with sliced apples, whose sweetness balances the salty cheese. You can also customize with seasonal vegetables or your favorite charcuterie. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower maintain their structure, providing a satisfying crunch when dipped.

To elevate your fondue experience, offer a selection of different dipping sauces alongside, like a honey mustard or a tangy vinaigrette. These add complexity and highlight the flavors of the cheese, making the meal feel more gourmet. Serving this fondue at a gathered table creates a cozy atmosphere, encouraging guests to share and engage in the festive spirit of the meal.

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyere cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
300ml dry white wine
2 garlic cloves, halved
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Nutmeg to taste

Dippables

Cubed crusty bread
Steamed broccoli florets
Sliced apples
Cherry tomatoes
Pickled vegetables

Prepare all the ingredients beforehand to make the cooking process smoother.

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, mix the grated Gruyere and Emmental cheeses with cornstarch. This will help prevent clumping when melted.

Infuse the Wine

Rub the interior of a fondue pot or a heavy saucepan with the halved garlic cloves. Discard the garlic after infusing. Pour in the dry white wine and heat it gently over medium heat until it simmers.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering wine, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Stir in the fresh thyme, black pepper, and nutmeg according to taste.

Serve

Transfer the mixture to a fondue pot over a low flame to keep it warm. Arrange dippables around the pot for easy access.

Ensure to keep the fondue warm as you enjoy it with your assorted dippables.

Pro Tips

Consider using a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile. Always serve with a good quality bread, as it absorbs the flavors beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storage

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance. Grate the cheeses and mix them with cornstarch, storing the blend in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also infuse the wine with garlic ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld. Just ensure to reheat it gently to prevent the cheese from seizing when combined later.

If you have leftover fondue, store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, use a double boiler or a fondue pot on low heat, gradually stirring in a splash of white wine to loosen the texture. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can cause the cheese to become rubbery and separate.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your fondue turns out too thick, don’t fret! Simply stir in a little more white wine, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. This should keep the fondue creamy without compromising flavor. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can mix together a bit more cornstarch with cold water and stir this slurry into the fondue while it’s on low heat; this will help thicken it up.

For a fondue that stays smooth and creamy, avoid adding the cheese too quickly. Gradually incorporating it allows for better melting and helps maintain an ideal texture. If you're using lighter cheeses, they can sometimes be less stable, so consider blending in a small amount of cream cheese for added creaminess and stability if needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

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

→ Is it necessary to use white wine?

White wine helps in creating the right consistency and flavor. If preferred, you can use a non-alcoholic substitute like vegetable broth.

→ How can I keep the fondue warm?

Using a fondue pot with a burner will help maintain the warmth. Alternatively, you can use a heat-resistant ceramic container and place it on a warming tray.

→ What can I dip in fondue?

Besides bread, consider fruits like apples and pears, vegetables like steamed broccoli, or even meats like sliced sausage to diversify your experience.