Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g Swiss cheese (e.g., Gruyère and Emmental), grated; 2 cloves garlic, halved; 200ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Crusty bread, cubed, for dipping

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love indulging in a warm pot of fondue, especially when it’s made with Swiss cheese and a hint of garlic. The creamy, melted cheese is perfect for dipping crusty bread, and the garlic adds an aromatic depth that takes this dish to the next level. Whenever I have friends over, this fondue recipe always impresses, creating a cozy and interactive dining experience. It’s also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for spontaneous gatherings or cozy nights in. Let’s dive in!

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:58:12.882Z

When I first tried fondue, I was amazed at how simple it was to create a restaurant-quality dish right at home. The trick lies in using high-quality Swiss cheese, which melts beautifully, and balancing the garlic to enhance rather than overpower the dish. I recommend grating the cheese finely to ensure it melts evenly. This method creates a smooth and luscious texture that's simply irresistible.

One memorable evening, I hosted a gathering where we enjoyed the fondue while sharing stories and laughter. The interaction of dipping bread into the gooey cheese created a delightful ambiance. I learned the importance of ensuring the pot stays warm, as the cheese can seize if it cools down too much. Keeping a little white wine nearby helps maintain that perfect consistency!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy Swiss cheese melts beautifully and envelops each bite.
The garlic adds a fragrant and flavorful twist to the classic recipe.
Perfect for social gatherings, creating an interactive dining experience.

      

Choosing the Right Cheese

The choice of Swiss cheese is crucial for the success of your fondue. Gruyère is renowned for its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, which melds beautifully with Emmental's mild, creamy characteristics. If you're in a pinch, a mix of Gouda and Fontina can serve as a substitute, but the signature taste of Swiss cheese is irreplaceable. Make sure to grate the cheese finely; this helps it melt smoothly and evenly, preventing lumps from forming in your fondue.

For an extra layer of flavor, you could experiment by adding a touch of aged cheeses to your mix. A small amount of aged Gruyère or even a dash of sharp cheddar can introduce a delightful complexity to the cheese blend. Remember, whenever you adjust your cheese selections, keep the total weight equal to maintain the right melting consistency.

Perfecting the Fondue Technique

When preparing your fondue, maintaining the right temperature is key to achieving a silky texture. Too high of a heat can cause the cheese to seize up or become grainy. Stick to medium heat during the melting process, and be patient—this usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir consistently with a wooden spoon; not only does this promote even melting, but it also incorporates air into the mixture, giving it a lovely lightness.

If you find that your fondue is too thick, slowly whisk in a little more warm wine until you achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it's too runny, an additional sprinkle of cornstarch can help tighten it up. An easy rule of thumb to remember is to consult your fondue pot’s instructions, as some pots have specific heat recommendations.

Serving and Enjoying Fondue

To enhance your fondue experience, consider offering an array of dippers besides crusty bread. Vegetables like blanched broccoli, tender asparagus, or soft-sliced bell peppers pair wonderfully with the rich cheese. Additionally, cured meats such as sliced salami or prosciutto can elevate your fondue spread. Arranging these items on a large platter can create an inviting buffet-style setup that encourages guests to mingle and explore.

Fondue is best enjoyed immediately, as it can become thick or congealed if left to sit for long periods. If you have leftovers, reheat gently over low heat, stirring continually to restore its creamy consistency. For a fun twist, consider adding gourmet flair with toppings like truffle oil or fresh herbs just before serving; these elements can surprise and delight your guests while making your fondue truly memorable.

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

400g Swiss cheese (e.g., Gruyère and Emmental), grated
2 cloves garlic, halved
200ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread, cubed, for dipping

Enjoy dipping your favorite bread into the warm, gooey fondue!

Instructions

Prepare the Fondue Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the cut sides of the garlic halves to infuse flavor. Discard the garlic.

Mix the Cheese

In a bowl, toss the grated Swiss cheese with cornstarch. This will help it melt evenly.

Heat the Wine

In the fondue pot, heat the white wine over medium heat until it starts to simmer but not boil.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering wine, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Season and Serve

Stir in lemon juice and black pepper. Keep the fondue warm and serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Don’t forget to enjoy with your friends or family for a fun experience!

Pro Tips

Using a mix of Gruyère and Emmental cheese enhances the flavor and texture of the fondue. For added complexity, try incorporating some nutmeg or a splash of kirsch (cherry brandy) into the cheese mixture.

Ingredient Storage Tips

Unused Swiss cheese should be tightly wrapped in parchment paper or cheese paper, then placed in an airtight container in the fridge. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor. On the other hand, garlic can be stored in a cool, dry place, and should ideally be used within a week after purchasing for the best flavor. If you've got extra crusty bread, keep it in a paper bag at room temperature, but avoid sealing it in plastic to prevent it from getting soggy.

If you plan to prepare the fondue in advance, grate the cheese and toss it with cornstarch, store it in the fridge, and chop your garlic ahead of time as well. Just remember to heat the wine fresh on the day of serving to ensure your fondue has that perfect melted consistency.

Fondue Variations

Try adding a splash of your favorite liqueur, such as Kirsch (cherry brandy) or even a touch of beer, to the mixture just before serving. These ingredients can introduce exciting new flavor profiles while complementing the cheese beautifully. Additionally, if you'd like a spicier kick, consider incorporating a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of tabasco into the mix, adjusting to your preference.

For a vegetarian twist, you can replace the dry white wine with vegetable broth. Just be cautious with seasoning since broth can be saltier than wine. Adjust the acidity by adding a little extra lemon juice to maintain the flavor balance, ensuring the fondue remains vibrant and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with other melting cheeses, but aim for those with a similar texture to Swiss cheese.

→ What can I dip besides bread?

Vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and apples also pair wonderfully with cheese fondue.

→ How do I keep the fondue warm?

Use a fondue burner or a low heat setting on your stove to keep the cheese melted.

→ Can I prepare the fondue in advance?

It's best to prepare it fresh, but you can pre-grate the cheese and prepare the garlic ahead of time.