Fondue with Beer and Swiss Cheese

Name: Fondue with Beer and Swiss Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup beer (preferably a lager); 2 cloves garlic, halved; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp cornstarch; Nutmeg, to taste; Salt, to taste; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Fresh vegetables (like bell peppers and broccoli) for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making fondue, especially with a twist like using beer and Swiss cheese. It takes the traditional recipe to another level, adding depth and richness that’s perfect for an evening with friends or a cozy night in. The combination of the nutty cheese and the slightly bitter beer creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. Plus, it’s a fun interactive way to enjoy dinner, allowing everyone to dip their favorite bread or veggies into the bubbling pot of cheese goodness!

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:58:13.409Z

When I first tried making fondue, I was surprised at how well the beer blended with the Swiss cheese. It's a balance that I didn't expect, and it really plays off the cheese's creaminess. I like to add a hint of garlic and sprinkle some nutmeg for an extra burst of flavor. We enjoyed dipping crusty bread and fresh vegetables, which soaked up the delicious cheesy brew.

One tip I learned is to use a mix of cheeses; Gruyère adds a nutty taste while Emmental gives it that signature melt. Make sure to stir continuously as you gradually add the cheese to avoid any lumps. This way, the fondue remains smooth and delightful!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, smooth texture that’s addictive
Unique beer flavor elevates the classic fondue
Perfect for gatherings, making it a fun social experience

      

The Perfect Cheese Combination

Choosing the right cheese is crucial for a successful fondue. Gruyère and Emmental are traditional choices; Gruyère provides a nutty flavor while Emmental contributes a mild, buttery taste. Together, they melt beautifully, creating that desired creamy texture. If you're looking for substitutes, consider using aged cheddar or a mild gouda, but be aware that the flavor profile will change slightly, creating a sharper fondue.

Grating the cheese before adding it to the pot not only helps it melt more evenly, but it also prevents clumping. Ensure your cheese is at room temperature prior to use, as this will enhance the melting process. A food processor or box grater works well here, achieving the fine shred that’s ideal for fondue.

Choosing the Right Beer

The type of beer you choose can significantly influence the fondue's flavor. A lager is recommended for its lightness and crispness, which complements the creamy cheeses without overpowering them. If you're adventurous, a pale ale can add a hoppy, slightly bitter note that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cheese. Do avoid strong flavors like stouts or porters, as they can overwhelm the dish.

Temperature is also key. Be sure to gently heat the beer until warm and steaming, but not boiling—this prevents bitterness from developing and ensures the cheese melts smoothly. A fondue pot or a heavy saucepan over medium heat is ideal for maintaining the right temperature.

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup beer (preferably a lager)
2 cloves garlic, halved
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tbsp cornstarch
Nutmeg, to taste
Salt, to taste
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Fresh vegetables (like bell peppers and broccoli) for dipping

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, combine both of the grated cheeses with cornstarch. This helps to keep the fondue smooth.

Infuse the Garlic

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic cloves to impart flavor.

Heat the Beer

Pour the beer into the pot and heat over medium flame until it's warm but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the warm beer, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Season and Serve

Add lemon juice, nutmeg, and salt to taste. Serve with bread and vegetables for dipping.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different types of beer
each can add a unique flavor to the fondue. Also, make sure to keep the pot on low heat while serving to maintain a smooth texture.

Interactive Serving Ideas

When it comes to serving your fondue, having an array of dipping options enhances the experience. Beyond crusty bread cubes, consider offering bite-sized vegetables such as carrots, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes. For protein lovers, cubes of cooked sausage or shrimp can make a delightful addition, elevating the meal further.

It's also fun to provide small skewers or forks for dipping to keep things tidy. If you want to jazz up your bread, try toasting the cubes briefly to achieve a golden crust; this adds an extra layer of crunch that beautifully contrasts with the melted cheese.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance. Just combine the grated cheeses with cornstarch and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day before your gathering. This way, when you're ready to prepare the fondue, you can simply add the beer and warm it up, making your prep less stressful.

If you have leftover fondue, it can be refrigerated for a few days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. You might need to add a splash of beer or milk to restore the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving, as this can cause the cheese to seize and become grainy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Just ensure you use cheeses that melt well, like Fontina or Havarti.

→ What can I dip into the fondue?

Aside from bread, you can dip vegetables, pretzels, or even cooked meats!

→ How do I keep the fondue from getting too thick?

If it thickens up too much, you can add a bit more beer or a splash of white wine to thin it out.

→ Can I make this fondue vegetarian?

Yes! Just make sure to choose a vegetarian-friendly beer and avoid any meat-based dips.