Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, shredded; 200g Emmental cheese, shredded; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Nutmeg, a pinch; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Blanched vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers); Apple slices

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making fondue at home, especially when it’s a chilly evening and friends gather around the table. This Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic has become a go-to recipe for us. The rich flavor of melted Swiss cheese combined with the aromatic garlic creates a delightful experience that tantalizes the taste buds. Serving it with crusty bread or fresh vegetables makes it a perfect interactive dish for any occasion, from casual nights to festive gatherings.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:07:07.776Z

While experimenting with different types of cheeses for fondue, I discovered that the combination of Gruyère and Emmental creates the perfect creamy texture and depth of flavor. I always add a hint of garlic, which elevates the dish by adding an aromatic essence that pairs beautifully with the cheese.

One of my favorite tips is to coat the bread cubes in a little cornstarch before dipping them into the cheese. This not only helps prevent the bread from getting soggy but also ensures that every bite is perfectly cheesy and delicious!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Silky smooth texture that envelops your taste buds
Aromatic garlic adds an unforgettable flavor twist
Engaging and interactive dish perfect for sharing

      

The Art of Cheese Melting

Achieving the perfect melted cheese consistency is essential for a successful fondue. Using a combination of Gruyère and Emmental provides not only a rich flavor but also a silky texture. The cornstarch you add before melting binds the fats and moisture, ensuring your fondue remains smooth and won't separate. When stirring the cheese mixture into the wine, think of an '8' motion to incorporate air and prevent clumping—continuously stirring makes a significant difference in achieving that perfect creamy look.

Temperature control is vital in cheese melting. Always heat the wine gently over medium heat. If the wine boils, reduce to low immediately; overheating can lead to a grainy texture rather than the desired silky finish. When the cheese starts to melt, keep the heat low and be patient, stirring constantly until it becomes a homogeneous mixture. If you notice any stringy clumps forming, don't panic! Just lower the heat and stir more vigorously to recombine.

Choosing the Right Dippers

The dippers you choose can elevate your fondue experience significantly. While crusty bread is a classic, consider opting for a sourdough or a baguette for enhanced flavor. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes; this size is perfect for skewering with fondue forks and ensures a good cheese-to-bread ratio. If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, fresh vegetables, like bell pepper strips or cucumber rounds, provide a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese.

For a sweet contrast, apple slices are an excellent choice. I prefer using crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith; their acidity complements the richness of the cheese. Just be sure to cut them just before serving to prevent browning. You can also explore other possibilities such as pickles or even meats like prosciutto for added flavor diversity, making your fondue experience even more delightful.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Fondue

Fondue Base

200g Gruyère cheese, shredded
200g Emmental cheese, shredded
1 cup dry white wine
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Nutmeg, a pinch

Dippers

Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Blanched vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
Apple slices

Make sure to prepare all your dippers ahead of time for a smooth fondue experience!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, combine the shredded Gruyère and Emmental cheese with the cornstarch. This will help to achieve a creamy consistency once melted.

Create the Base

In a fondue pot, heat the white wine over medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling. Add the minced garlic and let it infuse for a couple of minutes.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the hot wine, stirring constantly. Add the lemon juice, black pepper, and nutmeg while stirring until the cheese is completely melted and smooth.

Serve

Once everything is well combined, keep the fondue warm over a low flame. Serve with cubes of crusty bread and vegetables for dipping.

Don’t forget to stir occasionally to keep the fondue smooth and creamy while serving!

Pro Tips

For best results, use high-quality Swiss cheese and a dry white wine. Avoid using cheap cheeses, as they may not melt properly.

Make-Ahead Tips

Fondue is a fantastic dish for entertaining, but preparation can be streamlined. You can shred the cheeses and mix them with cornstarch a few hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld slightly, enhancing the overall taste. Just remember to let the cheese come to room temperature before you start melting to ensure smooth melting.

Another make-ahead option is to prepare the garlic infusion. You can mince the garlic and add it directly to the wine ahead of time; just warm it slowly when you're ready to prepare the fondue. This will save time and allow the garlic to impart its flavor deeply into the wine.

Storage and Reheating

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can store any leftover cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, avoid microwaving, as this can change the texture. Instead, gently reheat the fondue over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of white wine or milk to restore its creamy consistency. Stir continuously to prevent the cheese from clumping or burning on the bottom.

You can also repurpose leftover fondue into a cheesy pasta dish! Simply blend the fondue with cooked pasta on low heat, adding some sautéed vegetables or proteins to make it a hearty meal, ensuring none of that delightful cheese goes to waste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this fondue in advance?

While it's best served freshly made, you can prepare the cheese mixture and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving.

→ What is a good substitute for white wine?

You can use a non-alcoholic substitute like vegetable broth, but it will alter the flavor a bit.

→ How do I keep the fondue warm?

You can use a fondue pot with a flame or an electric fondue pot to keep it warm during serving.

→ What types of dippers work best?

Crusty bread, blanched vegetables, and even fruits like apples pair wonderfully with cheese fondue!