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: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 clove garlic, halved; 300ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper; Crusty bread, cut into cubes

Highlighted under: Dessert Haven

I absolutely love making fondue with Swiss cheese and garlic; it creates a wonderful experience around the table. The rich, gooey cheese pairs perfectly with crusty bread, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. I prepare this dish often during cozy gatherings with friends, where we can dip, savor, and share in the deliciousness. Adding garlic gives it a delightful depth of flavor that everyone appreciates. Trust me, it’s the perfect indulgence for any occasion.

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:25:12.347Z

When I first learned to make fondue, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple and rewarding it was. I experimented with different cheeses, but Swiss combined with a touch of garlic always brings a smile to my face. The key is to use good quality cheese and white wine, which enhances the melting process and overall flavor.

One tip I discovered along the way is to prepare the garlic by rubbing the fondue pot with a cut clove before adding the cheese mixture. It gives a gentle garlic note without overpowering the rich Swiss taste. I can assure you, this fondue is best enjoyed with a group of friends and lots of laughter!

Why You'll Love This Fondue
Creamy, rich Swiss cheese that oozes with flavor
Delicious garlic aroma for an extra depth of taste
Perfect for social gatherings and intimate nights

Creating the Perfect Fondue Experience

When serving fondue, presentation is key. I like to place the pot at the center of the table with an assortment of dipping items surrounding it. While crusty bread cubes are traditional, feel free to include veggies like blanched broccoli or thinly sliced apples for a sweet counterbalance to the cheese. To keep the fondue warm and melted, using a candle or a low-heat burner can help maintain the ideal consistency without scorching the cheese.

Pairing options are essential when setting the mood for your fondue night. I recommend serving a selection of dry white wines, like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio, which complements the flavors of the cheese without overpowering them. Additionally, preparing a simple salad as a side dish can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fondue, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Perfecting Your Cheese Blend

The combination of Gruyère and Emmental is a classic choice for fondue due to their complementary flavors and melting qualities. Gruyère brings a rich nuttiness and depth, while Emmental adds a slight sweetness. If you can’t find Emmental, substitute it with a similar cheese like Jarlsberg. Just be sure to choose a cheese that melts well so that your fondue achieves that stretchy, gooey texture everyone craves.

Cornstarch is another critical ingredient in this recipe, as it helps stabilize the cheese mix and prevents it from clumping. When you combine the cheese with cornstarch before adding it to the wine, it creates a smoother, more unified fondue. If you’re looking to decrease the starch content, consider using a small amount of grated potato or arrowroot starch as a natural alternative.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a scrumptious fondue experience.

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
300ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper
Crusty bread, cut into cubes

Make sure to have plenty of crusty bread for dipping!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delectable fondue.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of the fondue pot with the cut side of the garlic clove. This will impart a subtle garlic flavor.

Mix the Cheeses

In a bowl, combine the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheese with cornstarch and mix well.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the fondue pot and heat over medium heat until warm but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

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

Season and Serve

Add black pepper to taste, stir well, and keep warm over low heat. Serve with crusty bread cubes for dipping.

Enjoy your fondue with friends and create wonderful memories!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding some herbs like thyme or nutmeg to customize the flavor of your fondue.

Tips for a Successful Cheese Melt

When heating the wine, make sure you avoid actually boiling it; too high of a temperature can cause the cheese to separate and become grainy. A gentle simmer is perfect – you'll want to see small bubbles forming but not a rolling boil. It’s important to stir consistently while adding cheese, as this helps achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Look for a glossy, thick texture that pulls away from the sides of the pot.

As you melt the cheese, if you notice it’s becoming too thick or not incorporating well, you can add a splash more wine, up to 50ml, to help achieve that silky texture. Just drizzle it in slowly while stirring to keep the fondue smooth. Should lumps appear, whisking vigorously can help to reevaluate the consistency.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Generally, it can last for 2-3 days. When you’re ready to revisit your fondue, gently reheat it on low over a double boiler, adding a small amount of wine to loosen it back to the desired consistency. Avoid microwaving it directly, as it can cause the cheese to become tough and unappealing.

If you're preparing fondue for a larger group, consider doubling or even tripling the recipe. However, it's best to melt the cheese in batches if you do so, as adding too much at once can cause uneven melting. Stick to the proportions in the recipe and ensure each batch receives the same careful attention to achieve perfection.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheeses are classic, feel free to experiment with a combination of your favorites.

→ What type of bread is best for fondue?

Crusty bread like baguette or sourdough works best, as it holds up well for dipping.

→ Can I make this fondue in advance?

It's best to prepare fondue fresh, but you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

If you have leftover fondue, store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.