Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 2 cloves of garlic, halved; 200ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Bread cubes, vegetables, and cured meats for dipping

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love hosting gatherings where I can share delicious food with friends and family. One of my favorite dishes to serve is this Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic. It’s creamy, rich, and the perfect dish for dipping fresh bread and vegetables. The combination of melted Swiss cheese and the aromatic essence of garlic creates a delightful experience that brings everyone together. Plus, it's surprisingly simple to prepare, making entertaining a breeze!

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:49:12.283Z

When I first made this Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic, I was amazed by how quickly it came together. I experimented with different types of Swiss cheese and found that a mix of Gruyère and Emmental gives the best flavor and texture. The key is to add the garlic slowly during the cooking process to infuse the cheese with just the right amount of aromatic goodness without overwhelming it.

Another important tip is to keep the heat low and stir continuously to ensure a smooth, velvety fondue. This dish has become a staple at my gatherings, as everyone loves the hands-on experience of dipping their favorite snacks into the warm, gooey cheese. It's always a hit!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Creamy texture that invites you to keep dipping
Rich flavors enhanced by the subtle garlic note
Perfect for cozy gatherings with friends or family

      

Essential Techniques for Creamy Fondue

Creating a smooth and creamy fondue requires attention to temperature. When melting the cheese, keep the heat at a medium level to prevent burning. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and has a glossy appearance. If you notice the cheese starting to clump, reduce the heat and continue to stir. This technique ensures a velvety texture so every dip remains indulgent.

Using a fondue pot or caquelon isn’t just for style; it helps maintain the temperature of the cheese mixture. If you don’t have a fondue pot, a heavy-bottomed saucepan can work, but be prepared to monitor the heat closely. Once the cheese begins to thicken, you can transfer it to a smaller serving vessel that retains heat for optimal dipping.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of cheese is critical for achieving the right flavor and consistency. Gruyère and Emmental blend beautifully, providing depth with Gruyère's nutty notes and Emmental's sweet, mild profile. If you’re looking for a lower-fat alternative, consider using reduced-fat Swiss cheese, but realize it may alter the creamy finish you desire. Adding a splash of lemon juice brightens the flavor and balances the richness of the cheese.

Fresh garlic is a standout in this fondue—using freshly halved cloves ensures a robust aroma. You can adjust the amount based on your preference; if you love garlic, try lightly sautéing the minced cloves in the pot before adding the wine to infuse a richer flavor. Remember, the garlic should not overpower the delicate cheese but complement it beautifully.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

When it comes to dipping, variety is key! Traditional accompaniments like crusty bread cubes are fantastic, but consider adding blanched asparagus, roasted potatoes, or even spicy sausage for a fun twist. Each dipper brings a unique texture and taste, enhancing the overall experience. For a playful variation, try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cheese blend for an aromatic surprise.

If you have leftovers, don’t worry! The fondue can be refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a bit more wine to help loosen the mixture. Alternatively, you can transform chilled fondue into a cheese sauce; just pour it over pasta or roasted veggies for an effortless meal that tastes just as indulgent.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make a luscious fondue that everyone will adore:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
2 cloves of garlic, halved
200ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Bread cubes, vegetables, and cured meats for dipping

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to preparing your fondue!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious fondue:

Prepare the Caquelon

Rub the inside of a fondue pot (or caquelon) with the halved garlic cloves to infuse flavor.

Combine Ingredients

In the pot, combine the white wine and lemon juice over medium heat. Gradually add the grated cheese, stirring constantly to incorporate.

Thicken the Fondue

Once the cheese is melted, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Stir this into the cheese mixture and continue to heat until smooth and thickened.

Season

Add freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting as desired.

Serve Warm

Transfer the pot to a fondue stand over a candle or burner, and serve with bread cubes, vegetables, and meats for dipping.

Enjoy your delightful fondue with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of kirsch (cherry brandy) or a sprinkle of nutmeg to your fondue mix. Remember to keep the flame low to avoid burning the cheese.

Storing and Reheating Fondue

Storing your fondue properly helps maintain its quality. After cooling completely, transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate. It should keep well for about three days. However, if you plan to store it, avoid adding any ingredients immediately before storing that may complicate reheating, such as fresh vegetables or herbs.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, gently reheat the fondue over low heat in a saucepan. Stir continuously to prevent any burning. Adding a splash of white wine, broth, or a touch of cream can help restore its creamy consistency. You may need to adjust the seasoning since flavors can mellow when chilled.

Perfect Pairings

Pair your fondue with a selection of beverages that enhance the dining experience. A crisp dry white wine not only complements the richness of the cheese but also enhances the overall flavor profile. Additionally, a light-bodied red wine can be enjoyable if you're including cured meats for dipping.

Consider setting up a small condiment bar alongside your fondue pot. Serving options like pickles, mustards, or various salsas can introduce exciting flavor combinations. Don’t hesitate to get creative—the goal is to mix and match textures and flavors to elevate your fondue evening.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While Gruyère and Emmental are traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Fontina or Havarti for a different flavor.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Bread cubes, fresh vegetables (like bell peppers and broccoli), apple slices, and cured meats all work wonderfully.

→ Is fondue suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Absolutely! This fondue recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. Just ensure your dipping options are also vegetarian.

→ How can I store leftovers?

If you have leftover fondue, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of wine to help revive the texture.