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; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 300ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 baguette, cut into cubes; Assorted vegetables (like broccoli and carrots) for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

When I think of indulgent comfort food, fondue with Swiss cheese and garlic instantly comes to mind. I love the way the rich, creamy texture of the melted cheese melds perfectly with the subtle sweetness of roasted garlic. This dish is perfect for sharing, whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. The combination of flavors and the interactive experience of dipping bread is what truly makes this fondue memorable. I can’t wait to show you how to recreate this delightful dish at home!

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:01:15.004Z

I've always been captivated by the warm, inviting aroma of garlic and cheese wafting from a bubbling fondue pot. It brings back delightful memories of gathering around the table with family and friends, dipping our favorite breads and veggies into the cheesy goodness. To ensure the right consistency, I discovered that using a combination of Gruyère and Emmental cheeses results in the ideal stretch and flavor.

During my experiments, I learned that incorporating a splash of dry white wine not only enhances the taste but also prevents the cheese from clumping together. This tip has been a game-changer in achieving a silky-smooth fondue that’s rich without being overwhelming. Just remember to keep the heat gentle to maintain that lovely melt!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Creamy, rich texture paired with aromatic garlic
Interactive dipping experience for sharing great moments
Perfect balance of flavors with cheese and wine

      

Understanding Cheese Selection

The choice of cheeses is crucial for achieving the perfect fondue. Gruyère and Emmental are traditional Swiss cheeses that not only melt beautifully but also provide a rich flavor profile. Gruyère contributes a creamy mouthfeel, while Emmental adds a mild, nutty sweetness. Together, they create a harmonious blend that’s essential for an authentic fondue experience. If you're looking for a substitute, aged cheddar can offer a piquant flavor, although you may lose some of the original creaminess.

When selecting your cheese, ensure it is at room temperature before melting. This helps the cheese incorporate smoothly into the wine and prevents clumping. Grating the cheese allows it to melt more evenly, so take the time to prepare it properly. If you find that your fondue is too thick after melting, you can stir in a bit more wine, which will help achieve that desired silky consistency.

Perfecting the Garlic Flavor

Garlic plays a pivotal role in elevating the overall flavor of your fondue. When choosing garlic, fresh cloves are always better than pre-minced options, as fresh garlic offers a sharper, more aromatic flavor. A gentle sauté with the wine ensures the garlic's sweetness develops without becoming bitter. Be careful not to let it brown; otherwise, it could impart an undesirable taste to your fondue.

For a more mellow garlic flavor, consider roasting the cloves before adding them to the wine. Simply wrap unpeeled garlic in foil with a drizzle of olive oil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes until soft. This method transforms garlic into a sweet, buttery element that will beautifully complement the cheeses in your fondue.

Interactive Serving Ideas

Presenting your fondue in a fun and attractive way can enhance the experience. Using a traditional fondue pot with a flame or electric heat source keeps the cheese warm and melted throughout your gathering. Consider garnishing the pot with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add a visual appeal and a hint of freshness. Providing a variety of dippables will also add excitement; think beyond just bread and include items like apple slices or pickles to contrast the richness of the cheese.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the fondue in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. If it thickens, a splash of wine or even a bit of milk can help restore that lovely creamy texture. Enjoy your leftover fondue as a cheesy pasta sauce or a topping for baked potatoes!

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
300ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 baguette, cut into cubes
Assorted vegetables (like broccoli and carrots) for dipping

Ensure all ingredients are ready before starting to cook for a smooth fondue experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, toss the grated cheeses with cornstarch to prevent clumping during melting.

Heat Wine and Garlic

In a fondue pot, heat the dry white wine over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and bring to a gentle simmer.

Melt the Cheese

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

Add Flavorings

Stir in the lemon juice and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Serve

Keep the fondue warm and serve with cubed baguette and vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your fondue while it's warm and bubbly for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic flavor boost. Also, ensure the cheese is at room temperature before melting for a smoother texture.

Troubleshooting Fondue

If your fondue turns out grainy, it's often due to the cheese not being sufficiently mixed with the wine or being too cold. To fix this, remove the pot from the heat, let it cool for a moment, and then whisk in a bit more dry white wine over low heat until smooth. This technique helps emulsify the ingredients, giving you that seamless texture you desire.

Another common issue is fondue separating after serving. To prevent this, maintaining the pot at a low, steady temperature is essential. This way, the cheese stays melted without reaching a point where it starts to separate. If separation still occurs, a few drops of lemon juice can help re-emulsify the mixture and restore that luscious creaminess.

Make-Ahead Tips

Making fondue can be more convenient with a little prep. You can grate the cheeses and even prepare the garlic a day in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. It’s essential to keep the cheese in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. When ready to cook, simply mix the ingredients and follow the standard melting process, leading to a seamless cooking experience.

For busy evenings, consider assembling a fondue platter with your choice of dippables ahead of time. Vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even small boiled potatoes can be prepped and chilled. This not only saves you time on the day of serving but also presents a colorful, inviting spread that your guests will enjoy.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're looking to scale this fondue recipe for a larger gathering, be mindful of the ratios. The general rule of thumb is about 100-150g of cheese per person, depending on your guests’ appetites. If doubling the recipe, use a larger pot to ensure even heat distribution and prevent clumping. Be sure to increase the wine proportionately as well for the right consistency.

When thinking about scaling, also consider the types of dippables. Offering a variety can help accommodate differing tastes. Planning for about two pieces of bread or vegetable servings per person can ensure everyone has plenty to enjoy. This approach not only enhances the experience but keeps your gathering lively and engaging.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute with cheeses like Fontina or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor.

→ How do I reheat leftover fondue?

Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of wine to restore the consistency.

→ What if my fondue is too thick?

You can thin it out by adding a bit more wine or broth until you reach the desired consistency.

→ Is fondue gluten-free?

It can be gluten-free if served with gluten-free bread and veggies. Always check your ingredients!