Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Kirsch

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Kirsch
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 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons Kirsch; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Bread cubes, for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore making fondue, especially with the rich and creamy combination of Swiss cheese and Kirsch. There's something magical about gathering around a bubbling pot of melted cheese, dipping fresh bread into it, and enjoying each bite. The hint of Kirsch adds a delightful depth to the flavor that elevates the entire experience. In just under an hour, you can prepare this perfect dish for a cozy night in with friends or family, making it an instant hit that everyone will love.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:22:18.574Z

There’s something so nostalgic about fondue that takes me back to cozy winter nights. I remember the first time I tried making it myself, and how excited I was to experiment with different cheeses and flavors. This combination of Swiss cheese and Kirsch has become a staple. The kirsch, which is a cherry brandy, not only adds sweetness but also enhances the nuttiness of the cheese.

When I serve this fondue, I always ensure that the bread is crusty and the cheese is perfectly melted. A gentle heat gives you the best texture. A quick tip: add a touch of cornstarch mixed with the cheese to achieve that silky-smooth texture everyone craves. It’s a game changer!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Rich, creamy Swiss cheese pairs beautifully with the hint of cherry from Kirsch.
Perfect for sharing, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Easily customizable with your choice of dippers, from vegetables to assorted breads.

      

The Role of Cheese in Fondue

Choosing the right cheeses is fundamental for achieving that classic fondue creaminess. Gruyère and Emmental not only blend well together but also melt smoothly when combined with wine. Gruyère has a nutty flavor that deepens as it melts, while Emmental contributes a slight sweetness. When shopping, look for high-quality, fresh cheeses to ensure a luscious texture that won’t separate during cooking.

For those who may not have access to Gruyère or Emmental, you can substitute with fontina or a mild sharp cheddar. Keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the dish's flavor profile, but they'll still yield a delightful fondue experience.

Perfecting the Texture

One of my key tips for achieving a silky-smooth fondue is to maintain a gentle heat once the cheese is added to the pot. If the cheese gets too hot, it can become grainy and clump together. Stir continuously until the mixture is fully melted and appears glossy. The addition of cornstarch not only helps bind the cheese together but also prevents it from becoming too oily.

If you find your fondue is too thick, a splash of additional wine can help restore its smooth, flowing texture. On the flip side, if it’s too thin, incorporate a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it up. Aim for a consistency that coats the back of a spoon.

Serving and Dipping Suggestions

One of the joys of fondue is customizing the dipping items. While fresh bread cubes are traditional, consider adding blanched vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower, or even cooked potatoes for a heartier option. I love serving pickles or cured meats on the side, as the acidity balances the richness of the cheese wonderfully.

To enhance the fondue experience, set up a variety of dipping options and allow your guests to create their perfect combination. You can also experiment with flavored breads, such as garlic or herb-infused types, for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cheese.

Ingredients

To create a delightful fondue with Swiss cheese and Kirsch, gather the following ingredients.

Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons Kirsch
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Bread cubes, for serving

These ingredients will combine to create a smooth and flavorful fondue that everyone will enjoy.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your fondue for a delightful experience.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of your fondue pot with the cut sides of the garlic. This will infuse a subtle garlic flavor into the cheese.

Mix the Cheese

In a bowl, toss the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheddars with cornstarch. This helps to stabilize the cheese when melted.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the fondue pot and heat it over medium heat until it begins to simmer.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually stir the cheese mixture into the simmering wine, stirring constantly until completely melted and smooth.

Add Kirsch and Season

Stir in the Kirsch and season with black pepper to taste. Keep over low heat to serve.

Serve with Bread

Using long forks, dip the bread cubes into the melted cheese and enjoy while warm.

Make sure to keep the fondue warm during serving. Enjoy with great company!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, consider adding some grated nutmeg or a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Always keep the fondue pot on low heat to ensure the cheese remains melted and delicious.

Leftover Fondue Solutions

If you happen to have leftovers, don’t just let them sit in the fridge! Melted cheese can be repurposed into a delicious pasta sauce. Combine it with a splash of milk or cream, and heat slowly until you reach the desired sauce consistency. Toss it with cooked pasta and some sautéed vegetables for a quick and satisfying meal.

Alternatively, consider making fondue-stuffed mushrooms. Simply cool the leftover fondue, scoop it into halved mushrooms, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is bubbly. This ensures none of your delightful cheese goes to waste.

Enhancing Flavor with Kirsch

Kirsch, a cherry brandy, adds a unique dimension to your fondue. Its fruity notes complement the richness of the cheeses, creating a harmonious balance. If you cannot find Kirsch, you could substitute it with a splash of cherry juice or a different fruit brandy, but keep in mind that the final flavor will slightly change.

When adding Kirsch, do so towards the end of the melting process. This prevents the alcohol from evaporating too quickly, allowing its flavor to truly shine through. A little goes a long way, so start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to your taste preference.

Scaling the Recipe

This fondue recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your gathering size. For a smaller group, halve the quantities of cheese and wine, keeping the other ingredients consistent. Just be sure to use a smaller fondue pot to control the heat better and prevent burning.

If you're hosting a larger party, increase the recipe by increments of 100g for the cheese and wine. An important tip is to ensure that your pot can accommodate the increased volume without overflowing. Monitor the stirring closely, as a larger batch can heat unevenly if not tended to.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Fontina or Havarti for a unique flavor.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Classic dippers include bread cubes, but you can also use vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or apples for a sweet touch.

→ How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Toss the grated cheese with cornstarch before adding it to the wine; this will help keep it smooth.

→ Can I make fondue ahead of time?

It’s best to serve fondue immediately after preparation, but you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and melt it just before serving.