The Best Homemade Cheese Fondue Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade cheese fondue recipe is easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family. You’ll love how simple and delicious it turns out every time.
- Rich and creamy texture – Melted cheese blends perfectly with wine and spices for a smooth, velvety dip.
- Customizable flavors – Add garlic, herbs, or a splash of brandy to make it your own.
- Fun for gatherings – Everyone can gather around the pot, dipping bread, veggies, or even fruit for a cozy meal.
Recipe
Cheese fondue is a classic Swiss dish that brings people together with its rich, creamy, and indulgent flavor. Perfect for gatherings, this recipe is simple to make and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 clove garlic, halved
- 1 ½ cups dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 8 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces Emmental cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon kirsch (optional)
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
- 1 pinch white pepper
Instructions:
- Rub the inside of a fondue pot or heavy saucepan with the garlic clove.
- Add the wine and lemon juice to the pot and heat over medium-low heat until hot but not boiling.
- Gradually add the shredded cheeses, stirring constantly in a figure-eight motion until the cheese is melted and smooth.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the kirsch (if using) to form a slurry. Gradually stir this into the cheese mixture.
- Continue to cook, stirring gently, until the fondue thickens slightly.
- Season with nutmeg and white pepper.
- Transfer the fondue pot to a fondue burner or keep warm over low heat.
- Serve with cubes of crusty bread, boiled potatoes, or vegetables for dipping.
Notes:
- For a smoother fondue, confirm the cheese is shredded finely and added gradually.
- If the fondue becomes too thick, thin it with a little warmed white wine.
Equipment:
Fondue pot or heavy saucepan, fondue burner
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine:
Swiss
Serving:
4-6 people
Nutrition
Cheese fondue is a rich and indulgent dish, typically enjoyed in moderation. Below is the nutrition information per serving.
| Calories | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 320 | 22 | 12 | 18 | 480 |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade cheese fondue with crusty bread, like a baguette or sourdough, because it soaks up all that cheesy goodness. Fresh veggies, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers, add a nice crunch and balance the richness. You can mix and match these options to keep every bite interesting!
Bread Varieties
When it comes to pairing bread with cheese fondue, I’ve found that the options are practically endless, but some choices just stand out. I love using a crusty baguette because it holds up well to the rich, melted cheese without getting soggy. A hearty sourdough is another favorite of mine—its tangy flavor adds a nice contrast. For something different, I’ll grab a loaf of rosemary focaccia or garlic bread, which brings a savory kick. Don’t forget rye or pumpernickel; their earthy flavors pair wonderfully with the cheese. Even a simple ciabatta works wonders. The key is choosing breads that can handle the dip!
Fresh Vegetable Options
While cheese fondue is fantastic with bread, adding fresh veggies can take it to the next level—trust me! I love pairing it with crisp broccoli florets, bell pepper strips, or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and crunch. Blanched asparagus and zucchini slices add a tender texture, while baby carrots or cucumber sticks keep things light. Sometimes, I even throw in raw cauliflower or radishes for an extra bite. The veggies balance the richness of the cheese, making every dip feel indulgent yet revitalizing. Don’t be afraid to mix and match—your fondue will thank you!
