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 Swiss cheese (Gruyère or Emmental), grated; 100g garlic-flavored cream cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Assorted dippables (bread cubes, vegetables, etc.)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I have always been drawn to the warm, gooey charm of fondue, and when I discovered the incredible combination of Swiss cheese and garlic, I knew I had to try it. The richness of the cheese paired with the aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering dip that is perfect for sharing. I love how simple it is to prepare, and with just a few ingredients, I can create a mesmerizing centerpiece for any gathering. This fondue is not just a dish; it's an experience that brings people together to enjoy delicious moments.

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:58:17.671Z

I first experienced fondue during a ski trip to the Alps, where the first dip into a bubbling pot of melted cheese left me enchanted. Since then, I have perfected my own take on the traditional recipe, incorporating fragrant garlic to elevate the flavors. The key is to use high-quality Swiss cheese, which melts beautifully and creates a luscious texture perfect for bread or veggies.

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Creamy and indulgent Swiss cheese flavor enhanced by garlic.
Perfect for cozy gatherings with friends and family.
Easily customizable to include your favorite dippables.

      

The Role of Cheese in Fondue

Choosing the right Swiss cheese is crucial for achieving the perfect fondue texture and flavor. Gruyère is known for its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, while Emmental delivers a milder taste with larger holes. I recommend mixing both to enjoy the depth of flavor as they melt together. Ensure your cheese is freshly grated to avoid clumping, which can hinder the smoothness of the final dish.

For a richer taste, consider incorporating a small amount of aged cheese. A dash of aged Gruyère or even a touch of Parmesan can elevate the flavor profile, offering a balance between creaminess and unique tang. Keep in mind that reducing moisture content via additional aging can impact meltability, so adjust accordingly to maintain that signature fondue gooeyness.

Essential Techniques for Perfect Fondue

To prevent the cheese from becoming gritty, it’s important to melt it over low to medium heat. Heating it too quickly can cause the proteins to separate, leading to a grainy texture. Stir constantly in a zigzag motion rather than circular, ensuring even melting and integrating ingredients smoothly. You’ll want to stop heating once the cheese is glossy and uniformly melted, about 5-7 minutes after adding to the wine.

Don’t skip the cornstarch in this recipe! It acts as a binding agent, preventing the cheese from coagulating and enhancing creaminess. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use flour, but remember to cook the flour slightly in the wine to remove its raw taste. With any thickening agent, aim for a thick, flowing consistency that clings to your dippables without being too solid.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delightful Swiss cheese fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Swiss cheese (Gruyère or Emmental), grated
100g garlic-flavored cream cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Assorted dippables (bread cubes, vegetables, etc.)

Make sure to have your favorite dippables ready for the fondue!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious pot of fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, combine the grated Swiss cheese and garlic-flavored cream cheese with the cornstarch. Toss the mixture until the cheese is well-coated.

Heat the Wine

In a fondue pot or small saucepan, heat the white wine and lemon juice over medium heat. Allow it to reduce slightly, ensuring it doesn't boil.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the wine, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and smooth. Add the minced garlic and black pepper, and mix well.

Serve the Fondue

Transfer the pot to a heat source or fondue stand to keep it hot. Use forks to dip your chosen bread cubes and vegetables into the melted cheese, savoring each bite!

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

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try mixing in some herbs like thyme or rosemary into the cheese blend. Also, remember to always keep stirring the fondue as it melts to avoid any clumping.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover fondue, it's best to let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm it in a double boiler or fondue pot over low heat; avoid microwaving, as it can result in uneven heating and lead to a rubbery texture. Add a splash of white wine to reintroduce moisture as you stir to revive that creamy consistency while reheating.

If you find that the fondue has thickened too much while cooling, don’t worry! A small addition of wine or broth while reheating will help restore its silky smoothness. Just keep in mind to add liquid gradually and stir thoroughly to achieve the right texture.

Creative Dipping Options

While traditional bread cubes are a favorite, feel free to get creative with your dipping options. Roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and cauliflower add a lovely contrast to the richness of the fondue. For a sweet and savory twist, consider pairing with apple or pear slices. These fruits not only provide a refreshing balance but also complement the savory garlic notes beautifully.

For those looking to incorporate some protein, cooked meatballs or shrimp make excellent dippables as well. You can also try a gluten-free option by serving with rice cakes or toasted polenta squares. Experimenting with different textures and flavors can turn your fondue into a versatile dish, ensuring that every bite is a delightful surprise.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can mix it with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for varying flavors.

→ What can I dip into the fondue?

Bread cubes, roasted vegetables, fruits, and even cooked meats work wonderfully for dipping!

→ How can I store leftover fondue?

If you have leftovers, allow the fondue to cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I reheat the fondue?

Yes! Gently reheat it on low heat in a saucepan, adding a splash of white wine if it thickens too much.