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 of garlic, halved; 300ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Black pepper, to taste; Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste; Crusty bread, cut into cubes (for dipping); Vegetables (optional, for dipping)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making fondue, especially when it features the delightful combination of Swiss cheese and garlic. This rich and creamy dish not only warms up any chilly evening but also sparks joy during gatherings with family and friends. The fragrant aroma of garlic perfectly complements the nutty flavors of the Swiss cheese, making each dip a flavorful experience. Don’t be surprised if this dish becomes the highlight of your night—it's that good!

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-13T19:19:08.218Z

When I first tried making Swiss cheese fondue, I was amazed at how simple yet exquisite the dish turned out. I combined Gruyère and Emmental cheeses with a hint of garlic, which added a lovely depth to the overall flavor. A splash of white wine helped create the perfect creamy consistency, making it irresistible.

During one memorable gathering with friends, I served this fondue alongside crusty bread and a selection of fresh vegetables. The joy on everyone’s faces as they dipped into the molten cheese was priceless! It was a comforting and interactive way to enjoy a meal together, leaving us all with delightful memories.

        Why You Will Love This Fondue
        Irresistibly creamy texture that envelops your taste buds
Delicious combination of garlic and Swiss cheese flavors
Great for sharing with loved ones during any occasion

      

The Importance of Cheese Selection

When making fondue, the choice of cheese is crucial for achieving that perfect melting texture. Gruyère and Emmental are the classic Swiss cheeses used in this recipe, as they melt beautifully and provide a balance of nuttiness and creaminess. Gruyère has a rich flavor with slight sweet notes, while Emmental contributes a mild, buttery taste. Together, they create an irresistible foundation for your fondue. Avoid using low-fat cheese options, as they can become rubbery when melted, ruining the smoothness you seek.

To maximize flavor, it's best to use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents. Grating the cheese yourself allows it to melt more evenly and incorporate better in the fondue. I recommend grating just before you start preparing your dip to ensure it retains its freshness and optimal flavor. If you can't find Gruyère, you could substitute it with a good quality Jarlsberg or even a mild cheddar, but be mindful that the taste will change.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Fondue is all about the experience, so serving it with the right accompaniments can elevate your gathering. Crusty bread is a classic option, but consider variety by including baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough. For a bit of color and nutrition, add a platter of fresh vegetables like steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or asparagus. These not only provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy cheese but also a fresh taste to balance the richness of the fondue.

Pair your fondue with dry white wine, which is not only used in the recipe but complements the flavors beautifully. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio would work well. For a non-alcoholic version, consider using a mixture of grape juice and a splash of vinegar to mimic the acidity of wine while still allowing the cheese to melt smoothly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this rich Swiss cheese fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
2 cloves of garlic, halved
300ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Black pepper, to taste
Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste
Crusty bread, cut into cubes (for dipping)
Vegetables (optional, for dipping)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Swiss cheese fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic cloves. This will impart a lovely garlic flavor to your fondue.

Combine Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses with cornstarch. This will help create a smooth texture.

Heat Wine and Cheese

Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the fondue pot and heat gently over medium heat. Gradually add the cheese mixture, stirring continuously until it melts and becomes creamy.

Season and Serve

Season with black pepper and nutmeg. Serve immediately with crusty bread and vegetables for dipping.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy or a hint of chili flakes to your fondue mixture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making fondue is achieving the right consistency. If your fondue turns out too thick, you can slowly incorporate a bit more wine or even a splash of broth over low heat until you reach the desired creaminess. Conversely, if your fondue is too thin, bringing it back to heat and gently stirring in a bit more cornstarch mixed with a small amount of cold water can help thicken it up without compromising the flavor.

If you're facing stringiness when dipping, your cheese may have overheated. Be sure to maintain a medium heat setting while preparing your fondue, and avoid bringing the mixture to a rapid boil, as this can cause the proteins in the cheese to bond incorrectly, leading to clumpy and stringy cheese. If this happens, you can try rescuing it by whisking in a bit more lemon juice or white wine.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Fondue is best enjoyed freshly made, but if you want to prep ahead, you can grate the cheese and mix it with cornstarch up to a day in advance. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. You can also prepare the garlic by rubbing it in the pot and store it covered until you're ready to cook. However, avoid pre-melting the cheese, as it tends to separate and lose its creamy texture when reheated.

Leftover fondue can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, and adding a splash of wine or broth if it looks too thick. While it's not as delightful as fresh, you can still enjoy this cheesy goodness as a sauce over vegetables or pasta!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to mix in cheeses like Fontina or Gouda for varied flavors.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Crusty bread, steamed vegetables, and even cooked meats work great for dipping!

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make fondue without alcohol?

Absolutely! You can use vegetable broth or apple juice as a substitute for white wine.