Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Swiss cheese, grated; 100g Gruyere cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, sliced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Fresh vegetables (like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making fondue with Swiss cheese and garlic for gatherings with friends. This dish not only brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia but also creates an interactive experience at the table. Melting cheese, fragrant garlic, and a splash of white wine come together to create a delightful dipping experience. Whether paired with crusty bread or fresh vegetables, this fondue is sure to impress and satisfy everyone. It’s a recipe that never fails to bring joy and laughter into my home during cozy get-togethers.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:49:19.843Z

When I first tried making fondue at home, I was blown away by how easy and enjoyable it is. The key is to use a good quality Swiss cheese and to ensure it melts smoothly by stirring constantly over gentle heat. I found that adding garlic not only enhances the flavor but also elevates the whole experience, making it fragrant and comforting.

During one of my recent fondue nights, we experimented with different dippers. While traditional bread was a hit, we discovered that roasted vegetables added an unexpected twist that everyone loved. So don’t hesitate to get creative with your dippers!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Creamy, gooey cheese that pulls apart in delightful strings
The aromatic infusion of garlic enhances every bite
Perfect for warming up chilly evenings with friends and family

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this fondue is the combination of Swiss cheese and Gruyere cheese. These cheeses are specifically chosen not just for their flavor but for their melting properties. Swiss cheese provides a nutty undertone while Gruyere adds depth with its creamy texture. When preparing your fondue, ensure that both cheeses are freshly grated for optimal melting. Pre-packaged grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect the smoothness of the fondue.

Garlic plays a crucial role in flavoring this dish. Slicing the garlic and rubbing it inside the fondue pot infuses the oil released during melting, which accentuates the cheese’s flavors without overwhelming the dish. You can adjust the intensity of the garlic flavor by increasing or decreasing the amount used, or even infusing the white wine with garlic before combining it with the cheese for added depth.

Tips for a Perfect Melt

When heating the wine, it’s essential to achieve a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil. Boiling can cause the wine to evaporate too quickly, altering the balance of flavors and potentially leading to a gritty texture in the melted cheese. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, aiming for around 180°F (82°C) for the best results.

To achieve that wonderfully gooey consistency, add the cheese mixture gradually to the warm wine, stirring continuously. This gradual incorporation allows the cheese to melt evenly and prevents clumping. If you find the fondue too thick, simply add a little more wine one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, the fondue should be smooth, glossy, and cling to your dipping items perfectly!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious fondue

Fondue Ingredients

200g Swiss cheese, grated
100g Gruyere cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 clove garlic, sliced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Fresh vegetables (like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers)

Make sure to prepare everything beforehand for a smooth fondue experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your fondue.

Prepare Your Fondue Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the sliced garlic. This will infuse your cheese mixture with a subtle garlic flavor while it melts.

Mix the Cheese

In a bowl, toss the grated Swiss and Gruyere cheese with cornstarch. This will help the cheese blend smoothly when melted.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the fondue pot and heat it on a stove until it’s gently simmering. Do not allow it to boil.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering wine, stirring continuously until it's melted and smooth. If needed, adjust the consistency with more wine.

Serve and Enjoy

Once melted, place the pot over a candle or small burner to keep the fondue warm. Dip your bread and veggies into the cheesy goodness!

Enjoy your delicious fondue experience!

Pro Tips

For the best fondue, make sure your cheese is at room temperature before melting. Also, stirring in a figure-eight motion helps prevent the cheese from clumping.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your fondue, consider using a variety of dipping items to enhance the experience. In addition to crusty bread, you can include bite-sized pieces of sourdough or baguette for different textures. Fresh vegetables, like blanched broccoli or steamed carrots, provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese. For a fun twist, try adding some sliced apples or pears; their sweetness complements the savory flavors brilliantly.

To keep your fondue warm without using a fondue pot, you can set up a small heatproof bowl over a candle or an electric warmer. This approach allows for easy sharing as people can gather around without worrying about the fondue cooling. Just make sure to stir occasionally, as the cheese can settle and thicken if left unattended.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While fondue is best enjoyed freshly made, you can prepare the cheese and wine mixture ahead of time. Combine the grated cheeses with cornstarch and store them in an airtight container. Separately, you can infuse the wine with garlic and chill it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the wine, and add the cheese directly for a quick assembly.

If you have leftover fondue, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, and if it appears too thick, whisk in a little warm wine or milk to restore its texture. This way, you can indulge in leftover fondue without compromising its deliciousness!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, while Swiss and Gruyere are traditional, you can experiment with other melting cheeses like Fontina or Monterey Jack.

→ What can I dip in fondue other than bread?

Great options include bite-sized vegetables, cooked potatoes, or even apple slices for a sweet twist.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

→ Can I make fondue without wine?

Yes, you can replace white wine with vegetable broth or a mix of water and vinegar, but it may alter the flavor slightly.