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 Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 clove garlic, halved; 300ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons kirsch (cherry brandy); Fresh baguette, cubed

Highlighted under: Soft Inspiration

I love making fondue with Swiss cheese and garlic for gatherings. It's the perfect dish to share with friends and family as we dip pieces of crusty bread into the creamy, garlicky goodness. The smell of melted cheese combined with the aroma of roasted garlic fills the room, creating an inviting atmosphere. In about 30 minutes, you can prepare a rich and flavorful experience that brings everyone together. Whether it's a cozy night in or a celebration, this fondue will certainly become a favorite!

Created by

Darcy Penrose

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:49:43.251Z

When I first made this fondue, I was amazed at how easy it was to create such a wonderful dish. The combination of Swiss cheese and roasted garlic results in a bold flavor that's incredibly satisfying. I typically use a blend of Gruyère and Emmental cheese to achieve that perfect melt and depth of flavor. One key tip is to rub the inside of your pot with fresh garlic before adding the cheese, which truly enhances the taste.

Fondue has a way of bringing everyone together, and this Swiss cheese and garlic version is no exception. As I watch my friends laughing and dipping bread into the cheese, I know we've created a memorable experience. The secret lies in frequently stirring the mixture to achieve the creamiest consistency. Serve it alongside a variety of dippables for an unforgettable culinary adventure!

Why You Will Love This Fondue
Creamy, rich Swiss cheese that melts beautifully
Aromatic garlic adds depth and flavor
Perfect for social gatherings, bringing people together
Easy to customize with your favorite dippables

The Importance of Cheese Selection

Choosing high-quality Swiss cheeses, such as Gruyère and Emmental, is crucial for achieving the signature flavor of this fondue. Gruyère offers a nutty, complex taste that melts seamlessly, while Emmental adds a slightly sweet profile and a satisfying stretch when melted. Opt for cheese from a reputable source, as fresh cheese enhances the overall creaminess and flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can hinder melting.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating a touch of aged Gouda or a hint of sharp cheddar to your cheese blend. These cheeses not only improve the depth of flavor but also give your fondue a delightful twist. If you're looking for a non-dairy version, there are a variety of nut-based cheeses available that can mimic the texture, but be sure to test for your desired flavor profile.

Garlic's Role in Fondue

The halved garlic clove used to rub the pot is essential for infusing the fondue with aromatic flavor without overpowering the cheese. Ensure you rub enough surface area of the pot to achieve a balanced garlic essence. If you're more of a garlic lover, you can add finely minced garlic to the cheese mix; just sauté it lightly in a bit of oil before incorporating to soften its pungency.

Remember that the longer garlic cooks, the mellower and sweeter it becomes. Thus, if you want a stronger garlic flavor, experiment with roasting whole cloves and mixing them into the cheese mixture when you add the kirsch. It gives a delightful sweetness that complements the sour notes of the wine.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an interactive dining experience, prepare an array of dippables alongside your fondue. In addition to crusty baguette cubes, try adding blanched vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers, bite-sized pieces of cooked sausage, or even apple wedges for a sweet contrast. It's a great way to accommodate different tastes and dietary preferences at gatherings, enhancing your fondue experience.

Additionally, feel free to get creative with flavor variations. A hint of nutmeg or freshly cracked black pepper can elevate the taste profile. If you're feeling adventurous, add chopped fresh herbs like thyme or chives to introduce a fresh note. Experimenting with different flavor combinations can make your fondue the centerpiece of any social occasion!

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you begin:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
300ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons kirsch (cherry brandy)
Fresh baguette, cubed

Make sure to have your dippables ready to enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove. Discard the garlic.

Mix the Cheese

In a medium bowl, combine the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheese with cornstarch, and toss until well coated.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the pot and heat over medium heat until warm.

Add the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the pot, stirring continuously in a figure-eight motion until melted and smooth.

Finish with Kirsch

Stir in the kirsch and keep the fondue warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Enjoy your fondue with fresh baguette cubes!

Pro Tips

For a smoother texture, always use freshly grated cheese. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations for unique flavors.

Techniques for Perfect Melting

When melting cheese for fondue, patience is key. Heat the wine to a gentle simmer over medium heat, as too high a temperature can cause the cheese to seize instead of melting into the luscious fondue you desire. Stir continuously in a figure-eight motion, which allows the heat to distribute evenly and helps prevent any clumping. You’ll know it's ready when the mixture is glossy and pulls together smoothly.

If your cheese starts to separate or curdle, there’s no need to panic. Just add a splash more wine to loosen the mixture and keep stirring. If it's too thick, more wine can keep the consistency creamy without compromising flavor. A fondue should be smooth yet thick enough to cling to your chosen dippers.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Fondue is best served fresh, but if you want to prepare in advance, you can mix the cheese and cornstarch ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to keep the wine and kirsch separate until you're ready to heat the mixture. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid a grainy texture, adding a splash of white wine to restore creaminess if necessary.

For a fun twist, consider turning the leftover fondue into a pasta sauce! Just mix it with cooked noodles, and heat until everything is warmed through. It’s a delicious way to reduce waste and enjoy another comforting meal.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This fondue recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on the size of your gathering. For larger groups, simply double the amount of cheese and wine. Keep the ratio consistent, maintaining 200g of cheese per 300ml of wine for the right texture. However, if you downsize, remember that you can still create a delightful experience with just a small pot and two people.

When scaling down, be mindful that smaller amounts may heat more quickly, so keep an eye on your pot to avoid scorching. Adjust the cornstarch proportionally, as it helps maintain the creamy consistency, especially when reducing quantities. Regardless of the scale, ensure your fondue pot is the right size so that the cheese mixture can circulate evenly for melting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like Fontina or Havarti for different flavors.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Besides bread, try using fresh vegetables, apples, or even cooked potatoes as dippables.

→ Is there a non-alcoholic option?

Yes, you can substitute the wine with vegetable broth, although it might alter the flavor slightly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently before serving.