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: 400g Swiss cheese, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon kirsch (cherry brandy); Freshly ground black pepper; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Vegetables (like broccoli and bell peppers) for dipping

Highlighted under: Cultural Flavors

I can’t help but feel nostalgic when I think about fondue with Swiss cheese and garlic. It reminds me of cozy evenings spent with friends, gathered around a bubbling pot, dipping crusty bread into the rich, cheesy goodness. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible—the nutty Swiss cheese perfectly balanced by the warmth of roasted garlic. Making this fondue is not only a delightful cooking experience, but it's also the perfect way to bring people together for an interactive and fun dining experience.

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-13T23:16:07.786Z

During one of our culinary adventures, we decided to experiment with fondue after watching a travel show that highlighted the tradition. I was amazed at how simple yet luxurious it feels to create a bubbling pot of cheese right at the table. The key to a perfect fondue lies in the choice of cheese and the addition of garlic, which amps up the flavor without overpowering the cheese.

One memorable night, we paired the fondue with an array of dippables—from fresh vegetables to crunchy bread. Each bite was a delight, and I learned that letting the cheese melt slowly over low heat prevents clumping and creates that velvety texture we all crave. It’s definitely a recipe I’ll keep coming back to for gatherings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Indulgent blend of rich Swiss cheese and aromatic garlic
Perfectly interactive dining experience with friends and family
Creates a warm and nostalgic atmosphere for gatherings

The Role of Cheese in Fondue

Swiss cheese is the star of this fondue, providing a nutty and creamy base that melts beautifully. The perfect choice for this dish is a mix of Emmental and Gruyère, as they offer a balance of flavors and textures. Emmental contributes a mild, nutty flavor, while Gruyère adds a slightly sweet complexity. Together, they provide a smooth, elastic melt ideal for dipping. Always opt for high-quality cheese; processed options can result in a stringy texture and uneven melting.

Grating your cheese before melting it is essential for achieving that silky consistency. If you're short on time, you can ask your cheese vendor to grate it for you in advance. Just remember to toss the grated cheese with cornstarch to prevent clumping during the melting process. This keeps the fondue smooth—an essential factor in how well it will cling to your bread cubes or veggies.

Tips on Achieving the Perfect Melting Consistency

When melting the cheese, patience is key. Start with medium heat; cranking it too high can cause the cheese to seize up and become grainy. Stir constantly in a figure-eight motion to incorporate air into the mixture, achieving a glossy finish. This technique even helps to prevent the cheese from forming a crust at the bottom of the pot, which can lead to burning. If your fondue seems too thick, gradually add a splash more wine to loosen it up without sacrificing flavor.

Another common issue is if the fondue separates. If you notice this happening, remove it from heat immediately and stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water to help bring it back together. If your cheese is still too stringy after adding the kirsch, a touch of heavy cream can smoothen it out. Keep in mind that temperature control and careful stirring are vital for the perfect fondue texture.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start!

Ingredients for Fondue

400g Swiss cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon kirsch (cherry brandy)
Freshly ground black pepper
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Vegetables (like broccoli and bell peppers) for dipping

Make sure to have a variety of items for dipping!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect fondue!

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the minced garlic to infuse flavor. Discard the garlic after rubbing.

Mix Cheese and Cornstarch

In a bowl, combine the grated Swiss cheese with cornstarch. This helps to keep the cheese from clumping while melting.

Heat the Wine

In the fondue pot over medium heat, add the dry white wine and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer.

Melt the Cheese

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

Add Kirsch and Season

Stir in the kirsch and season with black pepper to taste; keep warm.

Serve with Dippables

Serve the fondue with bread cubes and vegetables, allowing everyone to dip and enjoy!

Enjoy the fun of dipping!

Pro Tips

For a smoother fondue, make sure to use cheese at room temperature. Experiment with additional ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

For a delightful spread, consider serving a variety of dippables. Apart from classic crusty bread, sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even small boiled potatoes make great additions. Apples and pears can add a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese. If you want to get creative, skewered meats or seafood also pair well with this fondue, just ensure they are cooked through before dipping.

Create a fun and interactive dining experience by setting up a fondue station where guests can choose their favorites. Provide a mix of dippables; this not only adds flavor but also visual appeal. Don't forget to offer a selection of dips alongside the fondue, such as a tangy mustard or a fresh herb vinaigrette, to complement the creamy cheese.

Storing and Reheating Fondue

If you have leftover fondue, store it in an airtight container once it has cooled to room temperature. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use a double boiler or return it gently to a fondue pot over low heat, stirring constantly to restore its smooth texture. If the cheese has thickened, add a splash of wine or cream to help bring it back to life.

For make-ahead options, consider preparing your cheese mixture and storing it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, all you need to do is heat the wine and melt the cheese mixture together. This can save you time during dinner parties while still allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can mix different cheeses like Gruyère and Emmental for a unique taste.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Crusty bread, soft vegetables, apples, and even cooked meats are great options.

→ How can I keep the fondue warm during the meal?

Use a fondue pot with a heating element or a small flame underneath to maintain warmth.

→ Can I make this fondue vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just ensure the white wine is vegetarian-friendly and skip the kirsch if desired.