Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Swiss cheese, shredded; 100g Gruyère cheese, shredded; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 garlic cloves, halved; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Fresh vegetables for dipping (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I’ve always been drawn to fondue as a social dish that combines great flavors with the joy of sharing. Fondue with Swiss cheese and garlic has become a cherished recipe in my gatherings, bringing both richness and warmth to the table. The creamy texture, complemented by fragrant garlic, creates an irresistible dip for crusty bread and fresh vegetables. It’s incredibly simple to make and results in a cozy atmosphere as everyone gathers around the pot, dipping and enjoying together. Perfect for winter nights or festive occasions, this fondue never fails to impress.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-13T19:49:21.587Z

In my early experiences with fondue, I learned that the right cheese makes all the difference. Swiss cheese is my go-to because it melts beautifully and creates that perfect creamy consistency. I once experimented by adding a splash of white wine and a pinch of nutmeg, which unexpectedly enhanced the flavor profile without overwhelming the classic garlic taste. Taste tests with my friends have shown that simple tweaks can elevate an already delightful dish!

One key to a successful fondue is to continually stir while it melts. This not only prevents the cheese from scorching but also helps mix in the garlic evenly. I find that using fresh garlic cloves instead of powder brings an amazing aroma and flavor. Trust me; your guests will be raving about it long after the last drop is gone.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly creamy texture with a delightful garlic kick
Perfect for sharing during cozy gatherings
A fun and interactive dining experience

      

The Role of Cheese

The combination of Swiss and Gruyère cheeses in this fondue is essential for creating that perfect creamy texture. Swiss cheese offers a mild, nutty flavor, while Gruyère adds depth with its rich, slightly sweet profile. Shredding the cheese is crucial as it allows for quicker melting; larger chunks might take longer and could result in a lumpy texture. For those looking for a more robust flavor, consider adding a bit of aged Gruyère or even a sprinkle of Emmental cheese in the mix.

Cheese quality matters significantly here. Using fresh, high-quality cheeses will enhance the flavor and consistency of your fondue. Avoid pre-grated cheeses, as they often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the melting process. When shopping, look for a cheese that feels soft and slightly elastic, which indicates freshness. If you find yourself in a pinch, other semi-hard cheeses like fontina or havarti can work, but they may alter the flavor profile.

Perfecting the Dip

To enhance your dipping experience, it's important to prepare your crusty bread properly. Opt for a good quality sourdough or baguette, as their crusty texture will hold up well against the creamy fondue. Cut the bread into cubes no larger than 1-inch to make for easy dipping. If you want to elevate your dipping game, consider toasting the bread lightly before serving; it adds an extra crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth cheese.

Fresh vegetables can offer a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese fondue. Think about using blanched broccoli, crisp bell peppers, or even raw carrots. For an interesting twist, try adding thinly sliced apples or pears alongside the veggies; the sweetness pairs delightfully with the savory cheese. Remember to prepare your dippers in advance, arranging them on a platter for an appealing presentation. This way, guests can easily grab and dip as they enjoy their fondue experience.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious fondue.

Ingredients for Fondue

200g Swiss cheese, shredded
100g Gruyère cheese, shredded
1 cup dry white wine
2 garlic cloves, halved
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Fresh vegetables for dipping (optional)

Get your fondue pot ready!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a creamy and delightful fondue.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the insides of your fondue pot with the halved garlic cloves to infuse the flavor. Discard the cloves afterward.

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded Swiss and Gruyère cheese with cornstarch. This will help keep the cheese from clumping.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the fondue pot and heat over medium heat until it begins to simmer, not boil.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Add the lemon juice and season with black pepper.

Serve

Keep the pot warm and enjoy by dipping crusty bread and vegetables into the cheese.

Enjoy your fondue with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For a smoother fondue, make sure your cheese is at room temperature before melting it. Additionally, stirring continuously while adding the cheese helps achieve a creamy consistency.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fondue separates or becomes greasy, you might have added the cheese too quickly or at too high of a temperature. To remedy this, reduce the heat and stir continuously as you incorporate the cheese. If it has already separated, try adding a teaspoon of lemon juice to help re-emulsify the mixture. The acidity can work wonders in bringing it back together.

In case your fondue is too thick, you can rescue it by adding a splash more of white wine or even a bit of vegetable broth. This should help restore the desired consistency while keeping the flavors intact. Conversely, if you find it too runny, try whisking in a bit of cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken it up. Just be sure to give it some time to cook after adding the cornstarch mixture until it thickens appropriately.

Make-Ahead Tips

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to get ahead of the game, you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance. Combine your shredded cheeses with cornstarch and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. This will cut down on prep time when you’re ready for your gathering. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before melting to ensure even melting.

You can also prep the garlic and lemon juice ahead of time. Simply keep the halved garlic cloves stored in a small container for easy access, and squeeze the lemon juice right before you need it. This way, when it’s time to melt the cheese, everything will be at your fingertips, allowing you to focus on the fun of mixing and dipping.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, combining different cheeses can add unique flavors. Just ensure they melt well, like Emmental or Fontina.

→ What can I dip in fondue?

Crusty bread, fresh vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers, and even cured meats work well with fondue.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently when ready to serve again.

→ Is fondue safe to eat if it’s been sitting out?

It’s best to keep fondue warm while serving. If it’s been sitting out for more than two hours, it’s safer to discard it.