Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Swiss cheese, grated; 100g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Fresh bread for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore hosting gatherings, and nothing brings people together quite like a pot of bubbling fondue. This Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic is not just rich and creamy; it also has that perfect kick from the garlic that elevates every bite. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! With a few simple ingredients and some bread for dipping, I can serve a warm and inviting dish that has everyone chatting, laughing, and enjoying each other’s company around the table.

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:46:13.288Z

I’ve tried many variations of fondue, but the combination of Swiss cheese and garlic has a special place in my heart. The creamy texture of melted cheese contrasts perfectly with the crunchy bread, making every bite a satisfying experience. One tip I discovered is to rub the garlic clove on the pot before adding the cheese; it infuses a delightful flavor without overpowering the dish.

This fondue is a crowd-pleaser that sparks joy and conversation. Every time I serve it, I’m reminded of the warmth and connection food can bring. Plus, with some fresh herbs sprinkled on top, the presentation becomes simply irresistible!

        Why You Will Love This Fondue
        Rich, creamy texture that envelops every piece of bread
Subtle garlic flavor that perfectly complements the Swiss cheese
An interactive dining experience that's perfect for gatherings

      

The Art of Melting Cheese

Achieving the perfect melt is essential to a successful fondue. Both Swiss and Gruyère cheese contain fats that create a creamy texture, but they need to be melted properly to avoid clumping. Always use low heat to gradually raise the temperature of the cheese, stirring gently. If the heat is too high, the cheese can separate, resulting in a greasy mess. Aim for a smooth, glossy mixture that flows easily when dipped.

Cornstarch is a key ingredient in this fondue recipe, acting as an emulsifier to help combine the fat and liquid. It prevents the cheese from becoming stringy and ensures a uniform texture. If you don't have cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder as a substitute. Just remember to mix it with the wine before heating to prevent clumps.

Choosing the Right Bread

When it comes to dipping, the choice of bread can elevate your fondue experience. A crusty baguette or a sourdough loaf works wonderfully because their firm crusts hold up well against the molten cheese. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using ciabatta. You can also customize your fondue with other dippable items like blanched vegetables or even fruits like apples for an interesting twist.

To enhance the fondue experience, cut the bread into bite-sized cubes and allow them to sit at room temperature for a while before serving. This gives them a slight crust that will stay intact when dipped, making the cheese clinging process even more satisfying!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Swiss cheese, grated
100g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
1 cup dry white wine
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
Fresh bread for dipping

Make sure to have your favorite dips ready!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your fondue:

Prep the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the cut sides of the garlic clove to infuse flavor. Discard the garlic.

Mix the Ingredients

In the pot, combine the white wine, lemon juice, and cornstarch, stirring until the cornstarch is dissolved.

Heat and Melt

Gradually add the grated Swiss and Gruyère cheese, stirring constantly over low heat until melted and smooth.

Serve and Enjoy

Once melted, transfer the pot to a heat source on the table. Serve with fresh bread for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious fondue experience!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use a good quality dry white wine. You can also experiment with different cheeses for a unique fondue experience!

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to minimize pre-party stress, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time. Grate the Swiss and Gruyère cheeses and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a day or two. However, do not mix with the wine or cornstarch until you're ready to serve, as the moisture can affect the melting process.

Another make-ahead option is to prepare the garlic-infused pot in advance. Simply rub the garlic and store the pot in the refrigerator, then take it out to bring to room temperature before use to ensure a consistent melting temperature.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One of the most common pitfalls in cheese fondue is a lumpy or grainy texture. If this happens, it could be due to overheating or incorrect cheese proportions. If you find your fondue isn't melting smoothly, try whisking in a few additional splashes of white wine over low heat to help revive the mixture.

Another issue could be that the cheese is too thick or not adhering to the bread. If this occurs, you can thin the fondue with a little more wine or a splash of vegetable broth for a different flavor profile. This adjustment will help achieve that ideal consistency for dipping.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Fontina or Cheddar, but maintain a balance with melting cheeses.

→ What can I dip besides bread?

Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or even cooked potatoes work great as dippers.

→ How can I store leftovers?

You can store leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat slowly, adding a bit of wine to reincorporate the smoothness.

→ Is fondue a healthy choice?

While fondue can be indulgent, you can balance it out by serving it with plenty of fresh vegetables!