Fondue with Alpine Cheese Blend

Name: Fondue with Alpine Cheese Blend
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 clove garlic, halved; 300ml dry white wine; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Fresh bread, cut into cubes (for dipping); Vegetables and fruits, for variety

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love indulging in a warm, gooey pot of cheese fondue, especially when it's made with a heavenly Alpine cheese blend. The combination of Gruyère and Emmental creates a rich flavor that's perfectly complemented by a splash of white wine and a hint of garlic. There's something incredibly comforting about dipping fresh bread into that bubbling cheese, and every bite transports me to a cozy ski lodge. Whether it's for a gathering or a cozy night in, this fondue is always a hit and never fails to impress!

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:25:09.677Z

When I first attempted making the fondue at home, I was amazed at how simple yet impressive it turned out to be. I chose an Alpine cheese blend because it melts beautifully, creating that dreamy, stretchy texture that's perfect for dipping. After experimenting with various wines, I found that a dry white wine elevates the flavor without overpowering the cheese.

I also discovered that adding a bit of cornstarch helps keep the fondue smooth and creamy. The method works wonders, especially when you make sure to stir constantly while heating. Serving it with a variety of dippers, like cubed bread, apples, and vegetables, makes for a delightful experience that everyone loves!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Deliciously rich and savory flavors from the Alpine cheese blend.
A perfect melt that creates the ideal dipping experience.
Great for gatherings, bringing family and friends together over a pot of goodness.

      

The Art of Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheese is crucial for a perfect fondue. Gruyère offers a nutty depth, while Emmental contributes a mild sweetness and excellent meltability. For a variation, consider adding a sprinkle of aged cheddar for sharpness or Fontina for creaminess. It's important to use high-quality cheese with a good fat content to ensure smooth melting and a luxurious texture.

Pre-grated cheese can have additives that affect melting; if possible, buy whole blocks and grate them yourself. This enhances the fondue’s texture and richness. When mixing the cheeses with cornstarch, don't rush it. The cornstarch not only helps to stabilize the fondue but also ensures that the cheese doesn’t clump together, creating that smooth, velvety finish.

Perfecting Your Fondue Technique

Using a gentle simmer is key to achieving the right consistency in your fondue. Too high heat can cause the cheese to become gritty or separate. I recommend heating the wine slowly while stirring occasionally to build a gentle bubble. Pay attention to the mixture's appearance; it should start to slightly froth around the edges before you add the cheese.

When incorporating the cheese, do so gradually, allowing each addition to fully melt before adding more. This will help you monitor the texture and prevent overcooking. If your fondue is too thick, whisk in a bit more wine or a splash of broth until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it's too thin, continue heating until it thickens up.

Ingredients

For the Fondue

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
300ml dry white wine
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh bread, cut into cubes (for dipping)
Vegetables and fruits, for variety

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese

In a mixing bowl, toss the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheese with cornstarch. This will help keep the fondue smooth.

Prep the Pot

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

Start the Fondue

Add the wine and lemon juice to the pot, and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering wine, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Season with freshly ground black pepper.

Serve and Enjoy!

Keep the fondue warm over low heat. Serve with cubed bread and assorted dippers for a fun and interactive meal.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can experiment by adding a splash of kirsch or a pinch of nutmeg while melting the cheese.

Serving Suggestions

For an interactive experience, arrange a variety of dippers alongside your fondue pot. Fresh bread is traditional, but don't shy away from adding options like blanched vegetables, roasted potatoes, or even apple slices for contrast. Remember that if you're dipping moist items like fruits or veggies, ensure they're patted dry to prevent splattering in the cheese.

To keep the fondue from cooling too quickly, consider using a tabletop burner. If you don’t have one, a candle underneath the pot can maintain warmth without overcooking the cheese, allowing guests to enjoy a leisurely dipping experience.

Make-Ahead Tips

While fondue is best served fresh, you can prepare elements in advance. Grate your cheese a day ahead, mixing it with cornstarch and storing it in an airtight container to prevent clumping. You can also smash the garlic and combine it with the lemon juice, keeping it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

If you have leftovers, simply cool the fondue and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of wine or broth to restore creaminess while stirring continuously. Avoid the microwave; it can lead to uneven heating and separation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match cheeses, but ensure that they melt well together for the best results.

→ What can I dip in cheese fondue?

Bread, vegetables, apples, and even cooked meats work wonderfully as dippers!

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

You can store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge for a day or two. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Is fondue suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Absolutely! Simply serve with gluten-free dippers like fresh vegetables and gluten-free bread.