Fondue with Gruyere and Emmental

Name: Fondue with Gruyere and Emmental
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyere cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 200ml dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Vegetables (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers), cut into bite-sized pieces; Apple slices or pear slices for a sweet contrast

Highlighted under: Classic Meals

Whenever I think of a cozy gathering with friends, a pot of Fondue with Gruyere and Emmental instantly comes to mind. I love the way the rich, nutty flavors meld together, creating a deliciously creamy dip that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, fresh vegetables, and even ripe fruits. The best part is how simple it is to prepare, making it perfect for both casual soirées and festive celebrations. I find that the combination of these two cheeses brings a delightful depth to the experience, ensuring everyone leaves happy and satisfied.

Created by

Opal Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:55:34.742Z

After countless attempts at perfecting my fondue technique, I realized that the key is in using the right combination of Gruyere and Emmental cheeses. I absolutely adore the balance of flavors when these cheeses are melted together. To make it even better, I always add a splash of dry white wine, which not only enhances the flavor but also helps create that signature silky texture.

The first time I served this fondue, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it. I paired it with a variety of dippables and was amazed at how well everything complemented each other. Remember, the best fondue is about experimenting with the right balance between the cheese, wine, and seasoning!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich flavors of melting Gruyere and Emmental cheeses
Perfectly creamy texture for dipping
Great for sharing with friends and family

The Importance of Cheese Selection

Choosing high-quality cheeses is crucial when making fondue, as it directly influences the flavor and texture of your dish. Gruyere and Emmental not only melt beautifully but also complement each other perfectly. Gruyere provides a rich, nutty flavor while Emmental adds a mild sweetness. If these cheeses are unavailable, you can substitute with a combination of Swiss cheese and aged cheddar for a similar effect. However, taste variations will occur, so it's worth seeking out the authentic varieties for the best experience.

When grating your cheese, opt for a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment to ensure even, fine shreds. This helps the cheese melt uniformly without clumping. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can cause a gritty texture in your fondue. To achieve a silky-smooth consistency, combining the cheese with cornstarch before melting ensures separation as it heats, leading to a glossy finish.

Perfecting Your Fondue Technique

The key to a successful fondue lies in managing the heat. Start heating the white wine on medium, and once it's warmed, don’t let it boil, as high temperatures can result in tough cheese and a grainy texture. Gradually add the cheese mixture while stirring continuously in a figure-eight motion; this method helps incorporate the cheese and prevents it from sticking to the pot's bottom. If you notice the mixture clumping, lower the heat further and add a splash more wine to help smooth it out.

Serving fondue requires a bit of finesse as well. To keep your fondue warm and melty while enjoying it, use a low flame or a candle underneath the pot. This prevents the cheese from solidifying and maintains its creamy texture over time. If you’re planning to make it ahead of time, allow the melted cheese to cool and then reheat on low heat, stirring in a little more wine to restore its consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful Fondue:

Ingredients

200g Gruyere cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
200ml dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Vegetables (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers), cut into bite-sized pieces
Apple slices or pear slices for a sweet contrast

Make sure to have your dippers ready for a delightful fondue experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the garlic halves and discard them afterward. This adds a subtle flavor to your cheese.

Mix the Cheeses

In a bowl, combine the grated Gruyere and Emmental cheeses with cornstarch. This helps prevent clumping when melting.

Heat the Wine

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

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the pot, stirring continuously until fully melted and smooth.

Season

Add black pepper to taste, adjusting it based on your preference.

Serve

Serve immediately with your favorite dippers like bread, veggies, and fruits.

Enjoy your delicious Fondue with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try mixing in a splash of kirsch (cherry brandy) before serving. Also, ensure you maintain a low heat to keep the fondue smooth and creamy throughout your meal.

Serving Suggestions

Fondue is highly versatile when it comes to dippers. While crusty bread is a classic choice, consider adding a variety of textures and flavors to your platter. Crisp vegetables such as blanched asparagus, carrots, or snap peas not only add color but also a refreshing crunch. For a sweet contrast, slices of apples or pears work beautifully, allowing you to enjoy the complexity of flavors in each bite.

Additionally, you can experiment with different themes for your fondue event. For instance, an Italian-inspired selection could include sliced salami, olives, and cherry tomatoes for dipping. On the other hand, a Mediterranean touch with pita chips, hummus, and roasted red peppers provides a delightful twist to the traditional fondue experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftover fondue, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, place the fondue back into a saucepan over low heat. To revive the texture, gradually stir in some additional white wine or a splash of milk as you heat it up, which helps to restore the creamy consistency without burning it.

Keep in mind that fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but if you wish to prepare it in advance, consider making the cheese mixture and storing it separately from the wine. On the day of serving, heat the wine as instructed and then add the cheese mixture for a quick and easy preparation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different cheeses for fondue?

Yes! While Gruyere and Emmental are traditional, you can experiment with other melting cheeses like Fontina or even cheddar.

→ What should I dip in the fondue?

Bread cubes, fresh vegetables, and even fruits like apples and pears work beautifully for dipping.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

You can refrigerate leftover fondue in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove while stirring until smooth.

→ Is fondue gluten-free?

The cheese and wine used are gluten-free. Just ensure your dippers, like bread, are gluten-free if needed.