Fondue with Gruyere and Emmental

Name: Fondue with Gruyere and Emmental
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyere cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 clove garlic, halved; 300ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon kirsch (cherry brandy); Freshly ground black pepper; Nutmeg, for seasoning; Bread cubes for dipping

Highlighted under: Cozy Planning

I absolutely love making fondue with Gruyere and Emmental. It’s such a delightful treat to gather around the table with friends and family, dipping various ingredients into the warm, melted cheese. I find that the blend of these two cheeses results in a wonderfully smooth and rich flavor. This dish is great for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering. Let's dive into how to create the perfect cheesy experience together!

Created by

Blythe Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:45:34.837Z

When I first tried fondue, I was enchanted by the communal experience it creates. The act of sharing and dipping can be so joyful! I found that using equal parts Gruyere and Emmental provides the perfect balance between nuttiness and creaminess, making every bite a pleasure.

One tip I learned is to make sure your cheese is finely grated, as it melts evenly and quickly. Pairing it with some crusty bread and a sprinkle of nutmeg really enhances the overall flavor. Trust me, your guests will be raving about this delicious treat!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that’s utterly satisfying
A delightful combination of flavors from Gruyere and Emmental
Perfect dish for social gatherings or cozy nights in

The Importance of Choosing Quality Cheese

Using high-quality French Gruyere and Emmental is crucial for achieving the rich, creamy texture that defines a great fondue. These cheeses melt wonderfully, creating that quintessentially smooth finish. Opt for a block of cheese rather than pre-grated options, as pre-grated cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder the melting process. Look for cheeses that are well-aged for a deeper flavor, as the aging process enhances their nutty, complex notes.

When grating your cheeses, ensure they are at room temperature. Cold cheese can clump together and create a less desirable texture. I recommend grating them just before using to maintain freshness and maximize flavor. A box grater or a food processor works best for this task, ensuring that your cheese is uniformly grated for even melting.

Tips for Perfect Fondue Consistency

Achieving the right consistency for your fondue is key. When melting the cheese, keep the heat low to prevent it from clumping or becoming grainy. Stir continuously and patiently; in about 10 to 15 minutes, you should achieve a glossy, lump-free sauce that clings to your bread cubes without being overly thick. If it does thicken too much, simply add a little more wine or lemon juice to loosen it up. This technique ensures that you maintain that delightful dip experience.

The addition of cornstarch combined with kirsch not only helps in thickening the mixture but also prevents the cheese from separating as it stands. If you plan on making the fondue ahead of time, keep it warm on a low flame, stirring occasionally. It can also be reheated gently on the stove if it cools down, again adding a splash of wine or lemon juice to restore its creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your fondue:

Cheese Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyere cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
300ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon kirsch (cherry brandy)
Freshly ground black pepper
Nutmeg, for seasoning
Bread cubes for dipping

Make sure everything is prepped before you start melting the cheese!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of the fondue pot with the halved garlic clove for flavor. Discard the garlic after rubbing.

Melt the Cheese

In the pot, combine the grated Gruyere and Emmental. Add the white wine and lemon juice, and heat on low while stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Thicken the Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with kirsch. Stir this mixture into the melted cheese until combined and smooth.

Season the Fondue

Add freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of nutmeg to taste. Keep the pot on a low flame to maintain the temperature.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the fondue immediately with fresh bread cubes for dipping. Enjoy the creamy goodness!

Enjoy each bite of this cheesy delight!

Pro Tips

Make sure to keep the fondue pot heated on low to prevent the cheese from separating. Always stir in a figure-eight motion for an even melt.

Serving Suggestions

While classic bread cubes are a staple for dipping, feel free to get creative with your accompaniments! Fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli, cherry tomatoes, or bell pepper strips make for crisp, enjoyable dippers that contrast beautifully with the rich cheese. For meat lovers, slices of cured meats such as prosciutto or salami can add a lovely umami punch.

Don’t forget the importance of presentation. Serving your fondue alongside an array of colorful dipping options on a rustic wooden platter creates a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. This is also an excellent opportunity to provide selection preferences to your guests by varying the types of bread—choose from baguette, sourdough, or even a flavored bread like garlic or herb.

Dietary Modifications and Considerations

For those who are lactose intolerant or seeking a dairy-free option, there are now excellent cheese alternatives available that melt similarly to traditional cheese. Look for brands marketed as 'meltable' non-dairy cheeses that incorporate a blend of nuts and starches. While the flavor profile may differ, these substitutes can still provide a satisfying fondue experience when seasoned appropriately.

If you're crafting a gluten-free fondue, simply ensure that the bread cubes you select are certified gluten-free. This allows everyone at the table to participate fully in the cheese experience without concern. Consider pairing your fondue with naturally gluten-free options like sliced grilled zucchini or gluten-free crackers for a complete platter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

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

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Besides bread, you can dip vegetables, fruits like apples, or even cooked meats for a unique twist.

→ Do I need a special pot for fondue?

A traditional fondue pot is best, but any heavy bottom pot can work too. Just ensure it can be heated gently.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be reheated gently on the stove.