Fondue with Gruyere and Emmental

Name: Fondue with Gruyere and Emmental
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyere cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Vegetables (like broccoli, carrots) for dipping; Optional: apples or pears for a sweet contrast

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making fondue with Gruyere and Emmental on cozy nights with friends or family. There’s just something magical about dipping crusty bread into a pot of melted cheese. The rich, nutty flavors of Gruyere combined with the creamy, slightly salty taste of Emmental create a perfect harmony that warms the heart and soul. Plus, it’s a wonderfully interactive meal that always sparks great conversations and laughter around the table. Make sure to prepare enough bread and dippers to enjoy every last drop of this delicious cheese concoction!

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:52:09.767Z

When I first experimented with this fondue recipe, I was amazed by how simple yet impressive it turned out. The traditional combination of Gruyere and Emmental creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. I discovered that using a mix of white wine and a splash of lemon juice not only enhances the taste but also helps prevent the cheese from becoming too stringy. With just the right amount of heat and stirring, you’ll end up with a luscious, smooth cheese blend that's perfect for dipping.

One key tip I've learned is to let the cheese mixture sit for a few minutes after melting. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and you can always reheat it gently if needed. Serve it with a variety of dippers like crusty bread, veggies, and even apple slices for an extra twist. You'll find that everyone loves to choose their favorites and create their combinations while enjoying an evening together.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and nutty flavor profile from the cheese blend
Interactive dining experience that brings everyone together
Perfect for cold nights or special gatherings

      

Understanding Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheeses is crucial to achieving that signature fondue flavor. Gruyere is known for its rich and nutty profile, which melts beautifully, providing a robust base. Emmental, on the other hand, adds a creamy and slightly salty touch that balances the mixture. I recommend using high-quality, aged cheeses for a more intense flavor. Grating the cheese helps it melt evenly; larger chunks can result in clumps and uneven melting, so take your time to prepare them properly.

If you can't find Gruyere or Emmental, consider substitutions like Comté or Jarlsberg, both of which bring similar meltability and flavor nuances. However, don't overlook the importance of a cheese that can stretch. Avoid pre-shredded cheese; these often contain anti-caking agents that prevent them from melting smoothly. Instead, freshly grated varieties provide that desirable creamy texture.

Tips for Perfecting Your Fondue

Temperature control is essential when preparing fondue. You should heat the wine over medium-low heat to avoid boiling it; boiling can alter the flavors and prevent the cheese from melting properly. Once the cheese is added, adjust the heat as needed—if you notice it starting to bubble aggressively, lower it to keep a consistent creamy melt and prevent burning.

Stirring continuously while adding cheese is another key step. This not only helps incorporate the cheeses uniformly but also prevents scorching and ensures a smooth texture. You’re looking for a glossy, velvety consistency. If your fondue becomes too thick, add a splash more wine or some warm milk to reach your desired texture.

Serving and Dipping Suggestions

When it comes to dippers, variety enriches the experience. Crusty bread is a classic choice, but consider adding a mix of textures. Fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli or carrots provide a crunchy contrast, while sweet fruits such as apples or pears offer a delightful counterbalance to the rich cheese. If you're feeling adventurous, try meats like charcuterie or pre-cooked sausage cubes for added flavor.

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh; however, if you have leftovers, keep the fondue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, gently warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little wine or milk as necessary to restore consistency. If it separates, stirring vigorously while heating can help bring it back together. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations!

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyere cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Vegetables (like broccoli, carrots) for dipping
Optional: apples or pears for a sweet contrast

Instructions

Prepare the Pot

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

Heat Wine and Cheese

Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the pot and heat over medium-low heat. Gradually add the grated Gruyere and Emmental cheese, stirring constantly.

Thicken the Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little wine to make a paste. Add this to the cheese mixture to help thicken. Continue stirring until smooth and creamy.

Serve

Once the cheese is fully melted and smooth, season with black pepper. Serve hot with your choice of dippers.

Pro Tips

For a more robust flavor, you can experiment by adding a splash of brandy or adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Storing and Reheating Fondue

Leftover fondue can be a delightful treat if stored properly. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. When reheating, avoid the microwave, as it can create uneven heat and affect the texture. Instead, opt for a pot on low heat, adding a bit of white wine or milk to help restore its creaminess. Stir continuously until it’s heated through and smooth again.

It's important to note that after reheating, the consistency may differ slightly from when it was freshly made. If your fondue thickens too much, don't hesitate to add more liquid gradually until you achieve the desired creamy texture.

Making a Fondue for a Crowd

Scaling up your fondue recipe is quite simple. For every 200g of cheese, use an additional 1 cup of wine to maintain that perfect balance. Just ensure you have a pot large enough to accommodate the increase in volume. Keep in mind that larger amounts may require more time to heat, so adjust your cooking time and monitor the temperature closely to prevent burning.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider creating an assortment of dippers. You can include various types of bread, pickles, or even roasted sweet potatoes for a unique twist. This not only makes the fondue more visually appealing but also allows guests to be quite creative with their pairings!

Fondue Flavor Variations

While Gruyere and Emmental make an excellent base, you can explore variations by adding spices or herbs. A pinch of nutmeg or a splash of brandy can elevate the flavor profile significantly. For those who enjoy a kick, try incorporating a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to infuse some heat. Just remember to start small; you can always adjust later to suit your taste.

For a more gourmet twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, truffle oil, or roasted garlic into the fondue mixture. These additions can bring new depth and complexity to your fondue experience, making it even more memorable during cozy nights with friends and family.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cheeses for fondue?

Yes, you can mix different cheeses like Fontina or cheddar, but make sure to balance them with a creamy cheese.

→ What can I use for dipping?

Traditional dippers include bread cubes, but veggies, apples, and even pretzels are fantastic options!

→ How do I keep the fondue warm?

Use a low flame or a fondue burner to keep the cheese melted and at the perfect consistency throughout your meal.

→ Can I prepare the cheese mixture in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture a few hours ahead and reheat it gently before serving.