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; 1 clove garlic, halved; 300ml dry white wine; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper; Crusty bread, cut into cubes

Highlighted under: Authentic Global Cuisine Collection

I absolutely love making fondue with Gruyere and Emmental! There's something so cozy about gathering friends and family around a bubbling pot of melted cheese. The nutty flavors of Gruyere combined with the smooth, creamy texture of Emmental create the perfect dip for crusty bread. I've experimented with various recipes, but this particular blend produces an irresistibly creamy consistency and rich flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether it's a chilly evening or a special occasion, this fondue is a delightful treat that brings joy to any gathering.

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:53:34.825Z

During one of our family gatherings, I decided to treat everyone to fondue. I meticulously chose Gruyere and Emmental for their unique flavors. The outcome was a rich, gooey delight that made for a perfect communal dish.

I discovered that adding a splash of white wine not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve that perfect velvety texture. It was a game changer! Watching everyone dip their bread and enjoy was a moment I will cherish forever.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy blend of Gruyere and Emmental for a rich taste
Perfect for social gatherings and cozy nights in
Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser

Choosing the Right Cheese

The choice of cheese is crucial in achieving a perfect fondue. Gruyere brings a nutty flavor and ideal meltability, while Emmental lends creaminess and a slightly sweet undertone. Always opt for high-quality, aged cheeses for optimal flavor. Avoid pre-grated cheese as it contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your fondue. You can experiment with a blend of different cheeses, such as adding some aged cheddar or a splash of blue cheese for an exciting twist, but ensure they melt well.

If you can’t find Gruyere or Emmental, Swiss cheese or a mild, melty cheddar can serve as substitutes. However, the unique flavors may shift slightly, so it’s worth testing combinations if you decide to swap out the originals. Remember, the balance between nuttiness and creaminess is key to the fondue experience, so choose substitutes that bring those qualities.

Perfecting Texture and Consistency

Achieving the right consistency is essential for a great fondue. After adding the cheese mixture to the simmering wine, stir slowly and continuously with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant silicone spatula. This not only helps incorporate the cheese evenly but also prevents it from clumping or becoming grainy. Look for the fondue to become a smooth, glossy mixture that pulls away from the sides of the pot after about 5-7 minutes of stirring.

If your cheese fondue becomes too thick, you can adjust its texture by adding a little more warm white wine, one tablespoon at a time, stirring well until it reaches your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer gently for an additional minute to help it thicken up. Pay attention to the heat; keeping it at a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil is the key to preventing separation of the cheese.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

For an outstanding fondue experience, select a variety of dippables beyond just crusty bread. Consider including blanched vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower, bite-sized roasted potatoes, and even apple slices for a sweet contrast. Arrange these items on a large platter for guests to mix and match their dippings. It's also fun to set out some cured meats, like prosciutto or salami, which provide a savory balance to the rich, creamy cheese.

If you want to elevate your fondue night, offer a selection of dipping sauces, such as a tangy mustard or a fresh herb chimichurri, to enhance the flavors. I find that a light sprinkle of fresh herbs or even a drizzle of truffle oil on top before serving can add a gourmet touch, turning this simple dish into a showstopper for your next gathering.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyere cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
300ml dry white wine
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper
Crusty bread, cut into cubes

Be sure to prepare your bread ahead of time for dipping!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove. This will infuse a subtle garlic flavor into the cheese.

Mix the Cheese

In a bowl, toss together the grated Gruyere and Emmental cheese with cornstarch to prevent clumping.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the pot and heat over medium flame until it begins to simmer.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering wine, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and creamy.

Season and Serve

Add freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping!

Enjoy dipping your bread into the gooey, melted cheese!

Pro Tips

For a more robust flavor, you can add a splash of Kirsch, a cherry brandy, during melting.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some elements in advance. The cheese mixture can be pre-grated and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. Remember to toss the cheese with cornstarch before storing, as this helps prevent clumping. You can also prepare the dipping items ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the fun of fondue with minimal last-minute preparations.

If you have leftovers, allow the fondue to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly until melted and creamy again. Avoid microwaving it, as this can lead to separation and an undesirable texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fondue is too stringy or separates, it may not have been stirred enough while heating or may have been heated too quickly. To remedy this, incorporate a bit of cold wine or a splash of water while stirring over low heat. This can help bring it back together and restore the desired silky texture. Additionally, ensuring that your cheeses are fresh and at room temperature before melting can make a significant difference in achieving that perfect consistency.

In case your fondue ends up too thick, you can rescue it by gradually drizzling in a little warm wine while constantly stirring. If it's too thin, let it sit over low heat for a short while to achieve a thicker result. Slight adjustments can make a big impact, so don't be afraid to experiment a bit during the melting process!

Creative Variations

While the classic combination of Gruyere and Emmental is a favorite, don’t hesitate to explore other flavors. Adding a splash of your favorite liqueur, such as Kirsch, can introduce a delightful twist that complements the cheese beautifully. You might also consider infusing the wine with herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic kick.

For a more robust flavor profile, try stirring in sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted garlic after the cheese has melted. These additions not only enhance the taste but also provide interesting texture and depth to your fondue, making it a unique experience each time you serve it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with cheeses like Fontina or even add some blue cheese for extra flavor.

→ What can I dip besides bread?

Vegetables like blanched broccoli, carrots, or even boiled potatoes work wonderfully as dippers.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

→ Is fondue safe to eat if it cools down?

If it cools down, you can reheat it gently. However, always ensure it's kept at a safe temperature when serving.