Fondue with Garlic Herb Cheese

Name: Fondue with Garlic Herb Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, shredded; 200g Emmental cheese, shredded; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Cornstarch for thickening; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Ideas

I love hosting gatherings, and a fondue with garlic herb cheese has become my go-to dish for creating a cozy atmosphere. The rich, gooey texture combined with aromatic herbs elevates any occasion. I find that using a blend of cheeses, along with fresh garlic and herbs, adds depth and flavor that keeps everyone reaching for more. Serve with crusty bread, fresh vegetables, or even bite-sized meats, and you'll have a delicious and interactive meal that everyone enjoys!

Created by

Allegra Stone

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:45:35.181Z

Last winter, I decided to throw a fondue night with friends to warm us up. Trying out a base of creamy cheeses with garlic and herbs was a hit! I discovered that using a bit of white wine helped to smooth out the consistency, making it easier to dip our bread. I added a touch of nutmeg for an unexpected warmth that really rounded out the flavors.

One of my favorite parts is the dipping experience. We had everything from crunchy vegetables to soft breads, and watching everyone personalize their bites was a joy. Using a fork to mix in different flavors adds an element of fun that traditional meals just can't match. It became not just dinner, but an adventure!

        Here’s Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, rich cheese blend with aromatic herbs
Perfect for social gatherings and interactive dining
Easily customizable with different dippers

      

Understanding the Cheese Blend

Selecting the right cheeses is crucial for achieving that creamy, decadent fondue texture. Gruyère brings a nutty sweetness, while Emmental adds a slightly tangy bite that balances the richness. Both varieties melt beautifully, creating a harmonious blend perfect for dipping. To maintain this ideal texture, it's essential to shred the cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded versions, which often contain anti-caking agents that can disrupt the melting process and result in a grainy fondue.

The cornstarch addition acts as a secret weapon against separation, ensuring your fondue remains smooth and creamy. Consider using a fine-grade cornstarch for better integration. If you're looking for a unique twist, feel free to swap one of the cheeses with a smoked variety or a sharp cheddar for an intriguing depth of flavor. Just remember to adjust the amount of lemon juice and seasonings, as sharper cheeses can overshadow the delicate herbs.

Serving and Dipping Ideas

While crusty bread is a traditional favorite for this fondue, consider diversifying your dippers for an exciting experience. Fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli, carrot sticks, or bell pepper slices provide a delightful crunch and a slightly sweet contrast to the rich cheese. Bite-sized meats such as grilled chicken or poached shrimp also pair wonderfully, soaking up the cheesy goodness. I often prepare a platter with an assortment of dippers for my guests to choose from—this interactive element adds to the fun!

To keep the fondue at the perfect dipping temperature, remember that a low and steady heat is key. If using a fondue pot with a burner, adjust the flame to keep it just warm enough to maintain that gooey consistency. For those who want to prepare the fondue ahead of time, you can gently reheat it over low heat with a splash of additional white wine to recapture its creamy texture, making it easy to entertain without last-minute stress.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, shredded
200g Emmental cheese, shredded
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Cornstarch for thickening
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prepare your dippers while the cheese is melting!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a smooth and delicious fondue!

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, combine the shredded Gruyère and Emmental cheeses. Add cornstarch and toss to coat the cheese evenly, which helps in keeping the fondue smooth.

Cook the Garlic

In a fondue pot or a heavy-bottomed saucepan, sauté the minced garlic in a little olive oil over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Make the Fondue

Pour in the white wine and bring it to a simmer. Gradually add the cheese mixture, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Add Herbs and Season

Stir in the chopped thyme, rosemary, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Continue to heat gently for a couple of minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the fondue to a serving dish, and serve immediately with your choice of dippers.

Don’t forget to keep the fondue pot over low heat to keep the cheese melted while you enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a deeper flavor, try adding a splash of brandy or experimenting with different cheese blends. Don’t forget to keep stirring to avoid scorching the cheese.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover fondue can be a delightful treat if stored correctly. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of wine or milk to restore creaminess. Stir continuously until heated through and smooth again, taking care not to overheat, which can lead to a rubbery texture.

If you're aiming to enjoy fondue later, consider making the cheese mixture ahead of time while keeping the wine and herbs separate until you're ready to serve. This way, you can skip the last-minute preparations and still achieve that fresh, melty texture. Just remember to incorporate the wine and herbs into the melted cheese to keep the flavors lively.

Flavor Variations

Experimenting with herbs can elevate your fondue to new heights. Besides thyme and rosemary, consider using fresh chives or even a touch of truffle oil for a luxurious finish. For a spicy twist, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the fondue mix, which will complement the creamy texture beautifully. Each herb or seasoning choice can subtly shift the overall profile, creating a unique dining experience each time.

For those seeking a vegetarian-friendly option, simply omit any meat-based additions during serving. Additionally, substituting vegetable broth for the white wine will maintain depth while catering to different dietary preferences. Always taste as you go—ingredients can vary in potency, so adjusting to achieve the perfect balance is essential for an unforgettable fondue experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ What can I dip in fondue?

Bread cubes, fresh vegetables, cured meats, and even fruits like apples or grapes work great for dipping!

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in cheeses like cheddar or blue cheese for unique flavors.

→ How do I keep the fondue from hardening?

Serve the fondue warm and keep it over a low flame to maintain its consistency.

→ Can I prepare fondue in advance?

You can prepare the cheese mixture in advance, but it's best to melt it right before serving for the best texture.