Fondue with Gruyere and Herbs

Name: Fondue with Gruyere and Herbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g Gruyere cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 cloves garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Salt and pepper to taste; Bread cubes, for dipping

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Ideas

Every time I prepare this fondue with Gruyere and herbs, I’m reminded of cozy evenings spent with friends, sipping wine and sharing delicious bites. The creamy texture and the delectable blend of herbs add an aromatic touch that elevates the classic Swiss dish. I love how easy it is to whip up; all you need is some good cheese and fresh herbs. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a simple get-together, this fondue never fails to impress and create a warm atmosphere for conversation and laughter.

Created by

Allegra Stone

Last updated on 2026-01-11T15:21:35.291Z

Making fondue with Gruyere and herbs has become a cherished tradition in my home. The rich flavor of Gruyere blends harmoniously with fresh herbs like thyme and chives, creating an unforgettable experience. I’ve found that grating the cheese helps it melt smoothly, avoiding any clumps that can ruin the texture.

One particular evening, I experimented by adding a splash of white wine, which not only enhanced the flavor but also made the fondue more luxurious. The result was a creamy, flavorful dip that kept everyone coming back for more - it's a delightful centerpiece that sparks joy and conversation.

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Rich, creamy Gruyere paired with fresh herbs creates a delightful flavor experience
Perfect for gatherings, ensuring a fun, interactive dining experience
Easily customizable with different dippers like bread, vegetables, and fruits

      

The Role of Cheese

Choosing the right cheese is crucial for your fondue's success. Gruyere is known for its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, which adds depth to the dish. Emmental complements it with its mild, creamy characteristics, ensuring a smooth melt without clumping. When grating, I recommend using a box grater for a fine texture that helps the cheese melt evenly. Also, opt for high-quality, aged cheeses as they yield a richer taste in the final dish and provide a more sophisticated flavor profile.

If you're unable to find Gruyere or Emmental, consider substitutions like aged cheddar or Fontina, which can still offer good melting qualities. However, remember that they will change the flavor slightly. A good tip is to mix some gorgonzola for a tangy twist — just use about 100g to avoid overpowering the fondue's classic taste.

Perfecting the Melt

Achieving that creamy, glossy texture in your fondue requires careful temperature control. Begin with medium heat when warming the wine, avoiding a boil, as this can cause the cheese to seize up. Stir continuously as you add the cheese mixture; as it melts, you should see a smooth consistency forming within 5-10 minutes. If your fondue starts separating or appears grainy, turn down the heat and incorporate a splash of wine to revive the texture.

If you find the fondue is too thick, adding a bit more wine or water can help achieve the ideal dipping consistency. Aim for a velvety texture that coats your bread cubes without being overly runny — you want it to cling to your dippers nicely.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this delicious fondue!

Fondue Ingredients

300g Gruyere cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
2 cloves garlic, halved
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Salt and pepper to taste
Bread cubes, for dipping

You can also add different types of cheese depending on your preference!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect fondue.

Prepare the Cheese

In a medium bowl, combine the grated Gruyere and Emmental cheese with cornstarch. This will help prevent the cheese from clumping when melted.

Infuse Flavor

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic cloves for extra flavor. Discard the garlic afterwards.

Melt the Cheese

Pour the white wine into the pot and heat it over medium heat. Gradually add the cheese mixture, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Add Herbs and Season

Mix in the chopped thyme and chives, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes.

Serve

Transfer the fondue pot to the table, keeping it warm. Serve with bread cubes for dipping.

Enjoy your delightful fondue experience!

Pro Tips

For a smoother consistency, add a little more wine if the mixture is too thick. You can also mix in different cheeses for varied flavors.

Serving Suggestions

While you can stick to the classic bread cubes for dipping, there’s a whole world of accompaniments waiting to enhance your fondue experience. Fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli or cauliflower add a delightful crunch and color to the platter. If you're feeling adventurous, fruits such as apple slices or grapes bring a sweet contrast that complements the rich flavors of the cheese beautifully.

Considering dietary preferences? Ensure inclusivity by including gluten-free options, such as rice crackers or sliced bell peppers, so everyone at the table can join in on the fun. The key is to offer a variety of textures and flavors, ensuring a memorable fondue experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning a gathering, preparing cheese fondue ahead of time can save you stress. You can mix the cheese and cornstarch together in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just remember to leave your fresh herbs out until you're ready to heat the fondue. Once made, fondue is best enjoyed immediately but can be stored in the fridge for up to three days if you cover it tightly.

Reheating fondue can be tricky; do so gently on the stove over low heat while stirring in a splash of white wine to revitalize its smoothness. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to an undesirable texture. Enjoy your leftovers with an array of new dippers for a delightful second round!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cheeses besides Gruyere?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like Fontina or Gouda, but Gruyere and Emmental provide a classic flavor.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Bread cubes, vegetables like broccoli and carrots, or even fruits like apples and pears work beautifully.

→ How do I keep my fondue warm?

Use a fondue pot with a built-in heat source, or keep it on the stove at a low temperature.

→ Is it possible to make this fondue ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and gently reheat it with added wine.