Classic Swiss Cheese Fondue
Switzerland's iconic communal dish - a pot of melted Gruyère, Emmentaler, and Appenzeller cheeses in white wine, perfect for dipping crusty bread. A delightful and interactive meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 170 g Gruyère cheese(shredded or cut into small cubes. Ensure it's at room temperature for easier melting.)
- 170 g Emmentaler cheese(shredded or cut into small cubes. Ensure it's at room temperature for easier melting.)
- 60 g Appenzeller cheese(shredded or cut into small cubes. Ensure it's at room temperature for easier melting.)
- 240 ml Dry white wine(Such as a Swiss Fendant, Pinot Gris, or Sauvignon Blanc. Avoid sweet wines.)
- 1 tsp Lemon juice(Freshly squeezed is best.)
- 2 tbsp Cornstarch or all-purpose flour(Used to help emulsify the cheese and prevent it from becoming stringy.)
- 1 tbsp Kirsch (cherry brandy)(Optional, but adds authentic flavor. Can be omitted if preferred.)
- 1 clove Garlic(Halved, for rubbing the fondue pot.)
- 1 loaf Crusty bread(Cubed into bite-sized pieces for dipping. Sourdough or baguette works well. Day-old bread is ideal.)
- for serving Optional accompaniments(Such as boiled new potatoes, blanched broccoli florets, apple slices, or cured meats.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the fondue pot: Rub the inside of your fondue pot (caquelon) generously with the cut side of the garlic clove. Discard the garlic. This imparts a subtle garlicky aroma.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 2
Heat the liquid: Pour the dry white wine and lemon juice into the fondue pot. Heat gently over medium-low heat until it just begins to simmer around the edges. Do not boil vigorously.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Prepare the cheese mixture: In a separate bowl, toss the shredded Gruyère, Emmentaler, and Appenzeller cheeses with the flour (or cornstarch). Ensure the cheese is evenly coated. This coating helps prevent the cheese from clumping and creates a smoother fondue.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 4
Melt the cheese: Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering wine, a handful at a time, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or a whisk. Use a slow, steady zigzag or figure-eight motion, ensuring each addition of cheese is mostly melted before adding the next. Continue stirring until all the cheese is melted and the fondue is smooth and creamy, with no lumps. This should take about 8-10 minutes. The fondue should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 5
Finish and serve: Once the fondue is smooth, stir in the Kirsch (if using). Continue to stir gently for another minute. Transfer the fondue pot to its stand over a low flame or portable burner to keep it warm throughout the meal. Ensure the heat is low enough to keep the fondue melted and creamy, but not so high that it scorches or becomes oily.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 6
Serve immediately with cubed crusty bread and any desired accompaniments. Instruct guests to spear a piece of bread with their fondue fork and swirl it in the pot.
⏱️ N/A
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Stirring in a figure-eight or zigzag pattern helps to emulsify the cheese and create a smooth texture, preventing it from becoming stringy or breaking.
- ✓If the fondue appears too thick, stir in a tablespoon or two of warm white wine. If it seems too thin, continue to cook gently, stirring, for a few more minutes. If the fondue separates (becomes oily), a little extra lemon juice or a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a little cold water) can sometimes help to bring it back together.
- ✓Keep the fondue moving gently while eating to maintain its consistency and prevent a skin from forming.
- ✓Ensure all cheeses are at room temperature before shredding or cubing for the best melting results.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or white pepper for extra flavor.
- Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or small pieces of cured ham into the fondue.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as adding Comté, Raclette, or even a touch of blue cheese for a bolder flavor profile. Always aim for a good melting cheese as the base.