Waadtländer Kassuppe
Vaud Cheese Soup
A rich and comforting cheese soup originating from the Vaud region of Switzerland. This hearty soup is made with a blend of local cheeses, leeks, and a touch of white wine, offering a savory and creamy experience.

🧂 Ingredients
- 50 g Butter
- 2 large Leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
- 40 g All-purpose flour
- 750 ml Vegetable broth
- 150 ml Dry white wine
- 150 g Gruyère cheese, grated
- 100 g Vacherin Fribourgeois cheese, grated
- 100 ml Heavy cream
- to taste Salt
- to taste White pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh chives, chopped, for garnish
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and sauté until softened, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not let them brown.
💡 Tip: Ensure the leeks are thoroughly cleaned of any grit before slicing. - 2
Sprinkle the flour over the leeks and stir well to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is lightly golden.
💡 Tip: Cooking the flour for a minute or two removes the raw flour taste. - 3
Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth and white wine, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly.
💡 Tip: Adding liquid gradually helps create a smooth soup base. - 4
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the leeks to become very tender.
💡 Tip: Simmering on low heat prevents the soup from scorching. - 5
In a separate bowl, combine the grated Gruyère and Vacherin Fribourgeois cheeses. Gradually add the cheese to the simmering soup, stirring constantly until fully melted and the soup is smooth. Do not boil the soup after adding the cheese.
💡 Tip: Adding cheese slowly and stirring prevents it from clumping. - 6
Stir in the heavy cream. Season the soup with salt and white pepper to taste. Heat through gently without boiling.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning carefully, as cheese can be salty. - 7
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped chives before serving.
💡 Tip: Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a smoother soup, you can blend it with an immersion blender before adding the cream and cheese.
- ✓If you can't find Vacherin Fribourgeois, a good quality Emmental or Appenzeller cheese can be used as a substitute.
- ✓A splash of kirsch (cherry brandy) can be added for an extra layer of flavor.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add croutons or toasted bread cubes to the soup for added texture.
- Incorporate finely diced potatoes or celery along with the leeks for a more substantial soup.
- A pinch of nutmeg can be added for warmth.