Fondue with Fontina Cheese

Name: Fondue with Fontina Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Fontina cheese, grated; 100g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Fresh bread, cut into cubes; Vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots), cut into bite-sized pieces

Highlighted under: Oven Planning

I adore making fondue, especially with the rich, creamy taste of Fontina cheese. It’s a delightful dish that brings everyone together, perfect for cozy nights in or celebratory gatherings. The way the cheese melts and blends with a splash of white wine creates a luxurious dip that’s simply irresistible. Pairing it with fresh bread, vegetables, and even some fruits makes the whole experience even more enjoyable. If you want an indulgent treat that's sure to impress, this fondue is definitely the answer.

Created by

Questa Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:54:41.315Z

My first encounter with fondue was during a chilly winter evening, and let me tell you, it was love at first bite! The Fontina cheese melted smoothly, which is key for the perfect fondue texture. I experimented with different wine varieties and discovered that a dry white wine enhances the cheese flavor, making this dish unforgettable.

For a fun twist, I like to add some garlic and fresh herbs to the cheese mix, elevating the overall taste. What I've learned is to keep the heat low to prevent the cheese from clumping. Enjoying this with a group makes it a memorable culinary experience!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Luxurious melty texture that’s addictively delicious
Perfectly balanced flavors with a hint of wine
A fun and interactive dining experience with friends

Choosing the Right Cheese

When making fondue, the choice of cheese is critical to achieving that creamy, melty texture. Fontina cheese is a traditional choice due to its wonderful melting properties and nutty flavor. Gruyère enhances the fondue with its sharpness and complexity. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute Emmental for Gruyère, which will still provide a lovely melt, though the flavor profile might shift slightly.

Make sure to grate the cheeses finely before mixing with cornstarch. This helps them melt uniformly and prevents clumping. Using a blend of cheeses not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the fondue’s silky consistency. If you find your cheese mixture has clumped together, gradually adding warm wine while stirring can help smooth it out.

Wine Choice and Technique

The type of white wine used can greatly influence the flavor of your fondue. A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, works well because its acidity balances the richness of the cheeses. Avoid sweet wines, as they can make the fondue cloying. Heat the wine gently; if it boils, it can affect the melting process of the cheese, resulting in a grainy texture instead of a smooth, creamy dip.

Another tip is to add the cheese to the wine mixture gradually while continuously stirring. This ensures that the cheese integrates well without lumping together. The fondue is ready when it becomes glossy and flows easily from your fork, usually within 5-10 minutes of adding the cheese.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start your fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Fontina cheese, grated
100g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Fresh bread, cut into cubes
Vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots), cut into bite-sized pieces

Once you have everything ready, you can start making your fondue!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a delightful fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

In a mixing bowl, toss the grated Fontina and Gruyère cheeses with cornstarch. This helps keep the cheese from clumping when melted.

Heat the Wine

In a fondue pot or a heavy saucepan, add the white wine and minced garlic. Heat gently over medium-low heat until warm.

Melt the Cheese

Slowly add the cheese mixture to the warm wine, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more wine.

Serve

Once the cheese is fully melted and smooth, transfer the pot to a fondue stand with a candle underneath to keep warm. Serve with bread and vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your fondue while it's warm and gooey!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a dash of nutmeg to the cheese for enhanced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful complete meal, pair your fondue with an assortment of dips. Freshly baked bread cubes are a classic choice. You might also consider adding bite-sized vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even cooked potatoes, which can provide a satisfying contrast to the rich cheese.

Don’t overlook fruit as a unique dipper—diced apples or pears can add a refreshing sweetness that balances the savory cheese. Arrange everything on a large platter or board for a beautiful presentation, and make sure to have plenty of fondue forks or bamboo skewers for easy dipping.

Storing and Reheating

If you have any leftovers, allow the fondue to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating fondue can be a little tricky; it’s best to do it slowly over low heat to avoid curdling. Stir in a splash of wine or milk while reheating to restore its smooth texture.

For an even smoother consistency, you can whisk the fondue while gently warming it; this will help integrate any parts that may have solidified. Always keep an eye on it to prevent the cheese from scorching, which can affect both flavor and texture—nobody wants burnt fondue!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! While Fontina is recommended, you can try Gruyère or Emmental for a different flavor.

→ What should I dip into the fondue?

Bread is traditional, but you can also use vegetables, fruits, or even cooked meats for variety.

→ How do I reheat leftover fondue?

Gently reheat the fondue on low heat, adding a splash of white wine or milk to restore its creamy texture.

→ Can fondue be made without wine?

Absolutely! You can use vegetable or chicken broth as a substitute for a non-alcoholic version.