Fondue with Swiss Cheese and White Pepper

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and White Pepper
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 200ml dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, cut in half; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon white pepper; Fresh bread, cut into cubes

Highlighted under: Modern Cooking

I absolutely love the warmth and comfort that a pot of fondue brings to any gathering. This Swiss Cheese Fondue with a hint of white pepper is not only delicious but incredibly simple to make at home. The rich, gooey cheese paired with crusty bread creates a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for sharing. Plus, using high-quality cheese makes a noticeable difference in flavor, elevating the entire experience. I can guarantee that this fondue will be the highlight of your next dinner party!

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-14T04:21:35.368Z

Making fondue is not just about the cheese; it's about creating a memorable experience with friends and family. I learned that heating the wine and garlic before adding the cheese helps in achieving that perfectly smooth texture. The combination of Gruyère and Emmental gives the fondue a nutty and rich flavor that’s hard to resist.

One tip I swear by is using a wooden spoon to stir the cheese mixture. It prevents the cheese from clumping and ensures a creamy consistency. Don’t forget to keep the heat low and stir constantly for the best results!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm, gooey cheese that's perfect for dipping
A hint of white pepper adds a unique twist
Great for gatherings, special occasions, or date nights

      

The Art of Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheese is paramount for a successful fondue. Gruyère and Emmental are traditional choices due to their excellent melting properties and distinctive flavors. Gruyère lends a nutty, complex taste while Emmental contributes a mild sweetness. For a twist, consider adding a bit of aged Cheddar or a splash of blue cheese for depth, although this can change the flavor profile significantly.

When grating cheese, use a box grater or food processor for uniform pieces that melt evenly. Aim for a texture resembling coarse breadcrumbs. This not only aids in melting quickly but also helps prevent clumping. Remember, using room temperature cheese can facilitate a smoother melt, so let it sit out for about 30 minutes before starting.

Mastering the Fondue Technique

The melting process is crucial for a creamy fondue. Begin by heating your white wine gently to around 180°F (82°C); this allows the cheese to melt smoothly without becoming stringy or gritty. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon to incorporate the cheese gradually, ensuring it doesn't stick to the bottom of the pot, which could lead to scorching. This step typically takes 5-7 minutes on low heat.

Once you add cornstarch, the mixture should start to thicken beautifully. If the fondue seems too thick, a splash of wine can be added to loosen it up. Conversely, if it’s too runny, let it simmer for a minute longer or add a touch more cornstarch, dissolved first in the wine to prevent lumps.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious fondue.

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
200ml dry white wine
1 clove garlic, cut in half
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon white pepper
Fresh bread, cut into cubes

Prepare your ingredients ahead for a smooth fonduing experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your fondue masterpiece.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the cut garlic clove. Discard the garlic once done.

Combine the Cheese and Wine

In the pot, combine the grated Gruyère and Emmental with wine. Heat gently over low flame, stirring until melted.

Thicken the Mixture

Dissolve cornstarch in a small amount of wine, then stir into the cheese mixture. Add white pepper and stir until creamy.

Serve with Bread

Transfer the pot to a table and serve immediately with bread cubes for dipping.

Enjoy your fondue while the cheese is still warm and gooey!

Pro Tips

For an extra dimension of flavor, consider adding a splash of kirsch (cherry brandy) to the cheese mixture. Always keep the fondue pot on a low flame to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your fondue with the right dippers can elevate the experience. While fresh bread cubes are classic, consider adding an assortment of vegetables like blanched broccoli, carrots, or even apples and pears for a sweet contrast. Skewers can enhance the fun—try threading a mix of breads and fruits for variety.

For a touch of luxury, drizzle a bit of truffle oil over the finished fondue before serving. This adds an aromatic quality that beautifully complements the melty cheese. Serving the fondue with a crisp side salad can also balance the richness and make for a more rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a small amount of wine to the pot to help regain the creamy texture. Heat slowly over low flame, stirring constantly to avoid separation or a gritty texture.

If you're planning ahead for a gathering, you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, gently reheat it while stirring, allowing more time for it to melt smoothly. However, avoid freezing fondue as the texture may deteriorate after thawing.

Questions About Recipes

→ What type of bread is best for fondue?

A crusty bread like baguette or sourdough complements the cheese nicely.

→ Can I use pre-grated cheese?

While pre-grated cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-clumping agents that can affect the melting process.

→ What can I dip other than bread?

Veggies, apples, or boiled potatoes also make great dippers.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

You can store leftover fondue in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of wine to restore the creamy texture.