Fondue with Smoked Cheese

Name: Fondue with Smoked Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g smoked cheddar cheese, grated; 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 garlic clove, halved; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Freshly baked crusty bread, for serving; Assorted vegetables and fruits (e.g., cherry tomatoes, apples, bell peppers)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love hosting gatherings, and one of my favorite dishes to serve is fondue with smoked cheese. The unique flavor profile of the smoked cheese combined with the creamy, gooey texture makes it irresistible. It's such a fun experience for everyone to dip their favorites into the delicious mix. I find that pairing it with crusty bread, crisp vegetables, or even juicy fruits elevates the whole experience. You can’t help but feel the warmth and joy that comes with sharing this dish.

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:28:18.857Z

When I first tried fondue with smoked cheese, I was captivated by how the rich, smoky flavors transformed the dish. I experimented with various combinations of cheeses, but settled on a mix that created perfect depth and creaminess. A key tip is to ensure the cheese is shredded finely, as this allows it to melt perfectly and creates a smoother texture.

During one gathering, I paired the fondue with sliced apples and a selection of artisan breads, which added a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese. It was a hit and showed me that creativity in pairing can make a simple dish extraordinary!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        The rich, smoky flavor that excites the palate
Perfectly melted cheese creates a luxurious dip
A delightful communal experience for friends and family

      

Creating the Perfect Cheese Blend

Choosing the right cheeses is crucial for a delicious fondue. Smoked cheddar offers a rich, smoky profile that pairs beautifully with the nutty and creamy Gruyère. This blend not only provides depth of flavor but also ensures that the fondue melts smoothly. For an extra kick, consider using a touch of Swiss cheese or a melty Monterey Jack in place of Gruyère. Always grate your cheese rather than using pre-packaged shredded cheese, as the anti-caking agents in pre-shredded varieties can affect the melting process.

Coating the cheese with cornstarch is another key step that significantly improves the texture of the fondue. This process helps prevent the cheese from clumping together, allowing for a silky-smooth melt. If you're avoiding cornstarch due to dietary preferences, you can substitute it with arrowroot powder, which serves a similar purpose without compromising the fondue’s consistency.

Mastering the Fondue Process

When preparing your fondue pot, it's essential to get the heat just right. Start by heating the white wine over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling—aim for a temperature around 120°F (49°C). Boiling wine can alter the texture of the cheese and lead to separation. Incorporating the cheese mixture gradually, while stirring continuously, helps to create a homogeneous mixture. You'll know it’s ready when the fondue becomes glossy and coats the back of a spoon.

Once your fondue is melted and well-combined, keep it warm over low heat. If necessary, add a splash more wine to maintain the desired consistency; the fondue should remain pourable but thick enough to cling to your dippers. It's also important to occasionally stir the mixture to prevent any cheese from settling or sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your smoked cheese fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g smoked cheddar cheese, grated
200g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 garlic clove, halved
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Freshly baked crusty bread, for serving
Assorted vegetables and fruits (e.g., cherry tomatoes, apples, bell peppers)

Ensure all ingredients are prepared for a seamless cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious smoked cheese fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, mix the grated smoked cheddar and Gruyère cheese with cornstarch to coat, which helps prevent clumping during melting.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove to infuse flavor. Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the pot and heat over medium until warm.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the warm wine, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Adjust with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Keep the fondue warm and serve with your selection of breads, vegetables, and fruits for dipping.

Enjoy your flavorful fondue with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of your favorite brandy or flavored liquor to the cheese mix for added richness.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

For the ultimate fondue experience, focus on your dipping options. Freshly baked crusty bread is classic, but try incorporating a variety of textures and flavors with items like firm vegetables such as blanched broccoli, asparagus spears, or colorful bell pepper strips. Fruits like tart green apples or succulent pears can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese, making the meal even more enjoyable for your guests.

Consider setting up a fondue board to elevate your presentation. Arrange your dippers in an inviting manner and include some interesting condiments or toppings, such as crunchy nuts, olives, or even pickled vegetables. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows for a more dynamic tasting experience, where guests can mix and match flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning a gathering, consider preparing the cheese mixture a day in advance. Simply grate the cheeses and toss them with cornstarch, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. On the day of your gathering, all you need to do is infuse the pot with garlic, warm the wine, and add the cheese—making the preparation process quick and stress-free.

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftover fondue in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, use a double boiler or a slow cooker on low heat. Stir in a splash of additional white wine to help bring back the silky consistency, as refrigeration can cause it to thicken. Remember to stir frequently while reheating to avoid any clumping or burning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Experiment with different cheeses like fontina or gouda for varying flavors and textures.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Crusty bread, fresh vegetables, fruits like apple slices, or even pretzels work wonderfully!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, use vegetable broth instead of wine for a delicious vegetarian option.