Cheese Fondue for Two

Name: Cheese Fondue for Two
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; A pinch of nutmeg (optional); Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Blanched vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers); Cooked meats (chorizo, chicken strips); Apple slices or pear slices for sweetness

Highlighted under: Simple Food

I absolutely love cozy evenings, and there's nothing better than a pot of bubbling cheese fondue to share with someone special. The rich, creamy texture paired with the gooey melted cheese creates a comforting experience that warms both the heart and the palate. We often enjoy this delightful dish during date nights or intimate gatherings at home. The best part? It’s easy to customize with your favorite dippers, making each serving unique and delicious. Join me in creating this delightful treat!

Created by

Ivy Sanderson

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:09:34.665Z

Every time I make cheese fondue, I am reminded of the magical evenings spent around the table, sharing stories and laughter. The blend of Gruyère and Emmental creates a fantastic depth of flavor that you can’t resist. My secret tip is to toss the cheese with a bit of cornstarch before melting, which helps achieve that silky-smooth consistency.

No fondue is complete without a variety of dippers. I love using crusty bread, blanched vegetables, and even some succulent meats! Experimenting with different pairings is half the fun, and it turns the experience into a wonderful feast for the senses!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, rich cheese blend that tantalizes your taste buds
Ideal for two, creating an intimate dining experience
Versatile dippers allow for endless customization

      

Choosing the Right Cheese

The choice of cheese is crucial for the perfect fondue. Gruyère and Emmental are traditional options due to their meltability and robust flavors, but you can experiment with others like aged cheddar or Fontina for a different taste profile. Just be mindful of the moisture content; cheeses that are too dry will not melt well and may result in a grainy texture.

To ensure a smooth melt, grate your cheeses just before using them. Grating increases the surface area, allowing the cheese to melt evenly and quickly. If you're in a pinch, pre-packaged grated cheese can work, but check for anti-caking agents as they can interfere with achieving that creamy consistency!

Essential Fondue Techniques

When melting your cheese, maintain a slow and gentle heat. A medium-low setting is often ideal, as high heat can lead to separation and a greasy texture. Stir continuously with a wooden or silicone spatula, which is both heat-resistant and effective at blending without scratching your pot. You'll know it's ready when the mixture is glossy and pulls together easily.

If you notice your fondue becoming too thick, add a splash more wine to loosen it up. Conversely, if it’s too runny, a little more cornstarch mixed in can help thicken it. Just remember, achieving the ideal consistency is key to a delightful dipping experience!

Ingredients

For the Cheese Fondue

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

For Dippers

Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Blanched vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
Cooked meats (chorizo, chicken strips)
Apple slices or pear slices for sweetness

Instructions

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove. This will infuse a subtle flavor into the cheese as it melts.

Combine Wine and Cheese

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the white wine and lemon juice. Gradually add the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheese, stirring continuously until melted.

Finish the Fondue

Mix the cornstarch with a bit of the cheese mixture, then stir back into the pot. Season with pepper and nutmeg to taste. Keep warm over low heat.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the fondue pot to the table. Serve with your choice of dippers and enjoy the experience of dipping and sharing!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, try using a combination of smoked cheese or adding some herbs to the mix. Always keep the fondue warm but not boiling to ensure a pleasant texture.

Perfecting Your Dippers

While classic dippers include crusty bread, don't hesitate to mix it up! Fresh bread works best, ideally a day or two old. This helps it hold together better during dipping. For a crispy element, consider toasting the bread lightly in the oven until golden before enjoying it with the fondue.

Fruits like apples or pears provide a harmonious contrast to the rich cheese, enhancing your experience. For an added twist, try roasting your vegetables briefly in olive oil before dipping for additional flavor. Make sure everything is bite-sized to ensure easy dipping!

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Fondue is traditionally served in a communal pot, but presentation matters too! Consider using a beautiful ceramic or cast iron pot, and pair it with sturdy skewers or fondue forks, which can make the experience more fun and memorable.

To elevate your fondue night, serve it with delightful accompaniments like pickles, olives, or even a charcuterie board. Lightly sparkling wines or crisp apple cider complement the richness of cheese fondue beautifully and keep your meal feeling balanced.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with cheeses like Fontina, Cheddar, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor.

→ What if I don’t have a fondue pot?

You can use a heavy-bottomed saucepan and keep it warm on the stove. Just be sure to serve it quickly!

→ Is there a non-alcoholic version?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of white wine. It will change the flavor, but can still be delicious!

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

You can store leftover fondue in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.