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 Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g smoked Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 garlic clove, halved; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Fresh bread, cut into cubes for dipping; Assorted vegetables for dipping (like bell peppers, carrots, and cherry tomatoes)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making fondue with smoked cheese, as it creates a delightful flavor experience that’s hard to resist. The rich, creamy cheese combined with the smokiness brings a unique twist to a classic dish. Serving it with a variety of dippers like crusty bread and fresh vegetables adds to the fun and creativity. Each bite is comforting and indulgent, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening at home. Join me in exploring this delicious recipe that never fails to impress!

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:22:06.509Z

When I first tried smoked cheese fondue, I was instantly hooked. The way the smoky flavor intricately intertwines with the creamy texture is simply divine. I found that using a blend of cheeses really elevates the dish, giving it additional depth and flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.

One tip that worked wonders for me was incorporating a splash of white wine into the mix. It not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve that silky smooth consistency we all adore. Trust me, this fondue will be a star at any gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Rich, smoky flavor that tantalizes your taste buds
Creamy and velvety texture that invites endless dipping
Perfect for social gatherings or a cozy night in with loved ones

      

The Role of Smoky Cheese

Smoked cheeses like Gruyère and Emmental add depth and a unique flavor profile that sets this fondue apart from traditional recipes. The smoky notes create an enticing contrast to the creamy texture of melted cheese, enhancing the overall taste experience. It's vital to use high-quality smoked cheese, as the flavor intensity can significantly affect your fondue. Look for artisanal options or well-curated brands to elevate this dish.

The combination of these cheeses also provides an ideal melting ability. Gruyère melts beautifully and becomes incredibly creamy, while Emmental adds a gentle nuttiness. Together, they create a luscious blend that clings well to dippers. If you're in a pinch and need an alternative, you can substitute with regular Gruyère and Emmental, but try adding a few drops of liquid smoke for that signature flavor.

Perfecting Your Fondue Technique

When melting the cheese, maintaining a steady heat is crucial. Start by heating the wine until it's warm but not boiling, which helps in dissolving the cheeses slowly. If the heat is too high, you risk seizing the cheese or creating a gritty texture. Stir continuously in a figure-eight motion to blend the cheese evenly, which will help maintain a smooth consistency and prevent it from burning at the bottom.

If your fondue ends up too thick, don't worry. You can rescue it by gradually adding more warm wine or a splash of broth to achieve your desired texture. Conversely, if it becomes too runny, a small amount of cornstarch mixed with a bit of cold wine can thicken it back up. Always remember to keep the fondue pot over low heat to maintain warmth without cooking the mixture further.

Dippers: Ideas and Pairings

While crusty bread is a classic choice for dipping, consider offering an array of options for variety. Fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli, asparagus, or even potatoes can provide a wonderful crunch that complements the fondue's creaminess. Try marinated artichokes or even apple slices for a sweet contrast; the possibilities are endless! Keep in mind that dippers should be cut into bite-sized pieces for easy dipping.

Presentation matters, too. Arrange your dippers in colorful patterns on a large platter to create an enticing spread for your guests. You can also prepare several dipping sauces on the side, such as a tangy mustard or a spicy aioli, to enhance the experience. Just make sure to serve everything with long forks or skewers for safety and style!

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

200g smoked Gruyère cheese, grated
200g smoked Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 garlic clove, halved
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh bread, cut into cubes for dipping
Assorted vegetables for dipping (like bell peppers, carrots, and cherry tomatoes)

Instructions

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove to infuse it with flavor.

Mix the Cheeses

In a medium bowl, toss the grated cheeses with cornstarch to prevent clumping.

Heat the Wine

Pour the wine into the pot and heat over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling.

Add the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the pot, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Season and Serve

Add freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately with bread cubes and vegetables for dipping.

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, experiment by adding a bit of smoked paprika for an extra kick. Pair the fondue with crisp apple slices for a delightful contrast to the richness of the cheese!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, proper storage is essential. Allow the fondue to cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat the fondue in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth texture. If it looks too thick, add a little white wine or broth, just like you would when first preparing it.

Do not freeze fondue, as the texture will become grainy upon defrosting. However, you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and keep it in the fridge for a day or two. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before melting it into the wine on the stovetop.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're hosting a larger gathering, scaling this fondue recipe is straightforward. For every additional two servings, simply increase the amount of cheese and wine proportionately. A 1:1 ratio of cheese to wine generally works well, but be mindful of the fondue pot's capacity. You don’t want to overfill it, as this could lead to spills when dipping!

Ensure that any additional cornstarch is proportioned to match the increase in cheese to maintain a creamy consistency. For instance, if you double the cheese, double the cornstarch as well. This simple adjustment will help keep the fondue from becoming too thick or clumpy as you mix in additional cheese.

Experimenting with Variations

Feel free to get creative with your fondue by incorporating spices, herbs, or even different cheeses. A touch of nutmeg or cayenne can add a lovely warmth, while fresh herbs like chives or parsley can brighten up the flavor. You can also explore using a mixture of smoked and regular cheeses, adjusting the quantities to your taste preferences.

Another fun variation is to use hearty additives. Chopped caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms mixed into the cheese can create a delightful surprise. Just be sure to adjust the amount of cheese and wine accordingly to balance the added ingredients so that your fondue maintains the perfect texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ What type of cheese works best for fondue?

A combination of smoked Gruyère and smoked Emmental is perfect for a rich flavor.

→ Can I use non-alcoholic wine?

Yes, you can use a non-alcoholic wine or even vegetable broth as a substitute.

→ How do I keep fondue warm for a long time?

Use a fondue pot with a candle or burner to keep it warm while serving.

→ What are good dippers for fondue?

Bread cubes, vegetables, and even fruits like apples are excellent dippers!