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; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 clove garlic, halved; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Vegetables (like broccoli, carrots) for dipping

Highlighted under: Modern Kitchen

Whenever I think of comfort food, the image of a bubbling pot of fondue comes to mind. I love hosting intimate gatherings where we can dip fresh bread, crunchy vegetables, or succulent meats into this creamy, cheesy delight. The rich flavor of Fontina cheese combined with a splash of white wine creates a velvety sauce that is simply irresistible. It’s not only about the taste; the experience of sharing fondue brings everyone together, making it a perfect dish for both casual nights and special occasions.

Created by

Primrose Cavendish

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:10:46.619Z

Making fondue with Fontina cheese was an adventure that turned into one of my favorite culinary experiences. I experimented with different blends, but what truly stood out was the unique melt and flavor of Fontina. This cheese, with its nutty and creamy profile, becomes a dream when melted with white wine, allowing the cheese to remain silky and smooth throughout the meal.

One tip I learned during my culinary journey is to keep the heat level moderate. Too high, and you risk burning the cheese; too low, and it won’t melt evenly. Adding a cornstarch slurry to the mix helps in achieving the perfect texture, making it easy to just dip and savor without the mess!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture with a rich, nutty flavor
Perfect for sharing with friends and family
A fun and interactive dining experience

      

The Role of Cheese in Fondue

Fontina cheese is the star of this fondue. Its creamy texture and slightly nutty flavor create a luxurious base that melts beautifully, making it an ideal choice for fondue recipes. When choosing Fontina, look for aged varieties for a more pronounced flavor. Gruyère cheese, with its slightly sweet and earthy notes, complements the Fontina and adds depth to the overall taste. Together, these cheeses create a harmonious blend that is both indulgent and satisfying.

It's essential to grate your cheese before adding it to the pot. This increases the surface area, allowing it to melt evenly without clumping. If you encounter clumped cheese, try reducing the heat slightly and stir continuously. The residual heat should help smooth it out. Remember that using a mix of cheeses not only distributes flavor but also improves texture—ensuring your fondue is rich and silky while avoiding the dreaded stringiness.

Perfecting the Fondue Technique

The key to a successful cheese fondue is gentle heating. Bring your wine and lemon juice mixture to a gentle simmer—not a rolling boil. This is important because boiling can cause the cheese proteins to seize up and become grainy rather than creamy. Keep a close watch as you add the cheese in small batches, stirring continuously until it's fully melted before adding more. This technique prevents temperature shock and ensures a smooth, glossy fondue that is perfect for dipping.

Thickening the fondue with cornstarch is a clever way to achieve the right consistency. By mixing cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, you can prevent clumping and achieve a silky finish. If your fondue is too thin, allow it to simmer gently for a few more minutes after adding the cornstarch. Conversely, if it gets too thick, adding a splash of extra wine can help loosen the mixture while enhancing the flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delightful cheese fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Fontina cheese, grated
100g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 clove garlic, halved
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Vegetables (like broccoli, carrots) for dipping

These ingredients will combine to create a velvety dip that's perfect for any gathering!

Instructions

Here's how to prepare the perfect fondue:

Prepare the pot

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

Heat the wine

Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the pot, and heat gently over medium-low heat until hot but not boiling.

Add the cheese

Gradually add the grated Fontina and Gruyère cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Thicken the fondue

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a little water to form a slurry, then add to the fondue, stirring until thickened.

Serve

Keep the fondue warm over a low flame and serve with bread cubes and vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your fondue with friends, creating delicious bites together!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of your favorite liqueur or seasoning with nutmeg before serving!

Dipping Options and Pairings

While crusty bread is a classic addition for fondue, you might consider offering a variety of dippables to elevate the experience. Fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers not only add color but also a refreshing crunch. You can also include roasted potatoes or cooked chicken pieces for heartier options. For a touch of luxury, consider adding sliced cured meats like prosciutto or salami, which can pair nicely with the richness of the cheese.

When serving fondue, keep the pot over a low flame to maintain warmth without cooking the cheese further. A candle-lit fondue burner can create a lovely ambiance while providing an even heat source. Ensure your dipping utensils, whether forks or skewers, are long enough to avoid any splashing. This way, everyone can enjoy dipping without the mess, making the dining experience both fun and intimate.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While cheese fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare a few components in advance. Grate your cheeses and mix them with cornstarch a day or two before your gathering; this helps them stay fresher and can save time when you're ready to cook. Combine your wine and lemon juice mixture and store it in the fridge until you're ready to heat it up. Just remember to bring everything back to room temperature before cooking to ensure a smooth melt.

If you have leftovers, store the fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat while stirring constantly. If it thickens too much, add a splash of wine or a little milk to loosen it up. Avoid reheating in the microwave as this can cause uneven melting and affect the texture. Enjoy the fondue the next day by pairing it with fresh dippers for a quick and comforting meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can mix in cheeses like Emmental or cheddar, but the texture and flavor will differ.

→ What if my fondue gets too thick?

Add a little extra wine or stock until you reach the desired consistency.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently to serve.

→ What can I dip into the fondue?

Popular dippers include crusty bread, blanched vegetables, cooked meats, or even fruit!