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 Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g smoked cheddar, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 clove garlic, halved; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Bread cubes, for dipping; Vegetable sticks, for dipping

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I love preparing fondue with smoked cheese, especially on cozy nights with friends. The rich, smoky flavor melds beautifully with the creamy texture, creating a warm, inviting dish that everyone enjoys. I always make sure to use high-quality cheeses for the best results. It’s a great way to impress guests while keeping it simple! Plus, it’s an interactive meal that brings everyone together, dipping their favorites into the gooey goodness.

Created by

India Rutherford

Last updated on 2026-01-12T05:13:34.225Z

When I first tried making smoked cheese fondue, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. Using a combination of Gruyère and smoked cheddar creates a delightful flavor profile that's hard to resist. I experimented with different types of dippers, and my favorites are crusty bread and crunchy vegetables. The texture is incredibly smooth when melted properly, which is why I focus on stirring continuously while heating.

I discovered that the key to a successful fondue lies in the balance of fat and flavor in the cheeses. Adding a splash of dry white wine not only enhances the taste but also helps achieve that perfect consistency. The smoky aroma fills the room, making it feel festive and special beyond just a meal.

        Why You Will Love This Fondue
        Rich and smoky flavor that tantalizes the taste buds
Creamy, melty texture that keeps everyone coming back for more
Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in

      

The Importance of Cheese Selection

When preparing this fondue, choosing the right cheese is crucial for achieving that coveted smoky depth and luxurious creaminess. Gruyère cheese brings a nutty and slightly sweet flavor, while smoked cheddar adds a rich and intense smokiness. These two cheeses complement each other beautifully, and using high-quality, aged varieties will enhance the overall taste. Aim for cheeses that are well-aged to ensure a bold and satisfying flavor profile.

Another key factor in cheese selection is the moisture content. Higher moisture cheeses can lead to a watery fondue, which is why aged cheeses with lower moisture content are best. Look for cheeses that have a good balance of fat and protein, as these will melt smoothly without separating. If you're feeling adventurous, you can try adding a bit of fontina or gouda to further enhance the flavor complexity.

Techniques for Perfect Melting

To achieve that perfectly smooth and creamy texture, it’s essential to incorporate the cheese gradually into the hot wine. Start by adding a small handful at a time while stirring continuously. This process allows the cheese to emulsify with the wine, preventing clumping and ensuring a glossy finish. The key here is to maintain a medium flame to avoid scorching the cheese or wine, which can alter the final flavor and texture.

If your fondue seems too thick as you add cheese, you can adjust the consistency by adding a splash more wine. Alternatively, if it’s too thin, additional cheese can help, but do it slowly. Stirring in a figure-eight motion will help to keep the mixture unified and creamy. If you notice any separation, don’t panic! A little more heat and continuous stirring can sometimes bring it back together.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious smoked cheese fondue:

Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g smoked cheddar, grated
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 clove garlic, halved
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Bread cubes, for dipping
Vegetable sticks, for dipping

Once you have your ingredients, you're ready to create a delightful fondue experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious smoked cheese fondue:

Prepare the Pot

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a bowl, toss the grated cheeses with cornstarch. This helps prevent the cheese from clumping.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the pot and heat it over medium flame until hot but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

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

Serve and Enjoy

Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve with bread cubes and vegetable sticks for dipping!

Enjoy your fondue experience with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding a dash of paprika or nutmeg to the cheese mixture for additional flavor. Make sure to keep the fondue pot warm to maintain the melty texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your fondue with a variety of dippers can elevate the experience. While bread cubes are a classic choice, consider offering a selection of crusty baguette, pretzel bites, and even pita chips to provide texture contrast. For those looking to eat healthier, an assortment of fresh vegetable sticks, such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers, complements the rich fondue beautifully and adds a nutritious touch.

You can also introduce cooked items, such as small boiled potatoes, or lightly sautéed mushrooms and broccoli. These add warmth and hearty flavors that pair well with the smoky cheese. For a gourmet twist, consider drizzling truffle oil over your dippers for an added layer of sophistication.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh and hot, but if you want to prep in advance, you can grate your cheeses and toss them with cornstarch a few hours before cooking. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. It’s also a good idea to prepare any dippers, cutting vegetables and bread cubes ahead of time for a stress-free serving.

In terms of leftovers, if you happen to have any fondue remaining, allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheating can be tricky, as the cheese may seize up; gently warm it on low heat, adding a splash of wine or cream to help restore its creamy consistency. Stir continuously until it becomes smooth again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like fontina or gouda for different flavors.

→ What can I use for dipping?

Bread, vegetables, fruits, and even meats work well as dippers for fondue.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead and heat it just before serving.

→ Is it okay to add more wine?

Yes, adjust to taste! Just be sure not to add too much at once to prevent the cheese from separating.