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Foolproof Classic Swiss Cheese Fondue: Velvety Gruyère and Emmental Melt

A piece of crusty bread is lifted from a bowl of velvety cheese fondue, showing a long, satisfying cheese pull.

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Make this classic Swiss cheese fondue at home for a cozy gathering. This recipe uses Gruyère and Emmental to create a smooth, velvety melted cheese dip perfect for bread and vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound Gruyère cheese, grated
  • 1 pound Emmental cheese, grated
  • 1 1/2 cups dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 clove garlic, halved
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Kirsch (optional, for authenticity)

Instructions

  1. Rub the inside of your fondue pot or heavy-bottomed saucepan with the cut side of the garlic clove. Discard the garlic.
  2. In a small bowl, toss the grated cheeses with the cornstarch until evenly coated. This step helps prevent clumping.
  3. Pour the white wine into the pot and heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not boil.
  4. Reduce the heat to low. Add the cheese mixture one handful at a time, stirring constantly in a figure-eight motion until each addition is fully melted and smooth before adding the next.
  5. Once all the cheese is melted, stir in the lemon juice, nutmeg, and pepper. If using, stir in the Kirsch.
  6. Keep the fondue warm over very low heat, stirring occasionally. If the fondue becomes too thick, add a splash more wine or lemon juice.
  7. Serve immediately with dippers.

Notes

  • For the best cheese pull and flavor, grate the cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded varieties, which contain anti-caking agents.
  • If you do not have a fondue pot, keep the mixture warm on the lowest setting on your stovetop, stirring often.
  • To prevent the cheese from breaking or becoming grainy, maintain low, consistent heat and stir continuously when adding the cheese.
  • Serve with crusty French bread cubes, boiled small potatoes, blanched broccoli florets, or apple slices.

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