Fondue with Smoked Cheese

Name: Fondue with Smoked Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g smoked cheese, grated; 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 clove garlic, halved; 300ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Fresh bread, cut into cubes; Veggies for dipping (carrots, broccoli, etc.)

Highlighted under: Fusion Recipes

I absolutely love making this fondue with smoked cheese. It’s a delightful blend of flavors that creates a rich, smoky taste that transports me to a cozy Alpine cabin. The creamy texture makes it perfect for dipping fresh crusty bread or vibrant veggies. With just a few ingredients, I can whip this up in about 30 minutes, and it serves as a fantastic centerpiece for gatherings. I must say, there's something uniquely comforting about gathering around a pot of warm cheese, especially on chilly nights!

Created by

Wendy Ashbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:41:34.716Z

When I first tried making fondue with smoked cheese, I was amazed at how simple yet indulgent it was. I’ve played around with various cheese blends, but the addition of smoked cheese truly elevates the dish. The key is to use a good quality Gruyère or Emmental mixed with a hint of smoked cheese to achieve that perfect balance of flavors.

I love serving this fondue with an array of dippables—from crunchy bread to lightly blanched vegetables. It’s become my go-to dish for any gathering! Everyone loves gathering around the pot, and I find that it fosters great conversations and laughter while enjoying delicious food together.

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Rich, smoky flavor that's incredibly unique
Creamy and delightful texture for ultimate dipping
Great for gatherings, perfect for sharing with friends

      

Perfecting the Fondue Experience

For the ultimate fondue enjoyment, ensure that your fondue pot is of good quality and heat-retaining. A ceramic or cast-iron pot can maintain even heat, which is crucial for melting cheese to a smooth, creamy consistency. Starting on medium heat is essential, as you want the white wine to warm gradually without boiling. Boiling can alter the texture, potentially causing the cheese to become grainy or oily. Keep an eye on it, and adjust the heat as necessary.

Cheese selection plays a pivotal role in the flavor profile. While smoked cheese adds a rich, bold flavor, Gruyère is known for its nutty undertones and helps create a creamy texture. Mixing different varieties of cheese, like Emmental or aged cheddar, can add complexity; just ensure that whatever you choose melts well. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of beer or a hint of mustard for an extra layer of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the smokiness.

Dipping Delights

Fresh, crusty bread is the classic choice, and for good reason! Sourdough is particularly excellent due to its tangy flavor, which complements the rich cheese beautifully. Cut the bread into bite-sized cubes, allowing for maximum cheese coverage. For a fun twist, consider adding pretzels or crackers for crunch, which can offer a delightful contrast to the gooey fondue.

Vegetables are an excellent vehicle for fondue, especially when they add color and texture. Consider blanching your veggies, such as broccoli or cauliflower, just slightly before serving to enhance their tenderness while maintaining a vibrant color. You can also use grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, which add a smoky flavor that pairs well with the fondue, elevating your dipping experience.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the perfect smoked cheese fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g smoked cheese, grated
200g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
300ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh bread, cut into cubes
Veggies for dipping (carrots, broccoli, etc.)

Make sure all ingredients are prepped before you start cooking for a smooth fondue experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a perfectly smooth fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove. This will infuse the fondue with a subtle garlic flavor.

Mix the Cheese

In a bowl, toss the grated smoked cheese and Gruyère cheese with cornstarch. This will help prevent clumping when melted.

Heat the Wine

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

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the pot, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Add lemon juice to enhance the flavor.

Serve

Keep the fondue warm while serving. Use forks to dip bread and veggies into the melted cheese.

Don't forget to enjoy and share! Fondue is all about togetherness and fun.

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding a splash of brandy or a dash of nutmeg to enhance the flavor of the fondue.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When it’s time to reheat, do so gently. Place it back into your fondue pot or a saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously to restore its creamy texture; add a splash of white wine or milk if it seems too thick. Be patient—overheating can lead to a rubbery texture, which is not pleasant.

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time. Just combine the cheeses and cornstarch, then refrigerate until you are ready to melt it. This way, you simplify the cooking process, allowing you to focus on the fun of dipping and enjoying the meal with friends and family.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with fondue is the texture turning grainy or clumpy. This often happens if the cheese isn’t properly prepped with cornstarch or if the heat is too high during the melting process. To avoid this, keep the heat medium-low and stir continuously until the mixture becomes a glossy, unified mass. If clumping occurs, try adding a little more wine while stirring to smooth it out.

If your fondue seems too thick, it can be tempting to just keep melting it down. Instead, add a few tablespoons of white wine or a splash of broth to achieve the desired consistency. Similarly, if you find the flavor isn’t bold enough, a dash of freshly cracked black pepper or a hint of nutmeg can enhance the overall flavor profile beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ What type of cheese works best for fondue?

A blend of Gruyère and Emmental works best, but adding a smoky cheese gives it a unique twist.

→ Can I make fondue without alcohol?

Yes! You can substitute the white wine with vegetable or chicken broth, though the flavor will differ slightly.

→ What can I use for dipping?

Fresh bread, vegetables like broccoli or carrots, and even sliced apples or pears go very well with cheese fondue.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before serving again.