Fondue with White Cheddar and Garlic

Name: Fondue with White Cheddar and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 cloves roasted garlic, mashed; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; Crostini, fresh vegetables, and apples for dipping

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love indulging in a warm bowl of fondue, especially when it's packed with the rich flavors of white cheddar and a hint of garlic. Every time I prepare this dish, it becomes the centerpiece of the gathering, drawing everyone in with its irresistible aroma. We dip everything from fresh bread to crisp vegetables, and the experience is always a hit. Trust me, once you try this creamy delight, it will become your go-to for cozy nights or entertaining guests.

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:15:35.204Z

When I first decided to make fondue at home, I was a bit intimidated by the process. However, after a few trial runs, I realized that using high-quality white cheddar was the key to achieving a smooth, creamy texture. The addition of roasted garlic amplifies the flavor without overpowering the cheese, creating a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated.

One of my favorite moments was when I paired the fondue with a selection of seasonal veggies and artisan breads. The combination of flavors and textures made for an unforgettable evening. Remember to keep the heat low to prevent the cheese from separating, and enjoy experimenting with different dipping options!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Creamy white cheddar that melts perfectly every time
Subtle garlic flavor that elevates the dish
Perfect for sharing during cozy gatherings

      

The Cheese Choice

Selecting the right cheeses is crucial for achieving that wonderfully smooth fondue. The combination of white cheddar and Gruyère not only creates a rich, creamy texture but also offers depth of flavor. Gruyère, with its nutty profile, complements the sharpness of white cheddar beautifully, creating a balanced taste that ensures everyone will enjoy every bite. If you can’t find Gruyère, a good substitute would be Emmental or even a mild smoked cheese to add an interesting twist.

When it comes to shredding your cheese, use a box grater or a food processor for a coarser texture. This will help the cheese melt evenly and avoid clumping. I usually shred my cheese fresh, as pre-packaged shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the fondue.

Perfecting the Fondue Technique

It's important to heat the wine gently, as a rapid boil can lead to a tough texture in your melted cheese. Heat the wine on medium until it’s steaming, then gradually add the cheese mixture. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or a silicone spatula; this helps prevent scorching. The fondue should become glossy and thick but still pourable, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If it looks grainy, don’t worry! Just keep stirring and adjusting the heat down to low until it smooths out.

Incorporating the garlic and lemon juice at the right time enhances the overall flavor. Mashed roasted garlic blends seamlessly into the cheese, offering a subtle backdrop that doesn’t overpower. A splash of lemon juice brightens the dish, cutting through the richness of the cheese. If you want a stronger garlic flavor, consider adding an additional clove or two, but remember to roast them beforehand for that creamy texture!

Dippers and Pairings

For the ultimate fondue experience, think creatively about your dippers. Crusty baguette slices or crostini can be toasted for added crunch, making them perfect for soaking up the melty cheese. Fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fondue. If you're feeling adventurous, apple slices offer a delightful sweetness that complements the sharpness of the cheese. You can also drizzle a little honey over the apples for an elevated touch.

If you have leftovers, store the fondue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on low in a saucepan, adding a splash of wine to bring back the creamy texture. Just be sure to stir continuously as it warms up. You can even scale up the recipe for larger gatherings without altering the ratios—just ensure you have a pot large enough to accommodate the increased volume.

Ingredients

Gather these delightful ingredients to create a rich fondue experience:

Ingredients for Fondue

2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1 cup dry white wine
2 cloves roasted garlic, mashed
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Crostini, fresh vegetables, and apples for dipping

Make sure to prepare your dippers while the fondue is heating up!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect white cheddar fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

In a large bowl, combine the shredded white cheddar and Gruyère cheese with the cornstarch. This helps keep the cheese smooth and prevents clumping.

Heat the Wine

In a fondue pot, heat the dry white wine over medium heat. Once it’s warm, slowly add the cheese mixture, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Add Flavorings

Stir in the mashed roasted garlic, lemon juice, and freshly cracked black pepper. Keep stirring until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the fondue is silky and smooth, transfer to a serving station and enjoy with your choice of dippers!

Serve immediately for the best experience, and remember to keep the fondue warm throughout your gathering!

Pro Tips

To keep the fondue creamy and prevent it from separating, avoid bringing it to a boil. Stir in a bit more wine if it becomes too thick.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prep the cheese mixture a day in advance by combining the white cheddar and Gruyère with cornstarch and storing it in the fridge. This will save you time on the day of your gathering while ensuring the cheese stays fresh. Just remember to mix the cheese again before adding it to the heated wine; this helps to redistribute the cornstarch evenly.

If you choose to roast the garlic ahead of time, you can store the cloves in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last about a week and can be used in other dishes, so you won’t waste any ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

In addition to traditional dippers like bread or veggies, consider incorporating a few charcuterie items. Slices of cured meats, such as prosciutto or salami, add a delicious savory element. Offering a selection of pickles or olives on the side can also enhance the tasting experience with contrasting flavors and textures, making each dip feel unique.

For an added festive touch, serve with a variety of sauces or dips alongside the cheese, such as a tangy mustard or a sweet chili sauce. These can provide a fun twist and let guests mix and match flavors while dipping—keep things interesting and encourage conversations about their favorites!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! You can experiment with cheeses like fontina or gouda for a twist on the flavor.

→ What can I use for dipping?

Fresh vegetables, bread, fruit, or even cooked meats are great for dipping!

→ How can I store leftovers?

Any leftover fondue can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Is fondue a healthy option?

While it’s a delightful indulgence, fondue can be high in calories and fat, so enjoy it in moderation!