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: 8 oz Fontina cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1 tsp cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Assorted dippers: crusty bread, raw vegetables, sliced meats

Highlighted under: Authentic World Food Ideas

I absolutely love making fondue with Fontina cheese for a cozy night in. The creamy, rich texture of the cheese combined with a touch of white wine creates an irresistible dip that invites everyone to gather. We often serve it with fresh bread, crunchy vegetables, and assorted meats. The best part is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that feels elegant and indulgent, perfect for entertaining or a special treat at home.

Created by

Megan Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:22:35.607Z

When I first tried making fondue, I was blown away by how simple it is to achieve such a luxurious dish at home. The key is to use high-quality Fontina cheese, which melts beautifully and provides a delightful nutty flavor. Pairing it with a good white wine enhances its taste without overwhelming it.

One memorable evening, I experimented by adding a hint of garlic and nutmeg to the pot, which elevated the flavor profile remarkably. I learned that stirring consistently while melting helps prevent the cheese from clumping, ensuring a smooth, dippable texture that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Creamy, rich texture that makes it irresistible
Versatile for different dippers like bread, veggies, and meat
Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or cozy nights in

      

The Importance of Cheese Selection

Choosing the right Fontina cheese is crucial for achieving that creamy, smooth texture in your fondue. Look for a high-quality, well-aged Fontina that melts beautifully. Freshly grated cheese will also incorporate better into the liquid, providing a silky finish. Avoid pre-grated varieties as they often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the melting process and lead to a gritty consistency.

If you can't find Fontina, consider substitutes like Gruyère or Emmental for a similar melting quality. However, be cautious with stronger cheeses; they can easily overpower the delicate flavors of your fondue. Always taste a bit of the cheese before using it to ensure it suits your palette and the overall flavor profile you’re aiming for.

Mastering the Melting Process

When heating the wine, aim for a gentle simmer rather than a full boil. Boiling can cause the wine to evaporate too quickly and alter the taste of your fondue. Keep an eye on it until you see small bubbles forming around the edges. This is also when I like to add the lemon juice, as it enhances the flavors and adds a slight acidity that balances the richness of the cheese.

As you add the grated Fontina, do so gradually, stirring continuously to ensure even melting. If the fondue becomes too thick, whisk in a bit more white wine to achieve your desired consistency. If you notice the cheese separating or becoming grainy, it may be due to overheating. Lower the heat and keep stirring consistently until it comes back together.

Ingredients for Fondue with Fontina Cheese

Ingredients

8 oz Fontina cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Assorted dippers: crusty bread, raw vegetables, sliced meats

Feel free to mix and match your favorite dippers to make this fondue your own!

Instructions

Prepare the pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove. Discard the garlic afterward.

Mix cheese and cornstarch

In a bowl, toss the grated Fontina cheese with cornstarch to prevent clumping.

Heat wine

Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the fondue pot and heat over medium until it’s steaming but not boiling.

Add cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the pot, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon until completely melted and smooth.

Season and serve

Season with freshly ground black pepper and serve immediately with your choice of dippers.

Make sure to keep the fondue warm while serving to maintain the creamy consistency.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of cherry brandy for a unique twist on traditional cheese fondue.

Dipping Delights

When it comes to dippers, the options are endless. While crusty bread is a classic choice, I love adding a variety of raw vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and cherry tomatoes for a fresh contrast. For a touch of heartiness, thinly sliced meats, such as prosciutto or salami, can elevate your fondue experience. Just remember to ensure your dippers are cut into manageable sizes for easy dipping.

To keep things exciting, consider seasoning your dippers before serving. A light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of herbs can add a layer of flavor that complements the richness of the cheese. Also, have some extra bread or crackers on hand, as you might find guests continually returning for more delicious dips!

Storing and Reheating Fondue

If you have leftover fondue, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop or in a fondue pot to prevent the cheese from becoming too stringy or separating. Stir in a splash of white wine or lemon juice to help restore its smooth texture.

To prevent future leftovers, consider scaling your recipe. If you're serving a smaller gathering, halve the ingredients while keeping the ratios intact. This way, you can avoid having fondue that goes to waste while still enjoying the deliciousness!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, though Fontina is traditional for its melting properties, you can mix in cheeses like Gruyère or Emmental.

→ What if I don't have a fondue pot?

You can use a heavy saucepan on the stove and transfer it to a heatproof bowl for serving.

→ How long can I keep leftover fondue?

Leftover fondue can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ What dippers work best?

Crusty bread, raw vegetables, and sliced meats all pair wonderfully with cheese fondue.