Fondue with Raclette Cheese

Name: Fondue with Raclette Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 500g raclette cheese, grated; 250ml dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp kirsch (cherry brandy); Salt and pepper, to taste; Crusty bread, cubed; Boiled baby potatoes; Sliced cured meats (e.g., prosciutto, salami); Pickles and gherkins; Fresh vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)

Highlighted under: Authentic World Food Ideas

I absolutely adore making fondue with raclette cheese, especially during cozy gatherings with friends. The melty, gooey texture of the cheese paired with a variety of dippable delights makes for an unforgettable culinary experience. Watching everyone gather around the pot, eagerly dipping, chatting, and laughing is one of my favorite parts. It’s also incredibly easy to prepare, and customizing it with your favorite sides elevates the whole experience. Trust me, once you try it, fondue will become your go-to for entertaining.

Created by

Megan Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:17:35.540Z

When I first tried making fondue, I was surprised by how simple and delightful it was. Using raclette cheese adds a unique flavor that distinguishes it from other types of fondue. I learned that the best way to melt raclette is to use a double boiler, which allows for gentle heating without burning the cheese—this ensures a creamy consistency.

One memorable evening, I decided to host a fondue night, and it was a hit! I paired the cheese with roasted potatoes and crunchy bread, but the surprise was adding pickles for a tangy crunch. This combination made the flavor profile fantastic, and everyone left raving about it.

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Decadent, rich melting cheese that creates a communal dining experience
Versatile ingredients that can cater to any palate, from veggies to meats
Perfect for winter gatherings and warming up with friends and family

      

Key Technique Tips for Fondue Perfection

One crucial aspect of making fondue is to maintain the right temperature while melting the cheese. Heating the white wine until it's steaming, but not boiling, is key. If it boils, the cheese may seize up or become grainy instead of creamy. Use a medium-low heat and stir continuously when adding the cheese mixture to ensure even melting and a silky texture.

To avoid clumping, it's essential to mix the cornstarch thoroughly with the grated cheese before adding it to the wine. This step not only helps with the consistency but also prevents the cheese from sticking together as it melts. Aim for a uniform coating; this will promote a glossy, smooth fondue rather than a lumpy one.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

Raclette cheese is the star of this fondue, offering a distinct flavor and melting quality. If raclette is hard to find, a mix of Gruyère and Emmental can be a good substitute, providing a similarly rich and nutty taste. Be cautious that each cheese behaves differently, so maintain the same measurement to ensure the right consistency.

For those looking to lighten the recipe, you can substitute half of the cheese with a lower-fat cheese, but be mindful that this might affect the texture. Additionally, if you're avoiding alcohol, substitute the white wine with vegetable broth or a non-alcoholic white wine for a milder flavor that still retains some acidity.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful fondue experience:

Fondue Ingredients

500g raclette cheese, grated
250ml dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp kirsch (cherry brandy)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Dippers

Crusty bread, cubed
Boiled baby potatoes
Sliced cured meats (e.g., prosciutto, salami)
Pickles and gherkins
Fresh vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)

Don’t forget to be creative with the dippers for a personalized touch!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious fondue:

Prepare the Pot

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

Create the Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, mix the grated cheese with cornstarch. This will help thicken the fondue and make it creamy.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the pot and heat over medium-low until it’s steaming but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the pot, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Add Kirsch and Season

Stir in the kirsch and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve with Dippers

Keep the fondue warm and serve with your chosen dippers.

Enjoy the interactive experience of fondue with friends!

Pro Tips

For the best texture, ensure both the cheese and wine are at room temperature before starting. You can enhance your fondue by experimenting with different types of cheese mixes!

Serving Ideas and Pairings

When it comes to serving, consider a variety of dippers to provide texture contrasts and flavor complements. Along with cubed crusty bread and boiled baby potatoes, think about including something unexpected, like grilled vegetables for a smoky flavor or even fruits like apples for a sweet and savory combination.

To elevate the fondue experience, consider offering a selection of dipping sauces on the side, such as a zesty mustard or a tangy vinaigrette. These can add another layer of flavor to your meal and let guests personalize their plates, making the gathering feel even more interactive and fun.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cheese mixture earlier in the day. Simply combine the grated cheese with cornstarch and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, heat the wine and add the cold cheese mixture directly, adjusting heat as necessary for a smooth melt.

If you have leftovers, cool the fondue completely before storing it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to two days. To reheat, gently warm it over low heat while stirring continuously to restore its creamy texture. You may need to add a splash of wine or broth to loosen it up.

Questions About Recipes

→ What type of cheese works best for fondue?

Raclette is ideal, but Gruyère and Emmental also work well for a delicious mix.

→ Can I make fondue without alcohol?

Yes! Substitute wine with vegetable or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option.

→ How should I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I use a slow cooker for fondue?

Absolutely! A slow cooker is great for keeping fondue warm, just ensure it's set on low.