Fondue with Smoked Cheese

Name: Fondue with Smoked Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g smoked Gouda cheese, grated; 150ml dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Smoked paprika, to taste; Fresh bread cubes, for dipping; Assorted vegetables, for dipping

Highlighted under: International Food

I absolutely love making Fondue with Smoked Cheese because it brings a cozy, communal experience to any gathering. The rich, smoky flavors mingle beautifully, creating a delightful dip that pairs perfectly with fresh bread and vegetables. Each bite feels indulgent and satisfying, yet it's surprisingly easy to prepare. The warm, gooey texture is irresistible, and it never fails to impress guests. Whenever I have friends over, this fondue is always the star of the show and makes for an entertaining way to enjoy a meal together.

Created by

Philippa Grantley

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:21:35.396Z

When I first tried Fondue with Smoked Cheese at a small Swiss restaurant, I was hooked. The moment I dipped my bread into that warm pot and tasted the melting cheese, I knew I had to recreate it at home. I experimented with different combinations of cheeses, and found that using a mix of Gruyère and smoked Gouda created the perfect balance of flavors.

To enhance the smokiness, I like to add a dash of smoked paprika and a splash of white wine to the mixture. This not only deepens the flavor but also adds a lovely aromatic touch that fills the kitchen. Once I perfected it, this fondue became my go-to recipe for gatherings with family and friends, ensuring everyone leaves smiling.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, smoky cheese flavor that tantalizes your taste buds
Warm, gooey texture perfect for dipping
A fun and interactive dining experience with friends and family

Choosing the Right Cheese

The choice of cheese is pivotal in creating that smoky, flavorful fondue. Gruyère brings a nutty and slightly sweet flavor while adding creaminess. Smoked Gouda contributes to the rich profile with its distinct smokiness. If you're unable to find these cheeses, you can substitute them with Fontina and a mild smoked cheddar, but be mindful that the balance of flavors may shift slightly.

Make sure to grate your cheese very finely; this helps it melt evenly and quickly without clumping. A food processor with a grating attachment works wonders here. Remember, your fondue's texture greatly relies on how well the cheese incorporates with the wine and cornstarch.

Perfecting the Fondue Technique

Maintaining the right temperature during the cheese melting process is crucial. Too high a heat can cause the cheese to separate and become grainy, so keep that fondue pot on medium-low heat. Stir the mixture continuously until it reaches a glossy, silky consistency; this usually takes about 5-8 minutes after adding the cheese.

If you notice a slight separation, don’t panic! You can whisk in a bit more cornstarch dissolved in a touch of white wine. This should help bring it back together and restore that delightful smooth texture we desire in a good fondue.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smooth.

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g smoked Gouda cheese, grated
150ml dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Smoked paprika, to taste
Fresh bread cubes, for dipping
Assorted vegetables, for dipping

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious fondue.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove to infuse flavor. Discard the garlic after rubbing.

Mix the Cheeses

In a mixing bowl, combine the grated Gruyère and smoked Gouda with the cornstarch. This helps prevent clumping when melting.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the fondue pot and heat it over medium-low heat until it's just simmering.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the pot, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Stir in the lemon juice and smoked paprika.

Serve

Once the cheese is melted and creamy, serve immediately with fresh bread cubes and assorted vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious smoked cheese fondue!

Pro Tips

For an extra smoky flavor, consider adding some crispy bacon bits as a topping. This adds a delightful crunch and enhances the overall experience.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your fondue experience, consider adding a variety of dippers beyond fresh bread and veggies. Sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon bits, or even apple slices can complement the smoky flavor of the cheese beautifully. I personally love to have some pickled vegetables on hand to add a tangy contrast.

Using long forks or skewers enhances the communal experience and keeps the hands away from the cheese. Be sure to keep your fondue pot on a warming burner or heat source to prevent it from cooling too quickly while you enjoy the meal.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time by grating and combining the cheeses and cornstarch. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before melting, which will help it incorporate smoothly when you’re ready to cook.

The fondue itself is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, allow it to cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it gently in a saucepan or microwave, adding a splash of wine to restore creaminess if necessary.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Experiment with your favorite cheeses, but aim for a mix of both mild and smoky varieties for the best flavor.

→ What if I don't have a fondue pot?

You can use a heavy-bottomed saucepan on low heat. Just make sure to stir continuously to prevent burning.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

While fondue is best served fresh, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving.

→ What should I dip in fondue?

Common dippers include chunks of fresh bread, blanched vegetables, and even fruits like apples or pears for a unique twist.