Cheese Fondue for Two

Name: Cheese Fondue for Two
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup Emmental cheese, grated; 1 garlic clove, halved; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Cubed bread for dipping

Highlighted under: Authentic Favorites

I love making cheese fondue for two because it creates an intimate dining experience that's both fun and decadent. The joy of dipping bread into rich, gooey melted cheese brings back memories of romantic evenings and cozy gatherings. With just a few high-quality ingredients like Gruyère and Emmental, you can create a masterpiece that's perfect for date night or a casual get-together. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to prepare, making it an accessible indulgence for anyone who enjoys good food and good company.

Created by

Selene Woodward

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:46:36.953Z

Making cheese fondue is a delightful experience that always leaves me smiling. The key is to use a combination of cheeses, which not only enhances the flavor but also changes the texture. I prefer to use Gruyère and Emmental for their meltability and rich taste, which really elevate the dish.

One tip I swear by is to anchor the cheese sauce with a little white wine and garlic. It not only infuses flavor but prevents the cheese from clumping together. Trust me—this is the secret to a luxurious fondue that will have you and your partner coming back for more!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, flavorful cheese blend that melts beautifully
Interactive dining experience perfect for sharing
Simple and quick to make, yet incredibly indulgent

      

The Importance of Cheese Selection

The choice of cheese is crucial for achieving the ideal texture and flavor in your fondue. Gruyère is known for its nutty and slightly sweet profile, while Emmental contributes a creamy, mild flavor. Together, they create a beautifully balanced mixture that melts seamlessly. When selecting your cheeses, consider visiting a specialty cheese shop to find high-quality, freshly grated varieties. Pre-grated cheese often contains stabilizers that prevent a smooth melt, so always opt for fresh, whole pieces if possible.

For a fun twist, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Aged cheddar can add a sharp component, while fontina provides additional creaminess. If you want to make a lower-fat version, you could use part-skim cheeses but be aware that they may not melt as smoothly. Maintaining a blend with at least one traditional melting cheese like Gruyère or Emmental is key to achieving that luscious texture.

Mastering the Heat

Heating the cheese mixture requires patience, and the right temperature is essential. It's best to start on a medium-low heat after adding the wine and lemon juice to the pot. This gentle approach prevents the cheese from clumping and ensures that it melts uniformly. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or whisk until the mixture becomes glossy and fully integrated, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Avoid boiling, as this can lead to a grainy texture that ruins the fondue experience.

A fondue pot is ideal for maintaining an even temperature, but if you don't have one, a double boiler can work in a pinch. Just keep an eye on it to prevent overheating. If you notice lumps forming, reduce the heat immediately and keep stirring to smooth out any inconsistencies. The goal is a velvety blend that clings to your bread without being too runny.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Fondue Ingredients

1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup Emmental cheese, grated
1 garlic clove, halved
1 cup dry white wine
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Cubed bread for dipping

Make sure to have your dipping items ready!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect cheese fondue:

Prepare the Pot

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

Combine Ingredients

In the pot, combine the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses with the cornstarch.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the pot, then heat gently over medium-low, stirring continuously.

Melt the Cheese

As the wine heats, gradually add the cheese mixture, stirring until melted and smooth.

Season and Serve

Once the mixture is creamy and well combined, season with black pepper and serve immediately with cubed bread for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious cheese fondue!

Pro Tips

For a perfect cheese fondue, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-packaged. This helps achieve a smoother, creamier texture.

Serving Suggestions

While cubed bread is the classic dipping choice, you can enhance your fondue experience with a variety of accompaniments. Roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms add color and flavor. If you want a heartier option, consider including boiled potatoes or blanched asparagus for an elegant touch. Skewers of cooked sausage or cured meats also complement the rich cheese beautifully, providing a savory contrast that rounds out the dish.

For an interactive twist, prepare a selection of sauces like mustard or pesto for dipping alongside the cheese. This allows your guests to customize their experience. You could even include a charcuterie board to create a festive atmosphere, showcasing meats, fruits, and nuts that pair well with the fondue flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, don’t worry; cheese fondue can be stored! Place the cooled fondue into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, return it to the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of wine or milk to help achieve the original creamy texture. Stir continuously until it warms through, and avoid high temperatures that could make the cheese clumpy.

Reheating directly in the microwave is possible, but it will require careful attention. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring between each to ensure even warming. If you notice separation, a quick blitz with an immersion blender can help restore that smooth consistency before serving again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While Gruyère and Emmental are traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Fontina or even a smoked cheese for added flavor.

→ What can I dip in cheese fondue?

Classic accompaniments include cubed bread, vegetables like broccoli and carrot sticks, or even cooked meats like chicken or sausage.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

If you have leftovers, let the fondue cool, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. You can reheat it gently on the stove with a splash more wine.

→ Can I make cheese fondue without alcohol?

Absolutely! You can substitute the wine with a non-alcoholic white grape juice or more broth, though the flavor will differ slightly.