Fondue with Herb Infused Cheese

Name: Fondue with Herb Infused Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 garlic cloves, halved; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh chives, chopped; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Bread cubes or vegetables for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making fondue, especially when it's infused with fragrant herbs that elevate the flavors to another level. When I created this recipe, I wanted to find a balance between the classic cheesy goodness and a vibrant herbaceous note. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings with friends. The rich cheese melts beautifully, and the herbs give it an irresistible aroma, making each dip a delightful experience. Try pairing it with freshly baked bread or crisp vegetables for a perfect match!

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:01:12.310Z

When I first experimented with herb-infused cheese fondue, I was surprised by how simple yet transformative fresh herbs could be. The key is to let the herbs steep in the heating cheese blend so their flavors can fully develop. I often use a combination of thyme, rosemary, and chives, which not only add a fresh taste but also a lovely visual presentation.

One tip I’ve learned is to use a good quality Swiss cheese for the best melting properties. It creates a smooth texture that perfectly envelops whatever you choose to dip. Additionally, keep the heat low to maintain that creamy consistency – no one likes a clumpy fondue!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavors thanks to a blend of fresh herbs
Perfectly creamy texture for easy dipping
Ideal for social gatherings or family movie nights

      

Choosing the Right Cheese

The choice of cheese is crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor in your fondue. Gruyère offers a rich, nutty flavor and creamy melt, while Emmental adds a mild, slightly tangy note. Together, they create a harmonious balance. If you're in a bind, a good-quality Swiss or even a blend of cheddar and mozzarella can work in a pinch, but the unique flavor profile may change significantly.

When grating the cheese, using a box grater ensures evenly sized shreds that will melt uniformly. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses, as they often contain anti-caking agents that can lead to a grainy fondue. For optimal melting, work with cheese that has been left at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.

The Art of Infusing Flavors

Infusing the wine with garlic and herbs sets the foundation for your fondue's aromatic profile. Since the wine acts as a solvent for the cheese's flavors, the better quality wine you use, the more enhanced the final dish will be. Aim for a crisp, dry white, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which not only supports the cheese but also adds acidity that balances the richness.

Allowing the garlic to simmer in the wine on medium heat enriches the overall flavor. Keep an eye on it, ensuring it doesn't boil violently. Gentle heat helps to extract the garlic's sweetness and peppery notes, which will be crucial in creating a harmonious blend once the cheese is added.

Tips for a Perfect Fondue Experience

To keep your cheese fondue smooth, stir frequently once you add the cheese to the simmering wine. A whisk works wonders here, allowing you to incorporate air while evenly distributing the heat. If you notice your fondue becoming too thick, a splash of additional wine can help restore that luscious consistency. Conversely, if it's too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to evaporate excess moisture.

For easy dipping, consider parboiling or lightly steaming vegetables like broccoli or carrots to enhance their flavors without losing crunch. Serve your fondue with a variety of items ranging from rustic bread cubes to tart apples, ensuring a delightful contrast to the rich, cheesy base.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a flavorful herb-infused cheese fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 garlic cloves, halved
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh chives, chopped
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Bread cubes or vegetables for dipping

Make sure to prepare your dippers in advance so you can enjoy the fondue as it melts!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious herb-infused cheese fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

In a mixing bowl, toss together the grated Gruyère and Emmental with cornstarch. This will help prevent the cheese from clumping while melting.

Infuse the Wine

In a medium saucepan, heat the dry white wine over medium heat. Add the halved garlic cloves and bring to a gentle simmer.

Melt the Cheese

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

Add the Herbs

Once the cheese is fully melted, stir in the chopped herbs and season with freshly ground black pepper. Remove the garlic before serving.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the melted cheese to a fondue pot and serve immediately with cubes of bread or vegetables for dipping.

Keep your fondue warm on a low flame to enjoy as it melts.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to incorporate a splash of lemon juice or a hint of nutmeg into the cheese mixture. This adds a zesty twist that complements the herbs beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the fondue in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning. You may need to add a little white wine or milk to regain the desired consistency—just be patient to avoid clumping.

If preparing for a party, you can create the cheese base ahead of time and reheat before serving. This allows you to enjoy the social aspect without being tied to the stove. Just remember not to let it sit too long on low heat, as it could cause the cheese to separate.

Elegant Serving Ideas

A traditional fondue pot is a wonderful way to serve this dish, but you can also use a slow cooker for larger gatherings. Using the slow cooker enables you to maintain temperature easily without the risk of scorching. Line the base with a trivet if needed, to keep the heat even, and serve directly from the pot.

Pair your fondue with an array of accompaniments for an elevated dining experience. Think beyond the usual bread; include roasted potatoes, cured meats like prosciutto, or even an assortment of pickles for some tang. These contrasts in flavors and textures will make each dip a new adventure!

Herb Variations

While thyme, rosemary, and chives provide a fantastic herbaceous foundation, don't hesitate to experiment with other herbs based on your preference. A sprinkle of fresh basil or a hint of dill can offer unexpected and delightful flavors. If you’re in the mood for something more robust, a touch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat without overpowering the dish.

For those who prefer a more pungent flavor, incorporating crumbled blue cheese or smoked gouda into the mix can work wonders. Just remember to balance these stronger flavors with the right amount of wine to maintain the creamy consistency and depth typical of traditional fondue.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Fontina or Havarti in combination with the originals for different flavors.

→ Is there a non-alcoholic version?

Yes! You can substitute the dry white wine with vegetable or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic fondue.

→ How can I store leftover fondue?

Leftover fondue can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of wine or broth to restore creaminess.

→ What dippers work best?

Bread cubes (like baguette or sourdough), blanched vegetables (like broccoli or carrot sticks), and even cooked meats make delightful dippers for your fondue.