Fondue with Raclette Cheese

Name: Fondue with Raclette Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g raclette cheese, grated; 200ml dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Black pepper, to taste; Fresh bread, cut into cubes; Vegetables (optional, like broccoli or bell peppers)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making fondue with raclette cheese, especially during cold winter evenings. There’s something so comforting about dipping crispy bread into a warm, gooey cheese mixture. The flavor of the raclette, with its earthy and nutty undertones, truly elevates the experience, making it a delightful treat for gatherings or cozy nights in. Each bite brings a rich and satisfying taste that keeps us coming back for more. What I cherish most is the interactive nature of this dish, allowing everyone to customize their dining experience.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:49:06.869Z

When I first decided to try making fondue with raclette cheese, I was unsure what to expect. I gathered fresh ingredients and set up the fondue pot, excited to dive into this cheese lover's dream. The blend of white wine and creamy raclette melted harmoniously, creating a heavenly aroma that filled my kitchen.

One tip I learned was to use a dedicated fondue pot to keep the cheese at the perfect, melty temperature. As we dipped chunks of crusty bread and even some fresh vegetables, I realized that this dish not only satisfies the palate but also brings people together in a warm, convivial atmosphere.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent richness of melted raclette cheese
Fun and interactive dining experience
Perfect for sharing with friends and family

      

Understanding Raclette Cheese

Raclette cheese is a semi-hard cheese known for its amazing melting properties. When heated, it transforms into a luscious, gooey texture that makes fondue so indulgent. For the best results, opt for high-quality raclette cheese, ideally from a reputable cheese shop. Its nutty and earthy flavor profile enhances the overall taste of the fondue, making it essential to use a cheese that’s properly aged and has a good fat content, typically around 28-32%.

If you can't find raclette cheese, Gruyère or Emmental can be suitable substitutes, though the flavor will differ slightly. These cheeses also melt well and add a rich taste to the fondue, creating a similar experience. However, adjusting the cheese combination slightly may require experimenting with the amount of wine or cornstarch to achieve the desired creaminess.

Tips for Perfect Melt

To achieve a silky smooth melted cheese, it’s vital to mix cornstarch with the cheese before adding it to the wine. The cornstarch acts as an emulsifier, preventing the cheese from separating and creating a grainy texture. Tossing the cheese with cornstarch ensures it melts uniformly and binds better with the wine, creating a luxurious fondue that is delightfully creamy. Remember to incorporate the cheese gradually while continuously stirring to maintain that smooth consistency.

Maintaining the right temperature is crucial when melting the cheese. Keep the heat low to medium; you want to gently warm the wine before adding the cheese – about 160°F (70°C) is ideal. Too much heat can cause the cheese to seize, resulting in a tough texture. If you notice the cheese starting to clump, add a splash more wine and keep stirring until smooth. My personal tip is to use a wooden spoon for mixing, as it helps to scrape the bottom of the pot and ensures an even melt.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

When serving fondue, variety is key. Beyond just bread cubes, include an assortment of dippables like blanched vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers, or even roasted potatoes. These add color and additional textures to your fondue experience. For an extra indulgent twist, consider featuring cured meats like prosciutto or salami, which pair beautifully with the rich melted cheese.

Don’t forget about drinks! A dry white wine pairs excellently with the fondue, enhancing the flavor of the raclette cheese, but you can also opt for a light beer, cider, or herbal tea. Offering a selection of dipping sauces on the side, such as Dijon mustard or a tangy aioli, can lead to some fun flavor combinations. Make your fondue party interactive by encouraging guests to experiment with different combinations while they dip.

Ingredients

For the Fondue

400g raclette cheese, grated
200ml dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Black pepper, to taste
Fresh bread, cut into cubes
Vegetables (optional, like broccoli or bell peppers)

Instructions

Prepare the Fondue Pot

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

Mix the Cheese and Wine

In a separate bowl, toss the grated raclette cheese with cornstarch to help it melt smoothly. Gradually mix in the white wine in the fondue pot over low heat, stirring gently.

Add the Cheese

Once the wine is warm, gradually add the cheese mixture while stirring constantly. Make sure the cheese melts evenly and becomes creamy.

Season and Serve

Once the cheese is fully melted, season with black pepper to taste. Place the fondue pot on a heat source to keep warm, and serve with chunks of bread and vegetables for dipping.

Pro Tips

For an unforgettable flavor, consider adding a dash of nutmeg or a splash of kirsch to the cheese mixture. Experiment with different dippables like pickles or cured meats for a diverse experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning a fondue night, you can prepare the cheese and wine mixture in advance. Simply combine the grated cheese and cornstarch as directed, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. On the day you serve, heat the mixture with wine in the fondue pot, stirring until melted. This saves time and allows you to enjoy the evening without last-minute preparations.

Fondue is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the cooled mixture in a container in the fridge and consume within two days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of wine as needed to regain that creamy texture. Avoid the microwave, as it may cause the cheese to become rubbery.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common issue when making fondue is the cheese separating or becoming grainy. This typically occurs if the cheese is overheated or if it hasn’t been properly mixed with cornstarch beforehand. Always add the cheese gradually to the warmed wine and stir continuously to create a cohesive mixture. If separation happens, a splash of additional wine can help bring it back together.

If you find your fondue too thick or difficult to dip into, adjust the consistency by adding a touch more wine, about one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired thickness. It should be easily pourable but still cling to your dippers. Don't rush the melting process; patience is key as you coax the cheese into that perfectly luscious, gooey state.

Variations to Enhance Your Fondue

For a delightful twist, consider infusing your fondue with flavors such as garlic or herbs. Incorporating minced garlic into the mixture can deepen the overall flavor profile. Alternatively, a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic touch. Just remember not to overwhelm the fundamental flavor of the raclette itself, so use these additions sparingly.

Another fun variation is to experiment with different types of cheeses for a mixed cheese fondue. Combining raclette with softer cheeses like Brie or tangy cheeses like blue can create unique flavor profiles. Just ensure that the fat content is appropriate to maintain a good melt, and as always, adjust the wine content based on your cheese choices.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cheeses in fondue?

Yes, you can combine raclette with other melting cheeses like Gruyère or Emmental for different flavors.

→ What types of bread are best for dipping?

A crusty French baguette or sourdough works best for holding the cheese during dipping.

→ Can I make fondue ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare the fondue fresh, but you can prepare the cheese and wine mixture and store it in the fridge until you're ready to heat it.

→ Is fondue just for cheese?

Not at all! Fondue can also be made with chocolate for a delicious dessert option, or broth for cooking meats and vegetables.