Fondue with Fontina and Black Pepper

Name: Fondue with Fontina and Black Pepper
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g fontina cheese, grated; 100g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 clove garlic, halved; Freshly cracked black pepper to taste; Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Favorites

I absolutely love the warmth and comfort that comes from a bubbling pot of fondue. This Fondue with Fontina and Black Pepper is a perfect dish for gatherings or cozy nights in. The creamy fontina melts beautifully, creating that dreamy texture we all crave. Adding freshly cracked black pepper elevates the flavors and gives it a delightful kick. As I stir the fondue, I can't help but feel the joy of sharing this indulgent treat with family and friends, dipping crusty bread and veggies into the rich goodness.

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:18:36.753Z

When I first tried making fondue at home, I was pleasantly surprised by how straightforward it was! With just a few ingredients, I transformed my kitchen into a Swiss chalet. The secret to my fondue's success lies in the quality of the fontina cheese and the balance of flavors. Using freshly cracked black pepper instead of pre-ground made all the difference in elevating the dish.

Each batch was an invitation for creativity. I experimented with various dippers, and I found that crispy bread and roasted vegetables paired exquisitely. This experience redefined comfort food for me, and now I can't wait to share it with you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that satisfies every cheese lover
Perfectly balanced with a hint of spice from black pepper
Great for social gatherings or an intimate meal with loved ones

The Role of Cheese in Fondue

Choosing the right cheese is crucial for a successful fondue. Fontina offers a creamy, rich flavor that melts effortlessly, while Gruyère adds depth with its nutty undertones. This combination ensures a smooth texture that coats your dippers beautifully. If you are unable to find Gruyère, you can substitute it with Emmental cheese for a similar flavor profile.

Grating the cheese before adding it to the pot allows for faster melting and a smoother overall consistency. It's best to use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the melting process. For an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing in a small amount of aged cheese, like Parmesan.

Importance of Temperature Control

Heating the white wine to the proper temperature is key to a successful fondue. Aim for steaming, but avoid boiling, as high heat can cause the cheese to become grainy. A medium heat setting is ideal; you want to see gentle bubbles, not a rolling boil. I usually monitor the heat closely, adjusting as needed to maintain that gentle simmer throughout the melting phase.

Once the cheese is added, continuous stirring is necessary to avoid hot spots that can cause the cheese to seize. A wooden spoon or silicone spatula is perfect for this, as they provide even pressure while you mix. If the cheese does begin to clump or become grainy, add a splash more wine and keep stirring until smooth again.

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

200g fontina cheese, grated
100g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 clove garlic, halved
Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Serve with your choice of dippers such as crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or apple slices.

Instructions

Prepare the Pot

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

Combine Ingredients

In a bowl, mix the grated fontina and Gruyère with cornstarch. This helps to keep the cheese from clumping together.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the fondue pot and heat it over medium heat, until it's steaming but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the warm wine, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Seasoning

Stir in freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch of nutmeg, adjusting to your taste preference.

Serve

Once melted, keep the fondue warm over low heat, and serve with your chosen dippers.

Enjoy your fondue with friends and family, making memories with every dip!

Pro Tips

Use a mix of cheeses for added depth of flavor. Remember to keep the heat gentle to avoid burning the cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your fondue with a variety of dippers to enhance the experience. Crusty bread is a classic choice, but consider adding blanched vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower for a fresh crunch. Fried potatoes or even cubes of cooked sausage can elevate the meal and offer hearty alternatives. Don't forget to provide long forks for easy dipping and to keep things tidy.

To keep the fondue warm and ready for dipping, use a small burner under the pot. If you find the fondue thickening as it cools, stir in a bit more warm wine to loosen it up. This ensures that every bite remains creamy and delectable throughout your gathering.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time. Simply combine the grated cheeses with cornstarch, and store in an airtight container until you’re ready to melt. This makes hosting easier, as you can focus on your guests without the last-minute scramble in the kitchen.

If you have leftover fondue, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. To reheat, place it in a small saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of wine or milk while stirring to restore its creamy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to uneven heating and potentially separate the cheese.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can substitute with other melting cheeses like emmental or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

→ What can I dip in the cheese?

Crusty bread, raw vegetables, chicken, and even fruits like apple slices work wonderfully.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store cooled fondue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Is fondue gluten-free?

The fondue itself is gluten-free, but ensure your dippers are also gluten-free if needed.