Fondue with Garlic and Thyme

Name: Fondue with Garlic and Thyme
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 clove garlic, halved; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Assorted vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making fondue, and this Fondue with Garlic and Thyme has quickly become one of my favorites. The rich flavors of melted cheese combined with the aromatic garlic and fresh thyme create a cozy and indulgent experience. Gathering around the pot with friends and family brings warmth and happiness, especially during colder months. I love to dip crusty bread and seasonal vegetables into this creamy delight, making each bite a delicious adventure. It's the perfect dish for entertaining and enjoying leisurely evenings together.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:01:21.268Z

When I first experimented with this fondue recipe, I was amazed by how well the garlic and thyme complemented the cheesy richness. After a few tries, I learned that sautéing the garlic beforehand unleashes its flavor without overpowering the cheese. My guests couldn't get enough of the aroma wafting through the kitchen, creating anticipation for the delicious dip. It's a sensory experience that truly elevates the casual fondue night.

One detail I always make sure to include is using a mix of cheeses; combining Gruyère and Emmental yields the perfect creamy texture. To enhance flavors, I also suggest adding a splash of white wine, which helps create a smooth, velvety consistency. Trust me, this recipe is bound to impress and make gatherings unforgettable!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture with the perfect balance of garlic and thyme
A delightful social experience that brings friends and family together
Versatile dipping options for endless combinations and flavors

      

The Art of Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheeses is crucial for achieving the ideal fondue texture and flavor. Gruyère and Emmental are both fantastic choices due to their excellent melting properties. Gruyère provides a rich, nutty flavor, while Emmental adds a slightly sweet undertone. If you’d like to experiment, consider blending in some sharp cheddar for an extra kick or swapping in a lactose-free cheese if you're accommodating dietary restrictions. Just be sure any cheese you select can melt smoothly for that perfect creamy consistency.

To ensure a smooth fondue, grate the cheeses rather than using chunks. This increases the surface area, allowing them to melt evenly and preventing clumping. Make sure to stir continuously over low heat and never rush the process, as high heat can cause the cheese to seize up and become grainy. If you notice this happening, a splash of wine can help rescue it by restoring moisture and fluidity.

Perfecting Your Dipping Options

While crusty bread is a traditional favorite, don’t shy away from trying a variety of dipping options. I love using sourdough, which offers a delightful tang that complements the cheese beautifully. Additionally, consider including blanched assorted vegetables like cauliflower florets and zucchini sticks for a fresh crunch. Roasted vegetables can also add a smoky richness that balances the creamy fondue. Just ensure all pieces are cut to a manageable size, ideally around one-inch cubes or sticks.

If you're preparing this for a gathering, you can get creative with dipping ingredients to cater to everyone's palate. Chunks of cooked sausage, marinated artichokes, or even apple slices can add interesting flavor contrasts. Be thoughtful about the flavors so they enhance the fondue experience instead of overwhelming it. It’s all about creating that shared experience around the pot—be adventurous!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the tastiest fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Assorted vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)

Make sure to have all your dippers ready for a delicious experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove. This will infuse a subtle garlic flavor into the cheese.

Melt the Cheese

In the fondue pot, combine the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses with the dry white wine and heat over low flame, stirring continuously until all the cheese has melted.

Add Flavorings

Once the cheese is fully melted and smooth, stir in the fresh thyme leaves and cornstarch mixed with a splash of wine. Season with black pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Keep the fondue warm and serve with crusty bread and assorted vegetables for dipping. Enjoy the melting pot of flavors!

Be careful to keep the pot warm but not boiling as you dip!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding a hint of nutmeg or a splash of brandy for depth of flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're hosting a party, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time. Simply combine the grated cheeses and cornstarch, mixing well to minimize clumping. Store this in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you're ready to fondue, just incorporate the mixture into the warmed wine with the fresh thyme for a quick and easy setup. This makes entertaining effortless and allows you more time to enjoy your guests' company.

Leftover fondue can be stored in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of wine or milk to restore its creamy consistency. Stir constantly until it’s smooth again. However, it’s important to note that reheating may alter the texture slightly, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fondue is too thick, don't despair! A common problem is when the cheese mixture becomes overly dense. Just add a bit more warm wine, a couple of tablespoons at a time, stirring well until the desired consistency is reached. Conversely, if the fondue is too thin, a small amount of cornstarch mixed in a splash of wine can help thicken it up without losing the creamy texture.

Another issue could be the cheese separating from the liquid, making your fondue grainy. This can happen when heating is too high or if the cheese hasn't been adequately mixed. To fix this, remove it from the heat, add a small amount of acid—like lemon juice or vinegar—and stir continually. This can help bring your fondue back together for that silky-smooth finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Fontina or Havarti.

→ What if I don’t have a fondue pot?

You can use a heavy pot over low heat, just be sure to monitor the temperature to avoid burning the cheese.

→ Is it possible to make fondue ahead of time?

You can prepare the cheese mixture ahead and gently reheat it when you're ready to serve.

→ What should I pair with fondue?

Crusty bread, roasted vegetables, and even sliced fruits like apples or pears are fantastic pairings!