Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Kirsch

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Kirsch
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 300ml dry white wine; 2 cloves garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 50ml Kirsch; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Crusty bread, cut into cubes

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making fondue, especially when it's a blend of rich Swiss cheese and a splash of Kirsch. This delightful dish not only warms the soul but also serves as a perfect centerpiece for gatherings with family and friends. As I dip crusty bread into the molten cheese, the creamy texture coupled with the unique flavor of Kirsch creates an experience that's undeniably comforting. Whether it's a snowy evening or a festive celebration, this recipe has become a must-try in my kitchen.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:16:15.707Z

When I first tried making fondue at home, I was nervous about getting the cheese just right. After a few experiments, I discovered that a combination of Gruyère and Emmental gives the best flavor and texture. Adding Kirsch not only enhances the cheesy goodness but also adds a subtle sweetness that is absolutely irresistible. The trick is to keep the heat low to avoid clumping - trust me, it's worth the extra care!

What makes this fondue truly special is the experience of sharing it with loved ones. I remember the first time we gathered around the pot; laughter and conversation flowed as freely as the cheese. To make things even more fun, I like to provide various dippables like roasted vegetables and fruits. It elevates the entire experience and ensures everyone finds something they love.

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Deliciously rich and velvety texture.
The perfect blend of savory cheese with a hint of sweetness from Kirsch.
A fun and interactive dining experience for gatherings.

      

Choosing the Right Cheese

For achieving the best flavor and texture in your fondue, it's crucial to select high-quality Swiss cheeses. Gruyère offers a robust, slightly nutty flavor, while Emmental complements it with a milder taste and delightful melting properties. If you can’t find these cheeses, look for other melting cheeses like Fontina or a blend of Gouda. Just ensure the chosen cheeses are grated finely for even melting, avoiding any clumps in your fondue.

Aim to combine equal parts of Gruyère and Emmental to create a balanced flavor profile. When grating the cheese, consider using a box grater or a food processor for efficiency. A key aspect of fondue is its smooth texture, which is best achieved when the cheese is compactly grated and mixed with the liquids gradually over low heat.

The Role of Wine and Kirsch

The inclusion of dry white wine is not just a flavor enhancer; it also helps in achieving that silky, smooth consistency which is the hallmark of a good cheese fondue. Look for wines with good acidity, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling, as the acidity helps to prevent the cheese from becoming stringy. Avoid overly sweet wines, as they can clash with the savory notes of the cheese.

Kirsch, a cherry brandy, adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness that elevates the overall dish. While it’s an essential ingredient, its quantity can be adjusted if you prefer a less pronounced cherry flavor. If you don't have Kirsch, you can substitute it with a splash of apple brandy or omit it entirely, although this may alter the charming complexity of the fondue.

Serving and Enjoying Fondue

To enhance your fondue experience, use thick chunks of crusty bread, like a sourdough or baguette, which provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy cheese. If you're feeling adventurous, consider including dippable options like blanched vegetables, cured meats, or even diced apples. For a rustic appeal, present your fondue pot on a wooden board with your selected dippers attractively arranged around it.

Fondue is best enjoyed immediately after preparation to ensure it remains warm and gooey. If it starts to cool and thicken, you can gently reheat it over low heat, stirring in a bit of wine to regain its smooth texture. If you're serving a crowd, consider having a fondue fork for each guest, which not only makes dipping easier but also adds an interactive and fun element to your meal.

Ingredients

To make this delicious fondue, gather the following ingredients:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
300ml dry white wine
2 cloves garlic, halved
1 tablespoon lemon juice
50ml Kirsch
1 teaspoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread, cut into cubes

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to enjoy a fantastic fondue experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect cheese fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic cloves, then discard the garlic.

Combine the Ingredients

In the pot, combine the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheese with the white wine and lemon juice. Heat gently over medium-low, stirring constantly until the cheese melts.

Add Kirsch and Thicken

Mix the cornstarch with the Kirsch, then stir it into the melted cheese. Continue stirring until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.

Season and Serve

Season with freshly ground black pepper, then keep warm over a low flame. Serve immediately with crusty bread cubes for dipping.

Enjoy your fondue with a glass of white wine for an optimal experience!

Pro Tips

For best results, use high-quality Swiss cheese and ensure your pot is warm, not boiling, to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy.

Storage Tips

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, leftover cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, avoid high heat, as this can separate the cheese; instead, warm it gently over low heat, adding a splash of wine or water to facilitate the melting process and restore its creamy texture.

If you're planning to make fondue ahead of time, consider preparing the cheese mixture and keeping it chilled until you’re ready to serve. Just remember to reheat it slowly to prevent any clumping or graininess in the cheese.

Scaling Up

Scaling this fondue recipe for larger gatherings is straightforward. For every additional three to four people, increase the cheese amounts by 100g each and add an extra 100ml of white wine. Maintaining the same ratio will ensure consistent flavor and texture, which is important when cooking in larger volumes.

If you're using a larger pot, ensure you monitor the heat closely. A larger surface area may require a lower setting on your heat source to prevent the cheese from scorching on the bottom before it melts evenly throughout.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fondue becomes too thick, or if the cheese separates, there's an easy fix: add a small amount of warm wine or broth slowly while stirring continuously until you reach the desired consistency. The key is to add it gradually to avoid overshooting the texture.

Another common issue is the cheese clumping. This can happen if the cheese is added too quickly or if the heat is too high. Always aim for a slow, medium-low heat and incorporate the cheese gradually for the creamiest fondue results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cheeses for fondue?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheese blends. Just be sure to include a melting cheese like Gruyère or Fontina.

→ What can I use for dipping besides bread?

Vegetables like broccoli, cherry tomatoes, or even fruits like apple slices and pears pair wonderfully with fondue.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stove while stirring to restore creaminess.

→ Is fondue safe for a large gathering?

Absolutely! It's a great way to serve guests at a party, just ensure everyone has their own utensils to maintain hygiene.