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Transform your dinner or gathering into an elegant affair with this exquisite creamy 3 Cheese Fondue. This easy, no-bake recipe combines the rich flavors of Gruyere, Swiss, and Sharp Cheddar cheese, perfectly seasoned and melded into a smooth, velvety fondue. Ideal as a sumptuous starter or a delightful main course, this fondue will be the highlight of your culinary experience.

Fondue has always been one of my favorite foods. One of my favorite restaurants as a young adult was The Melting Pot in SLC, Ut. As soon as I became a mom, I wanted to bring the fun of fondue to my family. I love to make fondue on New Years Eve and Valentines. It’s something the whole family can enjoy and creates a longer activity to enjoy as a part of dinner.

preparing cheese fondue and dippers

The Chemistry of Fondue

The science behind the perfect cheese fondue lies in understanding the properties of cheese. Cheese, primarily composed of proteins and fats, requires careful handling to achieve the desired smooth texture. Heating cheese causes the protein structure to loosen, allowing the cheese to melt. However, overheating can cause these proteins to clump, resulting in a gritty texture. The addition of acidic white wine helps in maintaining a stable emulsion, preventing the proteins from clumping excessively. Additionally, cornstarch plays a crucial role as a stabilizer, ensuring the fondue remains smooth and evenly textured.

What makes cheese fondue smooth?

The key to smooth cheese fondue is the combination of acidic white wine, which helps maintain a stable emulsion, and cornstarch, which acts as a stabilizer to prevent separation and clumping of the cheese proteins.

Can you prepare cheese fondue in advance?

Yes, cheese fondue can be prepared in advance. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you need to, prepare it, let it cool, and then gently reheat it while stirring constantly to prevent separation.

What are the best cheeses for fondue?

The best cheeses for fondue are those that melt smoothly without becoming oily or gritty. Gruyere, Swiss and Sharp Cheddar, as used in this recipe, are excellent choices due to their melting properties and robust flavors.

What can you dip in cheese fondue?

Cheese fondue pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers. Try crusty bread, vegetables, apples, pears, grilled meats, pretzels, or crackers.

Cheese fondue

What is in cheese fondue?

Cooking White Wine

Adds acidity to stabilize the cheese emulsion and imparts a subtle flavor depth.

Gruyere, Swiss, & Sharp Cheddar Cheese

A blend of these cheeses offers a balance of nutty, sweet, and sharp flavors, along with excellent melting properties.

Cornstarch

Acts as a thickener and stabilizer, ensuring the fondue remains smooth.

How to Store Cheese Fondue

It is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently while stirring. Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture and consistency of the fondue.

Making Ahead Advice

Prepare the fondue just before serving to enjoy its best quality. If you must make it ahead, store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

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Why make cheese fondue?

It is perfect for cold winter evenings, intimate gatherings, or as a special treat during festive occasions. Its warming and communal nature makes it ideal for bringing people together.

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cheese fondue

Cheese Fondue

5 from 1 vote
Author: Madison Reid
Total Time: 20 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Creamy 3 cheese fondue. An easy no bake recipe that elevates your dinner or party to the next level. Use as a starter or a main course.

Ingredients 

  • 1 cup cooking white wine
  • 1/3 lb Gruyere Cheese shredded
  • 1/3 lb Swiss Cheese shredded
  • 1/3 lb Sharp Cheddar Shredded
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1 garlic clove crushed
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions

  • In a medium saucepan over medium low heat, pour the cooking white wine in and let it warm up
  • I like to freshly shred my cheese instead of buying it shredded, the flavor is stronger when freshly shredded. Shred your cheese and pour it into the warm white wine.
  • Stir the cheese mixture until it starts to melt.
  • Add salt, garlic, nutmeg & cornstarch
  • Stir until fully melted and smooth. Pour into a serving bowl and dip veggies, fruits, breads and crackers.

Nutrition

Calories: 238kcal Carbohydrates: 3g Protein: 15g Fat: 18g Saturated Fat: 11g Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g Monounsaturated Fat: 5g Cholesterol: 57mg Sodium: 366mg Potassium: 45mg Fiber: 0.04g Sugar: 0.2g Vitamin A: 526IU Vitamin C: 0.1mg Calcium: 494mg Iron: 0.1mg

Have you tried this recipe?

I’d love to see it! Follow @_mrs.madi_ on Instagram and tag your photos with #mrsmadi.