Fondue with Caramelized Garlic

Name: Fondue with Caramelized Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 head of garlic, whole (for caramelizing); Olive oil (for drizzling); Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Fresh vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes and bell peppers); Cooked and cut sausage or meats

Highlighted under: Home Baking Favorites

I absolutely adore hosting fondue nights, and this Fondue with Caramelized Garlic is a standout at any gathering. The combination of rich melted cheese and the sweet, nutty flavor of caramelized garlic creates a delightful experience for the senses. Each dip transports you to a cozy Swiss lodge, where the warmth and flavor mingle beautifully. Plus, it’s an interactive way for guests to enjoy the meal, making it perfect for celebrations or casual get-togethers. This recipe is my go-to for any occasion where I want to impress!

Created by

Hannah Lewis

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:44:53.910Z

During one of my recent culinary adventures, I decided to elevate the classic cheese fondue by infusing it with caramelized garlic. The process of slow cooking the garlic until it reaches a golden-hued sweetness adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. As I stirred the cheese blend, I noticed how the garlic transformed the dish into something extraordinary, making it a hit among friends and family.

One crucial tip I’ve learned is to use a mix of cheeses—Gruyère and Emmental—along with a splash of white wine to create the perfect melting consistency. This not only enhances the flavor but ensures a creamy texture that coats each piece of bread or vegetable perfectly. It’s an unforgettable dish that will have everyone coming back for more!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The sweet and savory balance of caramelized garlic enhances the cheesy goodness.
An interactive dining experience that brings people together.
Perfectly paired with crusty bread and fresh vegetables for dipping.

      

Selecting the Best Cheeses

For the perfect fondue, the choice of cheese is crucial. Gruyère brings a nutty, rich flavor, while Emmental adds a mild sweetness and excellent melting qualities. Opt for high-quality, block cheeses and grate them yourself to ensure they melt smoothly. Pre-grated cheeses often contain additives that can affect texture and flavor. Aim for a fine grate, as this allows the cheese to melt evenly and combine with the wine seamlessly.

If you can't find Gruyère or Emmental, Swiss cheese or Fontina can serve as suitable substitutes. However, do ensure that any cheese you choose has good melting properties. If going for stronger flavors, consider adding a touch of smoked cheese for an interesting twist. Remember, balancing the flavors is key to a delightful fondue experience.

Perfecting the Caramelized Garlic

Caramelizing garlic may seem simple, but a few tips can elevate the flavor. Use a head of garlic with plump cloves and fresh skin to achieve the best results. Roasting brings out the sweetness while mellowing the sharpness that raw garlic can wield. Keep an eye on the garlic as it roasts; you’re looking for a golden-brown color, which should take about 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). If it begins to char, reduce the heat slightly or recheck the wrapping to ensure it’s sealed well.

Once roasted, allow the garlic to cool slightly before handling. Squeezing the softened cloves directly into the fondue not only infuses it with a sweet, nutty flavor but also adds a creamy texture. If you end up with extra caramelized garlic, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week and used to flavor other dishes, lending its unique taste to pasta or roasted vegetables.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

The beauty of fondue lies in the dipping options you choose, and variety can enhance the overall experience. Crusty bread is a classic choice, but consider offering a mix of textures and flavors. Try adding sourdough, baguette, or even soft pretzels for more diversity. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and cherry tomatoes can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese, while cooked meats like sausage can add a savory touch.

For a themed fondue night, include a selection of artisanal mustards, pickles, and dried fruit to complement the cheese's richness. You might also provide small bowls of herbs or spices for guests to customize their dips. Always keep the fondue heated as you serve; a fondue pot with a flame will keep the cheese gooey and inviting throughout the gathering.

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1 head of garlic, whole (for caramelizing)
Olive oil (for drizzling)

Dipping Items

Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Fresh vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes and bell peppers)
Cooked and cut sausage or meats

Instructions

Caramelize the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the top off the whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 30 minutes until soft and caramelized.

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, toss the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheese with cornstarch and set aside.

Make the Fondue

In a fondue pot, heat the white wine over medium heat. Once it simmers, add the minced garlic and stir to combine. Gradually add the cheese mixture, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Add Lemon Juice and Season

Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper. Once the caramelized garlic is cooled, squeeze the cloves into the fondue and mix well.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the fondue hot with assorted dippers like bread cubes and vegetables. Enjoy a fun night of dipping!

Pro Tips

For a unique flavor twist, try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cheese mixture while it melts for extra aromatic notes.

Troubleshooting Fondue Issues

If your cheese fondue separates or becomes grainy, it usually indicates that the cheese hasn't melted properly. To fix this, lower the heat and give it a gentle stir. Adding a bit more white wine can help bring it back to a smooth consistency. Avoid overheating, as too much heat can cause the proteins to seize and release fat, leading to a lumpy texture.

In case your fondue is too thick, don’t worry! You can thin it out by incorporating a little more wine, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, sprinkle in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with a few drops of water to help it thicken up without clumping.

Make-Ahead Tips

Fondue can be prepped in advance, making it a stress-free option for entertaining. You can caramelize the garlic up to a week beforehand and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. For the cheese mixture, combine the grated cheeses and cornstarch, then refrigerate until you're ready to make the fondue. This can save you time when hosting and ensures that everything is ready to go when it’s time to serve.

When ready to prepare the fondue, simply heat the wine, add the garlic and cheese mixture, and follow the remaining steps. Having the components prepped allows you to focus on socializing with your guests rather than being tied to the kitchen.

Scaling Up the Recipe

Scaling up your fondue for larger gatherings is straightforward. Simply double or triple the amounts of cheese and wine while keeping the ratios consistent. However, ensure that your fondue pot is large enough to comfortably hold everything and allow for even heating. If using multiple pots or a larger electric fondue pot, adjust your heat settings accordingly to ensure smooth melting.

It's also beneficial to have extra dipping items on hand as you'll likely have more guests than originally anticipated. Ensure you account for their preferences; providing a balance between hearty options like meats and lighter ones like veggies will keep everyone satisfied.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with cheeses like Fontina or Raclette for different flavors.

→ What kind of wine is best for fondue?

A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, works best for complementing the cheese.

→ How do I prevent the cheese from becoming too thick?

Stir in a bit more wine or lemon juice if the fondue thickens too much during serving.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.