Fondue with Fontina and Black Pepper

Name: Fondue with Fontina and Black Pepper
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g Fontina cheese, grated; 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 cloves garlic, halved; 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Bread, vegetables, and fruits for dipping

Highlighted under: Modern Planning

I absolutely adore making fondue at home, and this recipe for Fondue with Fontina and Black Pepper is a favorite. The rich, gooey texture and the depth of flavor from the black pepper elevate the classic dish to something truly special. We love pairing it with crusty bread, fresh vegetables, and even some juicy fruits. It's perfect for cozy gatherings or as a fun date night option. Trust me, this fondue will quickly become a go-to recipe for any cheese lover looking for a warm, comforting treat.

Created by

Briar Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:01:36.066Z

When I first attempted making fondue, I was worried it wouldn't turn out right. However, after experimenting with different cheeses, Fontina quickly became my favorite. Melting perfectly with a creamy consistency, it creates an indulgent base for the addition of black pepper. The key is to incorporate the cheese gradually, stirring constantly to avoid clumping. This method ensures a smooth, velvety texture that clings beautifully to whatever you choose to dip!

Another tip I've found is to serve the fondue with a variety of dippers to enhance the experience. While crusty bread is traditional, I love adding blanched broccoli and apple slices. The contrast of flavors from sweet to savory really brings out the richness of the cheese. Don't forget to keep the fondue warm!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadently creamy texture perfect for dipping
The subtle heat of black pepper adds a delightful twist
Great for sharing and enjoying with friends or family

      

The Importance of Cheese Selection

For this fondue recipe, the choice of cheese is crucial. Fontina and Gruyère provide a rich creaminess and a well-rounded flavor profile, making them ideal for melting. Fontina is known for its nutty and earthy notes, whereas Gruyère adds a hint of sweetness. If you're looking for alternatives, you can substitute Emmental or a good quality mozzarella, but be sure to adjust the quantities to maintain the desired gooey texture.

When selecting your cheeses, always choose high-quality, freshly grated options. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melt quality. Grating your own cheese not only ensures a smoother melt but also enhances the flavor. For the best results, consider using a box grater or food processor to get the cheese into fine, uniform shreds.

Perfecting Your Fondue Technique

A successful fondue relies on a few key techniques. When warming the wine, maintain a medium heat so it reaches a gentle simmer; boiling the wine can cause it to evaporate too quickly, leaving you with a concentrated, less flavorful base. Use a wooden spoon for stirring as it allows you to control the texture and ensures even incorporation of the cheese.

As you add the cheese to the wine, do so gradually, allowing each addition to melt fully before adding more. This step prevents clumping and promotes a silky, cohesive mixture. If your fondue becomes too thick, you can easily whisk in a bit more wine or a splash of broth until reaching your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious fondue.

Fondue Ingredients

400g Fontina cheese, grated
200g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
2 cloves garlic, halved
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
Bread, vegetables, and fruits for dipping

Make sure to have a selection of dippers ready to enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect fondue experience.

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, mix the grated Fontina and Gruyère cheese with the cornstarch. This will help the cheese melt smoothly.

Make the Base

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic cloves. Pour in the white wine and heat over medium flame until simmering.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering wine, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Add Seasoning

Stir in the black pepper and lemon juice for added flavor. Keep the fondue warm on low heat.

Serve and Enjoy

Set the pot on the table and serve with an array of dippers for a fun and interactive eating experience.

Enjoy your delicious cheese fondue with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an even deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy to your cheese mixture before melting. This will impart a wonderful richness to your fondue.

Dipping Options

While crusty bread is a classic dipper of choice, consider branching out with options like blanched broccoli, tart apple slices, or even roasted potatoes. Each of these brings a different texture and taste that complements the rich cheese. I particularly enjoy the contrast of sweet figs or grapes, which balance the savory notes beautifully.

Make sure to cut your dippers into bite-sized portions to ensure an easy dipping experience. For bread, consider using a rustic sourdough or baguette, sliced into thick pieces. If you're going with vegetables, blanch them for a few minutes to soften slightly, which enhances their flavor and makes them easier to dip.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover fondue, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating requires some technique; simply place the fondue in a saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently to ensure even warming and to prevent the cheese from separating. You may need to add a splash of wine or broth to restore its creamy texture.

It's generally not recommended to freeze fondue, as the cheese can separate or become grainy upon thawing. If you want to prepare ahead, consider prepping the cheese mix and separating the wine portion to make the assembly quicker on the day of serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute with cheeses like Emmental or mozzarella, but the flavor and texture may differ.

→ What can I dip in fondue?

Traditional dippers include crusty bread, but you can also use vegetables like broccoli, and even fruits like apples or pears.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Is fondue gluten-free?

The fondue itself is gluten-free, but ensure that your dippers, like bread, are made with gluten-free ingredients.