Fondue with White Wine and Thyme

Name: Fondue with White Wine and Thyme
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 250ml dry white wine; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Fresh bread, cut into cubes; Blanched vegetables (broccoli, carrots, etc.); Apples or pears, sliced

Highlighted under: Inspired Recipes

I adore hosting gatherings, and Fondue with White Wine and Thyme is my go-to recipe for creating an inviting atmosphere. It’s a delightful blend of rich cheese and aromatic herbs that pairs perfectly with fresh bread and crisp vegetables. The white wine adds a luxurious touch, making it ideal for special occasions or cozy nights with friends. With its simple ingredients and interactive serving style, this fondue brings everyone together, encouraging laughter and conversation around the table. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare, so there's more time for fun!

Created by

Kitty Lawrence

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:57:35.522Z

When I first stumbled upon this fondue recipe, I was immediately drawn to the combination of white wine and thyme. I decided to try it during a cozy dinner party, and the feedback was incredible. The flavor of the thyme blended beautifully with the creamy cheese, creating a dish that was both comforting and elegant.

One tip I learned along the way is to continuously stir the mixture while heating; it prevents the cheese from clumping and ensures a silky, smooth result. This fondue has become a staple at all my gatherings, and it never fails to impress!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, rich cheese flavor enhanced by aromatic thyme
Interactive dining experience that promotes sharing and connection
Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in

      

Understanding the Cheese Blend

The choice of cheese is crucial for a successful fondue. Gruyère and Emmental are traditional Swiss cheeses that melt beautifully, creating a creamy texture. Gruyère offers a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, while Emmental contributes a mild, buttery taste. Together, they enhance the overall depth of the fondue. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with similar cheeses like Fontina or aged cheddar, but be cautious of strong-flavored cheeses as they can overpower the delicate balance.

Another important factor to consider is grating the cheese. Using pre-grated cheese can lead to a grainy texture due to fillers. Instead, opt for block cheese and grate it yourself to maintain a smoother consistency. The size of the grate is also important; use a medium grate for optimal melting, as larger chunks may not blend well.

The Role of Wine and Herbs

The addition of dry white wine not only adds a sophisticated flavor to the fondue but also affects its consistency. The acidity of the wine helps to create a smoother texture, preventing the cheese from becoming stringy. If you need a non-alcoholic option, you can replace white wine with vegetable broth or diluted white grape juice, keeping in mind that this might alter the taste slightly.

Fresh thyme is the star herb in this recipe; its earthy aroma complements the cheeses beautifully. For an added flavor dimension, consider infusing the wine with a few sprigs of thyme while it heats. This step enhances the herbal notes and ensures a more balanced flavor profile. Don't skimp on seasoning—freshly ground black pepper ties the dish together, so season to taste before serving.

Ingredients

For the Fondue

300g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
250ml dry white wine
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Dipping

Fresh bread, cut into cubes
Blanched vegetables (broccoli, carrots, etc.)
Apples or pears, sliced

Instructions

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the cut side of the garlic. Discard the garlic if you prefer a milder flavor.

Mix the Cheeses

In a bowl, toss the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses with cornstarch. This prevents clumping in the fondue.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the fondue pot and heat over medium heat until just simmering.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the pot, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Add thyme leaves and black pepper.

Serve

Serve immediately with fresh bread cubes, blanched vegetables, and fruit slices for dipping.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a splash of brandy or a hint of nutmeg to the cheese mixture. Always use good-quality cheese for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

While fresh bread is a classic dipper, you can get creative with your accompaniments. Consider pairing the fondue with crusty baguette slices, soft pretzels, or even pita chips for a twist. The sweetness of fruits like apples or pears provides a delightful contrast to the rich cheese. A sprinkle of coarse sea salt on the fruits can elevate their flavor even further.

Don't forget to provide dipping skewers or forks to enhance the interactive experience. Keeping the fondue warm is also critical; use a tea light or fondue burner beneath the pot to maintain heat and ensure a delightful, gooey texture throughout your gathering.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can refrigerate the cooled mixture for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring continuously to restore its creamy consistency. If the fondue thickens too much, add a splash of wine or broth to loosen it up again.

To prep ahead of time, you can grate the cheese and mix it with cornstarch a day in advance, storing it in an airtight container. This step saves time during your gathering and prevents clumping, ensuring a smooth melting process when you're ready to cook.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute other melting cheeses like Fontina or Gouda, but the flavor may differ.

→ Is there a non-alcoholic version of this fondue?

You can replace the wine with a combination of vegetable broth and a splash of vinegar for acidity.

→ How can I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Tossing the grated cheese with cornstarch before adding it to the wine helps keep the fondue smooth.

→ What are the best dippers for fondue?

Fresh bread, blanched vegetables, and sliced fruits all work wonderfully with cheese fondue.