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, shredded; 200g Emmental cheese, shredded; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 3 cloves garlic, minced and caramelized; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Crusty bread, cut into cubes (for dipping); Fresh vegetables (for dipping)

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Ideas

I always enjoyed fondue during celebrations, but it wasn't until I added caramelized garlic that my taste buds truly lit up. The sweet, nutty flavor from the garlic adds a unique twist to the creamy melted cheese, transforming a classic dish into an unforgettable delight. I love serving this fondue with crusty bread and crispy vegetables for a perfect dipping experience. This recipe is not only simple but creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that draws everyone around the table, making it perfect for gatherings.

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:43:34.766Z

Making fondue with caramelized garlic has truly become my signature dish. I remember the first time I tried it; the sweetness of the garlic perfectly complemented the rich, gooey cheese. The trick is to cook the garlic slowly, allowing it to caramelize without burning, which enhances its natural sweetness. It’s a game changer!

Another tip I've found is to use a blend of cheeses, such as Gruyère and Emmental, for a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the garlic. Each time I serve this fondue, I’m reminded of how simple ingredients can elevate a gathering into a memorable event.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadently creamy cheese with an unexpected kick from caramelized garlic
The perfect dish to bring everyone together for a fun dining experience
Easy to make, ideal for both casual and special occasions

      

The Role of Cheese in Fondue

The choice of cheese is crucial for creating the perfect fondue. Gruyère and Emmental are traditional choices, known for their meltability and rich flavors. Gruyère brings nuttiness and depth, while Emmental adds a mild sweetness. When combined, they create a harmonious blend that is both creamy and flavorful. To ensure the best texture, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melting process.

To enhance creaminess, consider adding a small amount of aged cheddar or fontina. These cheeses melt beautifully and can add complexity to the flavor profile. Always remember to toss the cheese with cornstarch before melting; this method not only thickens the fondue but also minimizes the chance of the cheese clumping together, resulting in a smooth, silky texture that coats the bread and vegetables perfectly.

Perfecting Caramelized Garlic

Caramelizing garlic transforms its sharpness into a deep, sweet flavor that beautifully complements the richness of fondue. To achieve perfect caramelized garlic, use low heat and a non-stick pan to avoid burning. Stir frequently for about 10-15 minutes, until the garlic turns golden brown and becomes soft. If you notice it browning too quickly, reduce the heat to ensure a gradual caramelization, which brings out the garlic's natural sweetness without bitterness.

If you're short on time, you can roast the garlic in the oven instead. Wrap whole cloves in foil with a bit of olive oil, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes or until soft. This method yields a sweet and creamy garlic flavor that blends seamlessly into the fondue. Either way, caramelized garlic elevates the dish, making it not just a traditional fondue, but a truly memorable experience.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

For a truly delightful fondue experience, consider pairing your caramelized garlic fondue with not just traditional crusty bread, but also a variety of dippables. Fresh vegetables such as blanched broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini add a crisp texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese. You can even try dipping fruits like apples or pears, which offer a surprising sweetness that balances the savory fondue beautifully.

If you’re looking to amp up the flavor, sprinkled herbs, such as fresh thyme or chives, over the finished fondue not only enhance visual appeal but also complement the garlic and cheese. Additionally, consider serving a side of tangy pickles or olives to cut through the richness. These combinations create a more diverse tasting experience and ensure that every bite is interesting and delectable.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, shredded
200g Emmental cheese, shredded
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons cornstarch
3 cloves garlic, minced and caramelized
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Crusty bread, cut into cubes (for dipping)
Fresh vegetables (for dipping)

Make sure to have your favorite dips ready to enhance the flavors!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your fondue:

Caramelize the Garlic

In a small pan, heat some olive oil over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook slowly, stirring frequently until golden brown and caramelized. Set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded Gruyère and Emmental cheese with cornstarch. This helps to thicken the fondue and prevents clumping.

Heat the Wine

In a fondue pot, heat the white wine over medium heat until it simmers. Gradually add the cheese mixture, stirring continuously until melted.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the caramelized garlic and lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. Keep the fondue warm over low heat.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve with crusty bread and assorted vegetables for dipping. Enjoy the cozy, communal experience!

Don't forget to enjoy your fondue while it's warm and creamy!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, try adding some herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor of your fondue.

Make-Ahead Tips

For a stress-free gathering, you can prepare the caramelized garlic and cheese mixture ahead of time. Once the garlic is caramelized, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat it before combining with the wine and cheese mixture. This method saves time and allows you to enjoy more moments with your guests.

You can also prepare your dippables in advance. Cut the bread and vegetables a few hours before serving and store them in a sealed container to maintain their freshness. This way, all you have to do is heat the fondue before your guests arrive, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your gathering.

Troubleshooting Fondue

If your fondue ends up too thick, you can easily fix it by adding more warm white wine, a tablespoon at a time, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it's too thin, a quick solution is to sprinkle in a little more cornstarch mixed with a splash of white wine; this will help thicken it without altering the flavor significantly.

Another common issue is the cheese separating and becoming greasy. To prevent this, ensure you are using low to medium heat while melting the cheese and avoid boiling the mixture. Gradual heating keeps the cheese emulsified and smooth. If separation does occur, you can whisk in a little lemon juice or more cornstarch to bring it back together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations to find your favorite flavor!

→ What can I substitute for dry white wine?

You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as a substitute, although it may change the flavor slightly.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently over low heat, adding a small amount of wine to recreate the creamy texture.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free bread and ensure that the other ingredients are also gluten-free.