Fondue with Smoked Gouda Blend

Name: Fondue with Smoked Gouda Blend
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Smoked Gouda cheese, grated; 100g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Dippers: crusty bread, assorted vegetables, apple slices

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Collection

I absolutely love hosting gatherings, and this Fondue with Smoked Gouda Blend has become a staple at our events. It’s rich and creamy, with just the right amount of smokiness that elevates the entire experience. The best part is how customizable it is; you can mix in your favorite herbs or even a splash of wine to suit your taste. Whether it's a cozy night in or a festive celebration, this fondue is sure to impress everyone while bringing them together around the pot!

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:54:38.647Z

When I first made this fondue, I was surprised by how quickly it came together. The creamy texture of the Smoked Gouda melts beautifully, and combining it with a hint of garlic truly brings out its flavor. My friends were practically licking the pot clean! I learned that using a double boiler helps avoid any scorching, ensuring a smooth consistency.

Each time I prepare it, I enjoy experimenting with different dippers—from crusty bread to crisp veggies—each bringing a unique twist. The key to a perfect fondue lies in the quality of cheese and ensuring it’s kept at the right temperature while serving.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, smoky flavor that tantalizes your taste buds
Creamy texture that creates a delightful dipping experience
Great for entertaining friends and family

      

The Art of Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheeses is crucial for your fondue's flavor profile. Smoked Gouda brings a distinct smokiness that's enhanced by the nutty, creamy Gruyère. If you want to experiment, other cheeses like Fontina or aged cheddar can work well too, but they will alter the flavor balance. For a stronger taste, consider mixing in a bit of blue cheese for a bold twist.

Always use high-quality cheese as it melts better and provides a richer flavor. If fresh cheese is unavailable, opt for pre-grated cheese, but check the packaging for anti-caking agents, which can affect melting. Aim for a total of about 300g of cheese combined for optimal creaminess.

Perfecting the Melting Process

Using medium heat is essential when melting cheese; too high and the cheese can become grainy. Stir continuously to ensure even melting, and keep an eye on the wine mixture. It should be at a gentle simmer—look for tiny bubbles forming around the edges. A double boiler can help maintain steady heat, reducing the risk of scorching your mixture.

If you notice your fondue is too thick, add a splash more wine to adjust the texture. Conversely, if it’s too runny, a bit more grated cheese mixed with cornstarch can help thicken it back up. Just remember to add the cheese gradually and stir until fully incorporated for the best results.

Dippers and Pairing Suggestions

While I love classic crusty bread, the range of dippers can truly elevate your fondue experience. Assorted vegetables like blanched broccoli, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes provide freshness and a nice crunch. For a sweet contrast, apple slices work wonders—especially if they’re slightly tart, balancing the richness of the cheese.

Consider pairing your fondue with a refreshing salad or light charcuterie board for diversity. For drinks, stick with that dry white wine or a light beer, which complements the smoky cheese beautifully. Ensure your dippers are cut into bite-sized pieces for easy dipping—about 1-inch cubes for bread or 2-inch sections for veggies work well.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a fantastic fondue experience:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Smoked Gouda cheese, grated
100g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Dippers: crusty bread, assorted vegetables, apple slices

Make sure to have enough dippers on hand for endless enjoyment!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, mix the grated Smoked Gouda and Gruyère with cornstarch to prevent clumping.

Heat the Wine

In a saucepan or double boiler, bring the white wine and minced garlic to a simmer over medium heat.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture into the simmering wine, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Add Seasoning

Stir in the lemon juice and season with black pepper to taste. Make sure the mixture remains smooth and creamy.

Serve

Transfer the fondue pot to a heat source, and serve with your choice of dippers.

Enjoy your fondue with friends and family, and don't forget to keep the pot warm!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of your favorite brandy or a dash of herbs to the cheese mixture.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover fondue, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the fondue in a double boiler over low heat, adding a touch more wine or a splash of milk to help regain its creamy consistency. Stir often to prevent sticking or burning.

For a longer shelf life, you can freeze leftover fondue. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly, so it's best to use it in cooked dishes like pasta or baked casseroles rather than re-heating for dipping.

Creative Variations

Feel free to customize your fondue with various flavors. Adding a splash of brandy or flavored oils can transform the taste, while herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the aroma. Just be sure to introduce these flavors in moderation, so they don’t overpower the core cheese flavors.

For an extra kick, try incorporating spices like smoked paprika or a hint of chili powder. Mixing in some sun-dried tomatoes or caramelized onions can also give your fondue an exciting twist, creating a unique experience suitable for any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ What type of cheese works best for fondue?

A combination of Smoked Gouda and Gruyère works wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses!

→ Can I make fondue ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance. Simply reheat gently on the stove before serving.

→ What can I use as dippers?

Good options include crusty bread, steamed vegetables, and sliced fruits like apples or pears.

→ Is fondue gluten-free?

The cheese and wine used are typically gluten-free, but check that your dippers are gluten-free if you need to avoid gluten.