Fondue with Brie and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Brie and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Brie cheese, cut into pieces; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Fresh bread cubes (for dipping); Fresh vegetables (optional, for dipping)

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Favorites

I adore cozy evenings with friends and family, and there's nothing quite like sharing a delicious fondue experience. This Fondue with Brie and Garlic is a crowd-pleaser that combines the creamy richness of Brie with the aromatic allure of garlic. Just picturing the bubbling pot filled with melting cheese makes my mouth water! It’s perfect for dipping anything from fresh bread to crunchy vegetables, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Join me in whipping up this indulgent treat that brings everyone together around the table.

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T07:27:36.904Z

When I first made this fondue, I didn’t realize how much a couple of cloves of garlic could elevate the dish. The combination of Brie cheese melting into a creamy texture, intertwined with the garlic's subtle depth, created an unforgettable flavor. I remember watching everyone’s eyes light up the moment they took their first dip!

This fondue is not just for special occasions; it’s a great way to turn an ordinary evening into a memorable gathering. Pair this dish with a crisp white wine for an exquisite taste experience, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different dippers like roasted vegetables or apple slices.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The luxurious creaminess of melted Brie enhances any gathering.
Elegant yet easy to make, it's perfect for casual gatherings or date nights.
The infusion of garlic adds a warm, inviting aroma that draws everyone in.

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of cheese is crucial in this fondue recipe. Brie offers a velvety texture and rich flavor that sets the foundation for a luxurious dipping experience. When selecting Brie, look for a wheel that is slightly soft to the touch; a perfectly ripe Brie will have a creamy interior that's perfect for melting. If you're in the mood for a variation, consider swapping in Camembert for a stronger flavor or Gruyère for a more robust cheese blend.

Garlic isn't just an aromatic addition; it plays a key role in enhancing the Brie’s creaminess. When minced and sautéed lightly in the wine, garlic releases its essential oils and infuses the mixture with depth. For those who prefer a milder flavor, you can roast the garlic ahead of time for a sweeter, less pungent taste that still provides that comforting warmth in your fondue.

Perfecting Your Technique

One of the main tips for successful fondue is to maintain a gentle heat. Overheating the wine can cause it to boil, which may lead to a grainy texture in your melted Brie. Aim for a steady medium heat, stirring consistently to ensure it heats evenly and the cheese maintains a silky consistency. If it seems to thicken too quickly, remove it from the heat briefly and continue stirring to help it loosen.

Incorporating the cornstarch slurry is a vital step in achieving the desired thickness. Cornstarch acts as a binding agent that keeps your fondue velvety and prevents it from separating. Be sure to mix the cornstarch with cool wine first; if added directly to the hot mixture, it can clump. Once you see a glossy finish and it coats the back of a spoon, you've reached the perfect fondue consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While fresh bread is a classic choice for dipping, don't shy away from creativity. Try pairing your fondue with pretzel bites for a salty crunch or a selection of crispy vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing bite. I also love adding seasoned potatoes or even fruit like apple slices for a surprising twist that balances the richness of the cheese.

If you're planning to prepare the fondue ahead of time, store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on low, stirring frequently, to restore its smooth texture. Remember, if it seems too thick after refrigeration, a splash of warm wine can help bring it back to life.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your fondue:

Ingredients for Fondue

200g Brie cheese, cut into pieces
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Fresh bread cubes (for dipping)
Fresh vegetables (optional, for dipping)

Make sure to have plenty of dippers ready for this delicious fondue!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a perfect fondue:

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting the Brie into small pieces and mincing the garlic. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little wine to create a slurry.

Heat the Wine

In a fondue pot or saucepan, heat the dry white wine over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling. Add the lemon juice and minced garlic.

Add the Brie

Gradually add the Brie pieces to the warm wine. Stir constantly as the cheese begins to melt, ensuring a smooth texture.

Combine and Serve

Once the Brie is fully melted and combined with the wine, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the cheese. Serve the fondue immediately with bread cubes and vegetables for dipping.

Make sure to keep the fondue pot warm to enjoy at a leisurely pace!

Pro Tips

For an added hint of flavor, consider including a splash of brandy or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme right before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the fondue becomes too thick while reheating, adding small amounts of warm white wine can help smooth it out. This combination not only restores the desired consistency but also enhances the flavor. Alternatively, if you find that your fondue is too thin, consider mixing a teaspoon of cornstarch with a splash of wine, then gradually whisking it into the fondue while heating over low to help thicken it.

Another common issue is separation, where the cheese and liquid begin to separate, creating an unappealing texture. This typically occurs if the heat is too high or if it's not stirred continuously. If this happens, try to reduce the heat and whisk vigorously. If it’s still not coming together, adding lemon juice can help re-emulsify the mixture because the acidity can help bind the cheese and wine.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This fondue recipe is easily scalable to meet your gathering size. For a more intimate setting, simply halve the ingredients while keeping the same cooking method. If you’re expecting a larger crowd, double or even triple it, making sure you have a sufficiently large fondue pot or saucepan. It’s important to keep in mind the ratio of cheese to liquid will stay relatively constant—about 1 part cheese to 0.5 parts wine ensures the best melting texture.

When scaling up, it may also be beneficial to add more garlic to enhance the flavor, as larger volumes can sometimes dilute the taste. Just remember to taste as you go—a good fondue should be flavorful but balanced with all components clearly present, especially if you adjust the proportions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Brie with other soft cheeses like Camembert or even a mix of Gouda and Gruyère for a different flavor profile.

→ What should I serve with the fondue?

Traditional dippers include bread cubes, but you can also offer fresh vegetables, apple slices, or even cooked meats.

→ How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftover fondue, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be reheated over low heat, adding a splash of wine to regain its creamy texture.

→ Can I make this fondue in advance?

It's best to prepare fondue fresh to preserve the texture, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and assemble it right before serving.