Fondue with Smoked Gouda Blend

Name: Fondue with Smoked Gouda Blend
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g smoked Gouda cheese, grated; 100g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Fresh veggies (broccoli, carrots) and bread for dipping

Highlighted under: Global World Food Favorites

I adore fondue, especially when it's a special occasion. This Fondue with Smoked Gouda Blend is my go-to recipe for cozy evenings with friends or a romantic dinner at home. The combination of rich, smoky gouda and a hint of white wine creates an indulgent dipping experience that elevates every bite. Served with a selection of fresh vegetables and crunchy bread, it's hard not to fall in love with the melted goodness. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll understand why it's the highlight of our gatherings!

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:20:37.357Z

When I first ventured into making fondue at home, I was surprised at how simple it could be. This Smoked Gouda blend quickly became a crowd favorite during gatherings. I experimented with different cheeses, but the smokiness of Gouda brings such a unique depth of flavor that I couldn't look back. It melts beautifully and pairs perfectly with the wines.

One of my best tips is to keep stirring the cheese continuously as it melts. This ensures a creamy, smooth consistency and prevents any clumping or burning on the bottom of the pot. I also love serving it with some homemade garlic bread for that extra kick!

Why You'll Love This Fondue
Smoky flavor that impresses every guest
Luxurious and creamy texture that's irresistible
Perfect for gatherings or cozy date nights

Elevating the Flavor

The combination of smoked Gouda and Emmental cheese provides a unique depth of flavor. Smoked Gouda brings a rich, nutty taste with a hint of woodiness, while Emmental contributes a slight sweetness and helps create that luxurious texture. When melting the cheeses, it's important to continuously stir; this not only encourages a smooth consistency but also prevents the cheese from clumping together. If your fondue becomes too thick, simply stir in a small amount of additional wine to achieve your desired consistency.

Another key flavor element is the white wine used in this recipe. A dry white wine is ideal as it balances the richness of the cheeses and prevents the fondue from becoming overly heavy. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, consider a mix of vegetable broth and a splash of lemon juice as a replacement. The acidity in the lemon juice mimics the brightness of wine, ensuring your fondue maintains its fresh flavor.

Dipping Options Galore

While fresh vegetables and bread are classic accompaniments for your fondue, consider expanding your dipping options for an exciting twist. Thinly sliced apples, pears, or even roasted potatoes can provide contrasting textures and flavors that enhance the experience. Additionally, try using a variety of breads—artisanal loaves, baguettes, or even pre-seasoned pita chips can add delightful crunch and flavor to the fondue indulgence. Just be careful not to overload your fork, as too much could lead to difficulty with melting.

For those looking to accommodate dietary preferences, gluten-free bread options are widely available and can easily be incorporated. Also, if you want to make the fondue heartier, I love adding cooked sausage or marinated tofu for protein. These additions can help transform the fondue from a starter to a full meal while maintaining the comforting vibes of this classic dish.

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

200g smoked Gouda cheese, grated
100g Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Fresh veggies (broccoli, carrots) and bread for dipping

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, mix the grated smoked Gouda with the grated Emmental and cornstarch. This helps to prevent clumping.

Heat the Wine

In a fondue pot, add the white wine, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Heat over medium-low until warm but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the warm wine, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Serve Warm

Keep the fondue warm over a low flame and enjoy with your choice of fresh veggies and bread for dipping.

Pro Tips

For a more complex flavor, try adding a splash of brandy or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the cheese mixture.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning a gathering, you can prepare the cheese mixture a few hours in advance. Simply combine the grated cheeses and cornstarch and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time on the day of your event but also helps enhance the flavors as the cheeses meld together. When you’re ready to make the fondue, just give the cheese a quick stir before adding it to the warmed wine.

The fondue itself is best enjoyed fresh, but if you find yourself with leftovers, store them in a covered container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning, and add a splash of wine or broth to revive the texture. Just be cautious not to overheat, as it can cause separation and a less creamy finish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, cheese fondues can become grainy or separate. If you encounter a grainy texture, it’s likely due to overheating the cheese. In this case, lower the heat and keep stirring—adding a little wine can sometimes help to smooth it out again. If separation occurs, try whisking in an additional cornstarch slurry (a mix of cold water and cornstarch). This can bring it back together and restore that creamy, harmonious consistency.

Another issue to watch out for is if the fondue thickens too much as it cools. To fix this, simply return it to gentle heat, stirring in a bit more liquid until you reach your desired consistency. Always make sure to serve fondue warm and keep an eye on it throughout your gathering to maintain that gooey, cheese-laden experience everyone loves.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

→ How do I prevent the cheese from hardening?

Make sure to keep the fondue warm on a low flame and stir occasionally to maintain its melting consistency.

→ What can I dip besides bread and vegetables?

Fruits like apple slices or even cooked potatoes work surprisingly well with cheese fondue!

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you choose gluten-free bread or vegetables, this fondue can easily be made gluten-free.