Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Nutmeg

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Nutmeg
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Swiss cheese, grated; 100g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tsp freshly grated nutmeg; 2 tsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Fresh bread, cubed, for dipping

Highlighted under: Exotic Treats

When I think of cozy gatherings, fondue instantly comes to mind. I love how this Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Nutmeg combines rich, creamy flavors with just a hint of warmth from the nutmeg. It's not only delicious but also a fun interactive dish that pulls everyone together. I find that the secret lies in meticulously melting the cheese while slowly adding the nutmeg, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Perfect for chilly evenings or festive occasions, this fondue is bound to impress your friends and family.

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:40:11.225Z

I’ve experimented with many fondue recipes, but the addition of nutmeg gives this Swiss cheese classic an incredible depth of flavor. The balance between the creamy texture of the cheese and the warmth of the nutmeg creates a unique taste profile that I can't get enough of. It's surprising how just a pinch can amplify the whole dish!

Pairing this fondue with fresh bread and a variety of dippables takes it to the next level. When I hosted my friends, they loved the interactive aspect of pulling apart bread and sharing their creations. It really made for a memorable evening full of laughter and delight.

Why You'll Love This Fondue
Creamy Swiss cheese that melts beautifully
Subtle hint of nutmeg adding a cozy warmth
Perfect for socializing and sharing with friends

The Importance of Cheese Selection

Choosing high-quality Swiss and Gruyère cheeses is crucial for achieving that perfect melt and flavor in your fondue. These cheeses have the right moisture content and fat composition that create a silky texture when melted. Aim for a 70% Swiss cheese to 30% Gruyère ratio to balance the nutty and creamy aspects. When grating cheese, use the largest holes on your box grater for even melting and to help it incorporate smoothly into the warm wine mixture.

Another tip is to use cheese that is not pre-shredded. Freshly grated cheese contains cornstarch which can hinder melting and cause clumping. If you are in a pinch, consider grating the cheese yourself just before starting to allow for optimal texture when crafting your fondue. Keep the cheese at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using it for the best melting results.

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

As you combine the melted cheese with the simmering white wine, it's essential to stir continuously with a wooden spoon or a silicone spatula to prevent any scorching. Overheating or cooking the cheese too quickly can cause it to become grainy instead of smooth, so keep the heat on medium-low. You want to look for a glossy, thick consistency that can coat the back of a spoon—about 8 to 10 minutes should do the trick.

Incorporating cornstarch with the cheese at the beginning helps to stabilize the fondue and create a creamy texture, preventing it from separating as it heats. If you find that your fondue is too thick, simply add a little more warm wine until you reach your desired consistency. For a unique twist, you can also blend in a splash of brandy or a drizzle of truffle oil for an extra layer of flavor.

Perfect Pairings and Dipping Options

While crusty bread is the classic choice for dipping, think outside the box to elevate your fondue experience. Veggies like blanched broccoli, asparagus, or carrot sticks add a fantastic crunch and freshness. Pretzel bites or even crispy potato cubes can also serve as delightful alternatives. Just be sure to cut your dippables into similar bite-sized pieces for even dunking and to avoid them falling apart in the pot.

If you have leftover fondue, it can be repurposed into a delightful cheese sauce for pasta or a cheesy soup base. Make sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so slowly over low heat while stirring in a splash of additional wine or milk to restore its creamy consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful fondue experience:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Swiss cheese, grated
100g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
2 tsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
Fresh bread, cubed, for dipping

Enjoy your delicious fondue with a selection of dippable items like fresh vegetables and meats!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove. Discard the garlic afterward.

Combine Ingredients

In a separate saucepan, combine the grated cheese with cornstarch and toss to coat. Set aside.

Heat Wine

Pour the dry white wine into the fondue pot and heat over medium-low until simmering.

Melt the Cheese

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

Add Nutmeg and Lemon Juice

Stir in the grated nutmeg and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve

Serve warm with cubed bread and your choice of dippables.

Enjoy your fondue experience together with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, experiment with mixing different types of cheese. Also, serve with a variety of dippables like cooked meats, vegetables, or fruits to enhance the fondue experience.

Serving Suggestions

I recommend setting up a fondue station with various dippables presented in small bowls around the pot. This not only makes it easy for guests to serve themselves but also enhances the overall experience, encouraging them to experiment with combinations. Providing small forks or skewers can also add a fun twist, making the dipping process more enjoyable and interactive.

An added touch can be to include a variety of flavored oils or sauces for seasoning your dippers post-fondue. Garlic oil, herb-infused oils, or even spicy sauces can complement the rich cheese beautifully, allowing your guests to customize their tastes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you end up with leftover fondue, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to three days. When reheating, use a double boiler or microwave in short intervals at low power to avoid separation. Stir frequently and add a little more wine or milk to regain that creamy texture before serving again.

To freeze fondue for future use, place it in a freezer-safe container, making sure to leave some space for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat gradually while stirring to maintain its consistency. Note that freezing may alter the texture slightly, so adjustments might be necessary during reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this fondue without wine?

Yes, you can substitute the wine with vegetable or chicken broth, but the flavor will differ slightly.

→ What types of bread are best for fondue?

Rustic bread like sourdough, baguette, or ciabatta works best as they hold up nicely for dipping.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat slowly to enjoy later.

→ Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

While you can use pre-shredded cheese, it’s best to grate your own since pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting.