Fondue with Gruyere and Nutmeg

Name: Fondue with Gruyere and Nutmeg
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyere cheese, grated; 100g Emmental cheese, grated; 200ml dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tsp cornstarch; 1/2 tsp freshly grated nutmeg; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Crusty bread, cut into cubes for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Fondue with Gruyere and Nutmeg for a cozy night in or as an entertaining dish for guests. The rich, nutty flavor of Gruyere combined with the warm hints of nutmeg creates an irresistible combination. As I dip fresh bread into the silky melted cheese, I'm reminded of fond memories shared with friends and family. This dish is incredibly simple yet elegant, making it a go-to for any occasion that calls for comfort food and indulgent flavors.

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:52:06.435Z

When I first tried making cheese fondue, I was amazed by how simple the process could be while still delivering a luxurious outcome. In this recipe, I focus on high-quality Gruyere cheese, which has a delightful complexity that shines through the dish. The addition of nutmeg not only adds warmth but elevates the entire experience, turning a classic dish into something memorable.

I recommend using day-old bread for the best texture when dipping. It holds up beautifully in the cheese, allowing every bite to be a flavorful experience. Remember to stir the cheese gently to keep it smooth and creamy!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The nutty complexity of Gruyere pairs perfectly with a hint of nutmeg.
Simple preparation yields a beautiful, elegant dish.
Ideal for sharing with friends and family during gatherings.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this fondue is undoubtedly the Gruyere cheese. Its nutty flavor deepens during the melting process, creating a rich and complex taste. The Emmental cheese complements Gruyere with its mild, slightly sweet profile and creamy texture. This combination balances richness with a hint of brightness, making it ideal for fondue. Don't hesitate to experiment with a mix of cheeses, such as adding aged cheddar for a sharper kick or some Gouda for an unexpected twist.

Using a dry white wine is crucial in this recipe, as it influences the flavor and texture of the fondue. A wine that is too sweet may overpower the dish, while a well-balanced dry wine enhances the nutty flavors of the cheese. Look for a wine with good acidity, like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a mix of vegetable broth and a splash of lemon juice can mimic the acidity and keep your fondue delicious.

Perfecting Your Technique

When melting the cheese, maintain a gentle, low-medium heat. This ensures the cheese melts evenly without becoming grainy, as high heat can cause it to separate. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until the cheese is smooth and glossy. If the fondue does become too thick, adding a little more wine or broth can achieve the desired consistency without losing flavor.

Don't overlook the importance of thickening the fondue with cornstarch. This ingredient binds the melted cheese and prevents separation, resulting in a creamy texture. Mixing the cornstarch with some cold wine before adding it to the cheese helps avoid clumping. Once added, continue to cook for a few more minutes until the mixture gets slightly thicker and sticks to your dipping implements. Keep this fondue warm over a low flame while you enjoy it; if it begins to cool too much, it may thicken further.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful cheese fondue.

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyere cheese, grated
100g Emmental cheese, grated
200ml dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tsp cornstarch
1/2 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Crusty bread, cut into cubes for dipping

You can also add vegetables or fruits for dipping, giving a fun twist!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to prepare your fondue.

Prep the Pot

Rub the inside of your fondue pot with the halved garlic clove for flavor. Discard the garlic once done.

Melt the Cheese

In the pot, combine the grated Gruyere and Emmental cheese with dry white wine. Heat gently over low-medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent the cheese from clumping.

Thicken the Fondue

Once the cheese is melted, mix the cornstarch with a splash of white wine to create a slurry. Stir this into the cheese mix along with the nutmeg and black pepper, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the pot to a small flame source to keep warm. Enjoy dipping crusty bread and your choice of dippables into the creamy cheese!

Remember to keep the flame low to maintain the fondue's smooth texture.

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding a splash of Kirsch (cherry brandy) to the mix for an authentic Swiss flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your fondue with a variety of dippables to keep your guests entertained. Crusty bread is classic, but don’t stop there! Consider adding fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli, sliced apples, or even cooked potatoes. Each brings a different flavor and texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese, making each bite a delightful experience.

For an upscale touch, consider offering a selection of cured meats, such as prosciutto or salami, alongside your fondue. The saltiness of the meats enhances the cheese's richness and provides a satisfying contrast to the smooth texture. Arrange everything beautifully on a platter to create an inviting centerpiece for your gathering.

Make-Ahead Tips

Fondue is not only a delicious treat, but it can also be prepared in advance, making it perfect for entertaining. You can grate the cheeses and store them in the refrigerator a day ahead; make sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent drying. Prepare the cheese mixture and keep it in the fondue pot until you are ready to heat it up. Just remember to gently warm it and stir until fully melted before serving.

If you do happen to have leftover fondue, don't worry! You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, slowly warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of wine or broth to restore its creaminess. This makes for a wonderful second meal, perhaps served over pasta or used as a rich sauce for vegetables.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cheeses?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Fontina or Gouda.

→ What type of bread is best for dipping?

A rustic, crusty bread like a baguette or sourdough works best for fondue.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

You can refrigerate leftover fondue, but reheating may result in a thicker texture; just add a bit of wine to smooth it out.

→ Is fondue a good dish for parties?

Absolutely! Fondue is interactive and fun, perfect for gatherings where guests can dip and enjoy together.