Fondue with Fontina and Black Pepper

Name: Fondue with Fontina and Black Pepper
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Fontina cheese, grated; 100g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp black pepper, freshly cracked; 1 garlic clove, halved; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Vegetables for dipping (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Recipes

I absolutely love hosting gatherings, and nothing creates a cozy atmosphere quite like a bubbling pot of fondue. This Fondue with Fontina and Black Pepper blends rich, creamy cheese with a subtle kick from black pepper, making it a standout dish for any occasion. The smooth texture invites you to dip fresh bread, crunchy vegetables, or even fruits, turning each bite into a delightful experience. It's perfect for a relaxed evening with friends or a special celebration where you want to impress.

Created by

Elowen Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:02:37.166Z

When I first experimented with fondue, I was surprised by how simple yet impressive it could be. By combining Fontina cheese with freshly cracked black pepper, the unique flavor profile elevated this dish beyond my expectations. The key is to slowly melt the cheese on low heat, which prevents clumping and allows for that dreamy, smooth texture we all love.

Another fun detail I discovered is the importance of using a quality dry white wine in the mix. It not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the perfect consistency. Pair that with crusty bread for dipping, and you've got a crowd-pleaser on your hands!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Rich and creamy Fontina cheese with a hint of spice.
Perfect for social gatherings and intimate dinners.
Customizable with various dippables for every taste.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Fontina cheese is the star of this fondue, admired for its meltability and creamy texture. Coupled with Gruyère, you get a balance of flavors—Fontina offers a mild, buttery taste while Gruyère adds a nutty depth. Both cheese varieties melt into a luscious, gooey mixture when heated properly. When choosing your cheeses, opt for high-quality, aged varieties to enhance flavor and texture. Freshness is key, as it directly impacts the fondue's creaminess and overall taste.

The cornstarch plays a crucial role in achieving that velvety consistency that's essential for a perfect fondue. It helps stabilize the melted cheese, preventing it from separating and becoming grainy. If you don't have cornstarch on hand, you could substitute it with arrowroot powder, but reduce the amount slightly. Remember to toss the cheese with the cornstarch before melting it down; this ensures an even blend without clumping.

Techniques for Perfect Fondue

When heating the white wine, do so gently over medium-low heat. You want to achieve a light simmer, not a rolling boil. If the wine boils too vigorously, it can evaporate too quickly, affecting the flavor balance in your fondue. Stirring constantly while adding the cheese helps integrate the ingredients more smoothly. This step is vital; you want to avoid any lumps, which could ruin the fondue experience. Gradually incorporating the cheese, a handful at a time, allows for a more controlled melting process.

For serving, keep your fondue pot over low heat to maintain its warmth, but resist cranking it up too high. A temperature that’s too hot can cause the cheese to burn on the bottom, leading to a less than stellar texture and flavor. I recommend using long forks for dipping to avoid burning your fingers and to elegantly reach into the bubbling pot. Pair your fondue not just with bread; consider pickled vegetables, steamed broccoli, or even apple slices for a refreshing contrast.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Ingredients

200g Fontina cheese, grated
100g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp black pepper, freshly cracked
1 garlic clove, halved
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Vegetables for dipping (optional)

Feel free to mix and match your favorite dippers!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious fondue at home.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove to infuse flavor.

Mix the Cheese

In a bowl, toss the grated Fontina and Gruyère with cornstarch to help stabilize the mixture.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the fondue pot and heat gently over medium-low heat until it starts to simmer.

Add the Cheese

Gradually stir in the cheese mixture, a handful at a time, allowing it to melt fully before adding more.

Finish with Pepper

Once melted and smooth, stir in the freshly cracked black pepper. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Keep the fondue warm and serve with bread cubes and vegetables. Dive in with your fondue forks!

Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, consider adding a splash of brandy or a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftover fondue, it can be refrigerated for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently to return it to a smooth consistency. Adding a splash of white wine or a bit of cream can help coax it back to that velvety texture.

If you need to scale up for a larger gathering, another pot is the easiest solution. Keeping multiple pots will prevent overcrowding and ensure your cheese stays hot and inviting. Just remember, for every additional cheese blend you make, adjust the amount of wine and cornstarch accordingly to maintain the right balance and avoid a grainy texture.

Creative Dipping Alternatives

While crusty bread is a classic choice, think outside the box with your dipping options! Charcuterie items like salami or cured meats add a savory contrast to the rich cheese. For a vegetarian twist, consider grilled asparagus or roasted sweet potatoes, which provide a balance of flavors and textures that can elevate your fondue experience.

Don’t shy away from adding sweet elements like strawberries or chunks of pineapple. The sweetness can create a delightful contrast with the spiciness from the black pepper. Experimenting with different dippables not only keeps things interesting but also allows your guests to curate their own perfect bites, enhancing the overall fondue experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, try mixing in cheeses like Emmental or Gouda for varied flavors.

→ What's the best wine to use?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best.

→ Can I make fondue without alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute the white wine with low-sodium vegetable broth.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently in a fondue pot or saucepan.