Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Kirsch

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Kirsch
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons kirsch; 1 clove garlic, halved; Cornstarch for thickening; Fresh crusty bread, cut into cubes

Highlighted under: International Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love making fondue with Swiss cheese and kirsch. The rich, gooey texture coupled with the unique flavor of kirsch transforms any gathering into a special occasion. It’s amazing how simple ingredients can create such luxurious comfort food. This dish has become a winter staple in my home. When the cold weather sets in, I gather friends around the table to dip fresh bread into cheese, and it always brings joy and warmth to our evenings.

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:28:10.781Z

When I first tried making fondue at home, I was stunned by the depth of flavor that high-quality Swiss cheese brings, especially when paired with kirsch. This cherry brandy not only adds a unique sweetness but also helps to create that wonderfully smooth texture that's so essential for a great fondue. One tip I've learned is to use a mix of cheeses—like Gruyère and Emmental—because it enhances the complexity of the taste.

During one memorable winter gathering, I discovered that adding garlic to the pot before the cheese melted made a world of difference. Its fragrant warmth infused the cheese and made each dip even more delightful. I encourage you to experiment with your favorite dippers—crusty bread, vegetables, or even apples—and enjoy the experience together!

Why You Will Love This Fondue
Creamy, melted Swiss cheese that’s perfect for dipping
The unique kick of kirsch balances the richness
A fun, interactive dish perfect for sharing with friends and family

Understanding the Cheeses

The combination of Gruyère and Emmental cheeses is crucial for achieving that perfect fondue consistency. Gruyère brings a nutty, slightly sweet flavor, while Emmental adds a mild, creamy taste that balances beautifully. I recommend using high-quality cheeses for the best melting properties. If you're in a pinch, Jarlsberg can be used as a substitute for Emmental, but it lacks some of the depth that traditional Swiss cheeses provide.

Grating the cheese beforehand is essential. The smaller pieces melt more uniformly, avoiding clumps that can occur if you add large chunks. If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with a third cheese, such as Fontina, for added creaminess, but keep in mind that the proportions may need adjusting to maintain the right texture.

Perfecting Your Fondue Technique

When combining the cheese and wine, always stir continuously to prevent the cheese from scorching. Scorching can lead to a grainy texture, which is not desirable in fondue. The right heat level is medium; this allows the wine to gently bubble without boiling, which can break down the cheese too quickly. Look for a smooth, glossy mixture, which indicates that the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.

If you find your fondue too thick after adding kirsch, this can happen if the cheese isn't melted evenly. Simply mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the cheese until you reach your desired consistency. This method not only thins the fondue but also enhances its creaminess.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Fondue

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons kirsch
1 clove garlic, halved
Cornstarch for thickening
Fresh crusty bread, cut into cubes

Prepare Your Ingredients

Instructions

How to Make Fondue

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic cloves for flavor, then discard the garlic.

Combine Wine and Cheese

Pour the white wine into the pot and heat on medium until it begins to bubble. Gradually add the grated cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Add Kirsch and Serve

Once the cheese is fully melted, mix in the kirsch. If the mixture is too thick, blend a little cornstarch mixed with water to achieve desired consistency. Serve immediately with bread cubes.

Enjoy Your Fondue!

Pro Tips

For the best results, use a sturdy bread like baguette that can hold up to dipping. Alternatively, feel free to include blanched vegetables or fruits for a light twist.

Serving Suggestions

While crusty bread is a classic option for dipping, don’t hesitate to get creative! Vegetables like blanched broccoli, bell peppers, and cauliflower make excellent dippers, adding a fresh contrast to the rich cheese. For a gluten-free version, you can use gluten-free bread or even cooked, crispy potatoes for a delicious twist.

Pairing your fondue with a nice dry white wine or a light beer can enhance the flavors further. Additionally, consider providing a small selection of charcuterie, such as cured meats or pickles, allowing guests to customize their fondue experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to prepare in advance, you can grate the cheeses and store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to three days. Keep the mixture of wine and kirsch separately and combine them when you're ready to heat it all together. This makes your preparation smoother and less stressful at serving time.

If you have leftover fondue, you can store it in an airtight container for up to two days in the fridge. Reheat it gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of white wine or milk to help regain its creamy texture. However, avoid reheating it in the microwave, as this can lead to uneven heating and a rubbery texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses, but for traditional fondue, Gruyère and Emmental are recommended for their melting properties.

→ What should I dip apart from bread?

Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflowers, or even fruits like apple slices work great with cheese fondue.

→ Is it possible to make this fondue without alcohol?

You can substitute the wine with a non-alcoholic wine or vegetable broth, but the flavor profile may change.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving again.