Fondue with Mild Blue Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Mild Blue Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g mild blue cheese, crumbled; 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 clove garlic, halved; 200ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Fresh vegetables and bread for dipping

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love making Fondue with Mild Blue Cheese and Garlic for gatherings with friends and family. The creamy texture, combined with the subtle tang of blue cheese, creates a delightful combination that everyone enjoys. It's a feast for the senses! We often pair it with fresh vegetables and crusty bread, making it a fun and interactive dish. This fondue is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, ensuring that my focus remains on enjoying time with my loved ones.

Created by

Linnea Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:49:34.336Z

When I first experimented with this Fondue recipe, I wasn't sure how the mild blue cheese would blend with the garlic. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome! The gentle flavors balance beautifully, creating a rich and unique flavor profile that invites everyone to dive in. A tip I've learned is to ensure that the cheese is at room temperature before melting, as it incorporates easily without clumping.

As I've made this fondue several times, I've honed in on the best dippers. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and carrots, along with slices of rustic bread, provide the perfect contrast to the creamy goodness of the cheese. There's something so heartwarming about sharing a pot of fondue around the table and watching everyone savor the moment together.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
Subtle blue cheese flavor complemented by aromatic garlic
Perfect for sharing, making it a social culinary experience

      

Choosing Your Cheeses

The choice of cheese is crucial for achieving the ideal fondue texture and flavor. Mild blue cheese adds a creamy richness and a gentle tang that isn't overpowering, while Gruyère contributes a nutty and slightly sweet depth. For variations, you might consider substituting the Gruyère with another melting cheese like fontina or Emmental, keeping in mind that each will affect the overall flavor profile. Aim for a balanced combination to satisfy both blue cheese lovers and those new to its flavor.

When mixing the cheeses with cornstarch before melting, you're not just preventing clumping; you're also ensuring a smoother consistency. The cornstarch absorbs moisture and fat, helping to achieve that luxurious creaminess that fondue is known for. It's a small step that significantly elevates your fondue experience.

The Importance of Temperature

Maintaining the right temperature is vital to a successful fondue. Heating the wine over low to medium heat is key; too high a temperature can cause the cheese to seize up or become grainy instead of smooth. You want to see gentle bubbles forming around the edges of the pot without reaching a rolling boil. This controlled heating allows the cheese to melt gradually, blending perfectly with the wine.

After combining the cheese mixture with the hot wine, continue to stir constantly. This not only promotes even melting but also prevents the cheese from sticking to the bottom of the pot, which could result in burnt cheese. If the fondue ever seems too thick, a splash of warm wine can help restore that creamy consistency.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

For a delightful fondue experience, consider the array of items you can serve for dipping. Fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli florets not only add color but also a crisp texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy dip. Additionally, crusty bread is a traditional choice; aim for a country or sourdough loaf for the best flavor and texture to hold up under the fondue.

If you want to elevate your fondue presentation, think about garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat. You could also offer a selection of cured meats like prosciutto or salami, giving your guests a variety of taste experiences that play beautifully with the rich flavors of the fondue.

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

200g mild blue cheese, crumbled
200g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
200ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh vegetables and bread for dipping

Gather all your ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Pot

Rub the halved garlic clove around the inside of a fondue pot to impart a light garlic flavor.

Combine Cheeses

In a bowl, mix the crumbled blue cheese and grated Gruyère with cornstarch to help prevent clumping.

Heat the Wine

Pour white wine into the fondue pot and heat over low-medium heat until hot but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the hot wine, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Add Lemon Juice

Stir in the lemon juice and mix well for a creamy consistency.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately with fresh vegetables and bread for dipping. Enjoy your delicious fondue!

Make sure to keep the mixture warm while serving to enjoy the best texture!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy or a sprinkle of fresh herbs into the cheese mixture while melting.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover fondue, it's important to store it properly to maintain its quality. Allow the fondue to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can typically be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, a double boiler works best as it distributes heat evenly and prevents the cheese from becoming grainy. Stir continuously until heated through.

While you can go back to basic flavors when reheating, consider adding a bit more wine or a splash of milk to help regain that creamy texture. Avoid using a microwave if possible since it tends to heat unevenly, risking a lumpy fondue.

Make-Ahead Tips

For those planning a gathering, you can prepare aspects of your fondue in advance for a more relaxed experience. The cheese mixture can be combined with cornstarch and stored in the refrigerator up to a day before serving. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before melting; this helps reduce the chances of the cheese seizing up during cooking.

You can also prepare your dipping items in advance. Pre-cut vegetables and proteins can be stored in sealed containers. For bread, ensure it’s sliced thickly, which will hold the fondue better, and keep it in a bread bag to maintain freshness until it's time to serve.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fondue is too thick, adding a bit more warm wine can create a creamier consistency. If it seems too thin, try adding a sprinkle of additional cheese or a touch more cornstarch mixed in with a little wine to thicken it up nicely. Excessive stirring or high heat can lead to graininess, so if this happens, remove the pot from heat and whisk vigorously for a few seconds to try and smooth it out.

Should you find the mixture separating, it might be that the cheese is not melted evenly. In this case, returning the fondue to low heat while stirring can often bring it back together. Patience is key, as slowing down the process usually yields the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While blue cheese and Gruyère are recommended, feel free to experiment with your favorites like cheddar or fontina.

→ What can I use for dipping?

Great options for dipping include cubed bread, steamed vegetables, and even fruits like apple slices.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Leftover fondue can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can I make this fondue vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives and use plant-based milk or broth instead of wine.