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: Serves 4
Ingredients: 200g Fontina cheese, grated; 100g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; Garlic clove, halved (for rubbing); Fresh bread cubes, for dipping

Highlighted under: Soft Kitchen

I absolutely adore making fondue, especially when using Fontina cheese paired with aromatic black pepper. This recipe is not only simple but also incredibly delightful, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for gatherings or simply indulging in comfort food. The rich, creamy texture combined with the sharpness of pepper elevates the classic fondue experience. Gather your favorite dippables, and let's dive into a deliciously cheesy affair that will leave everyone wanting more!

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:37:35.526Z

Making this Fondue with Fontina and Black Pepper reminded me of cozy winter nights spent with friends and family. I love how the combination of rich cheese and the warmth of pepper creates a heavenly dip that’s perfect for all occasions. Using a blend of white wine and a bit of lemon zest adds an incredible depth of flavor that balances the creaminess beautifully.

While preparing this fondue, I discovered that adding a cornstarch slurry prevents the cheese from clumping, resulting in a silky texture. It’s such a simple trick, yet it made a world of difference in achieving that perfect consistency. Trust me; once you try it, this fondue will become a staple in your home!

Why You'll Love This Fondue
Luxurious creamy blend of Fontina cheese
Intriguing kick from black pepper elevates the dish
Fantastic for entertaining or cozy nights in

The Role of Cheese in Fondue

Fontina cheese is essential for creating a smooth, creamy base in this fondue recipe. Its high-fat content melts beautifully, resulting in a luxurious texture that's both rich and satisfying. Gruyère adds depth with its nutty flavor and slightly sweet undertones, complementing the Fontina perfectly. When using these cheeses, opt for quality varieties to enhance the overall taste, and make sure they're grated finely for easier melting.

To achieve the best results, be mindful of the cheese's temperature before melting. Allow your grated cheeses to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before incorporating them into the fondue. This step ensures that they melt more evenly and reduce the risk of clumping in the pot.

Perfecting Your Fondue Technique

Stirring the cheese mixture in a figure-eight motion is vital for achieving a smooth and silky fondue. This technique not only incorporates the ingredients but also helps to prevent the cheese from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Keep the heat steady, avoiding high temperatures that can scorch the cheese; a medium heat setting is usually ideal.

Once you've added the cheese, continue stirring until it becomes glossy and well-combined—this might take about 5 to 7 minutes. If you notice any clumps, simply continue stirring gently until they dissolve, ensuring a perfect consistency throughout the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a truly delightful fondue experience!

Fondue Ingredients

200g Fontina cheese, grated
100g Gruyère cheese, grated
200ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Garlic clove, halved (for rubbing)
Fresh bread cubes, for dipping

Make sure all ingredients are ready to create a seamless fondue experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious fondue:

Prepare the Pot

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with grated Fontina and Gruyère cheese. This helps prevent clumping.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the fondue pot. Heat over medium until steaming, but not boiling.

Add the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture, stirring continuously in a figure-eight motion until melted and smooth.

Season and Serve

Stir in the black pepper. Keep the fondue warm and serve with bread cubes for dipping.

Enjoy your luscious fondue with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Serving Suggestions

Fondue is best enjoyed with a variety of dippables. Besides fresh bread cubes, consider adding roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers for a colorful presentation. For those who enjoy a bit of zest, cherry tomatoes and apple slices can offer an interesting contrast to the rich cheese.

An ideal serving setup includes a fondue pot placed at the center of the table, surrounded by plates of dippable items. Use long forks to make dipping easier, allowing everyone to enjoy the fondue without the risk of burning fingers. To create a more interactive experience, encourage guests to customize their dippers, perhaps providing a selection of charcuterie as well!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover fondue, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, take care to do it gently on low heat, adding a splash of white wine or milk to help restore its creamy consistency. Avoid high temperatures that can make the cheese grainy, stirring frequently until it's smooth again.

While it’s best to enjoy fondue fresh, if you want to prepare it in advance, consider prepping the cheese and mixing it with cornstarch to avoid clumping later. Simply store this mixture in the refrigerator and blend it into the warm wine when you’re ready to serve, making your rendering smoother and more convenient.

Questions About Recipes

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

You can use fresh bread cubes, vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli, or even cooked meat.

→ Can I make this fondue ahead of time?

It's best to make the fondue fresh, but you can prepare the cheese and cornstarch mixture in advance.

→ Is this fondue gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free bread for dipping, the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

→ What type of wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Chardonnay works best for a balanced flavor.