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Classic Cheddar Cheese Fondue

Close-up of a creamy orange dip, resembling cheddar cheese fondue, topped with two toasted bread cubes.

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Make a smooth, rich cheddar cheese fondue at home. This recipe uses sharp cheddar and a touch of dry white wine to create a comforting party dip that stays creamy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, halved
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rub the inside of your heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven with the cut side of the garlic clove. Discard the garlic.
  2. In a small bowl, toss the grated cheddar cheese with the cornstarch until the cheese is evenly coated. This helps prevent separation.
  3. Pour the white wine into the saucepan and heat over medium-low heat until small bubbles form around the edge. Do not let it boil.
  4. Gradually add the coated cheese to the warm wine, a handful at a time, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula in a figure-eight motion. Keep the heat low.
  5. Continue stirring until each addition of cheese is fully melted and smooth before adding the next batch.
  6. Once all the cheese is melted, stir in the lemon juice and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. If the fondue seems too thick, add a tablespoon of warm wine or water until you reach your desired consistency.
  8. Transfer the fondue to a fondue pot set over a low flame or warmer to serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use good quality, aged sharp cheddar for the best flavor. Grate the cheese yourself; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the fondue grainy.
  • If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute the wine with apple cider or vegetable broth, but you may need a little extra cornstarch to stabilize it.
  • For the perfect bread dippers, use cubes of day-old French or sourdough bread.

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