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Easy Cheese Fondue Recipe: Classic Swiss Style Without Wine

A piece of bread is dipped into a pot of melted cheese for a cheese fondue recipe non alcoholic, showing a long cheese pull.

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Make a creamy, authentic cheese fondue perfect for families using this simple, non-alcoholic recipe. Learn the best cheese blend and technique for a smooth dip.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 1 pound Emmental cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup dry white grape juice (non-alcoholic)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 clove garlic, halved
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of white pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Kirsch substitute (optional, use extra lemon juice or broth)
  • 1 loaf crusty bread, cut into cubes for dipping

Instructions

  1. Rub the inside of your fondue pot or heavy-bottomed saucepan with the cut side of the garlic clove. Discard the garlic.
  2. In a medium bowl, toss the shredded cheeses with the cornstarch until lightly coated. This helps prevent clumping.
  3. Pour the white grape juice and lemon juice into the pot over medium-low heat. Warm the liquid until small bubbles form around the edge; do not boil.
  4. Add the cheese mixture to the liquid gradually, a handful at a time, stirring constantly in a figure-eight motion. Keep the heat low.
  5. Continue stirring until all the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  6. Stir in the nutmeg and white pepper. If using the Kirsch substitute, stir it in now.
  7. If the fondue seems too thick, add a tablespoon of warm water or broth until you reach a smooth consistency.
  8. Transfer the pot to a trivet over a low flame or a fondue warmer to keep warm. Serve immediately with bread cubes.

Notes

  • For the best texture, grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
  • If the fondue starts to separate or look grainy, remove it from the heat immediately and whisk in one teaspoon of lemon juice or a splash of warm liquid until it smooths out again.
  • Serve with cubes of day-old French bread, blanched broccoli florets, small boiled potatoes, or apple slices for dipping.

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