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 Swiss cheese, grated; 100g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 clove garlic, halved; 300ml dry white wine; 2 tablespoons Kirsch (cherry brandy); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Fresh bread, cut into cubes; Vegetables (such as broccoli and carrot sticks), for dipping

Highlighted under: Cozy Favorites

I absolutely love making fondue with Swiss cheese and Kirsch; it’s the perfect centerpiece for a cozy gathering. The rich, creamy texture of melted cheese coupled with the warm, fruity notes of Kirsch creates a delightful experience. Whether we’re dipping fresh bread, crispy vegetables, or juicy fruits, every bite is indulgent and comforting. This recipe is my go-to for both special occasions and simple weekend dinners, and I can't wait to share it with you. It’s as interactive as it is delicious, making it a fun meal for everyone involved.

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-01-11T17:58:39.971Z

When I first tried making fondue at home, I wasn’t sure if it would turn out as great as in the restaurants. After experimenting with different cheeses, I discovered that the nutty taste of Swiss cheese combined with the kick of Kirsch created a perfect blend. I also learned to adjust the temperature while melting the cheese to achieve that silky smooth consistency.

One of my favorite tips is to toss the cheese with a small amount of cornstarch before melting. This helps to stabilize the mixture and prevents it from becoming grainy. Trust me, it makes a world of difference and enhances the overall texture of your fondue!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Irresistible combination of creamy Swiss cheese and cherry Kirsch
Interactive dining experience that brings everyone together
Perfect for a romantic night in or festive gatherings

Understanding the Bases

The success of this fondue hinges on the quality of the cheese. Swiss cheese, known for its nutty flavor, melts beautifully when combined with Emmental, which adds a creamy texture. Both cheeses offer a slight tang that complements the sweet notes of Kirsch. For an optimal melting experience, ensure the cheese is grated finely; this increases the surface area, helping it melt evenly and reducing the chance of clumping. Using a microplane or box grater will yield the best results.

Incorporating cornstarch not only thickens the mixture but also helps to keep the cheese from becoming too stringy or clumpy. It acts as a stabilizer, ensuring you get a smooth consistency. Just be sure to mix the cornstarch with the cheese before adding any liquid; this prevents it from clumping together and ensures a silky fondue.

The Importance of Kirsch

Kirsch, or cherry brandy, is an essential ingredient for adding depth to your fondue. It adds a fruity brightness that elevates the rich flavors of the cheeses. If you don't have Kirsch on hand, you can substitute it with a cherry-flavored liqueur, but do remember that the flavor profile might differ slightly. In a pinch, a splash of cherry juice combined with a bit of brandy could work as a makeshift substitute, but the authentic taste of Kirsch is unmatched.

It's essential to add Kirsch after the cheese is fully melted, as heating it too much can cause the alcohol to evaporate, diminishing its flavor. The best time to add it is once the mixture is glossy and creamy, stirring it in gently to ensure an even distribution throughout the melted cheese.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious fondue experience.

Fondue Ingredients

200g Swiss cheese, grated
100g Emmental cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
300ml dry white wine
2 tablespoons Kirsch (cherry brandy)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Fresh bread, cut into cubes
Vegetables (such as broccoli and carrot sticks), for dipping

Make sure to prepare your dippers while the cheese is melting for the best experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect fondue.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove. Discard the garlic, as it will infuse the pot with flavor.

Melt the Cheese

In the pot, combine the grated Swiss and Emmental cheeses with the cornstarch. Gradually stir in the white wine over medium heat until the cheese is melted and smooth.

Add Kirsch

Once the cheese is fully melted, add the Kirsch and stir to combine. Adjust the heat to keep the cheese warm and melty.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately with bread cubes and vegetables for dipping. Enjoy the interactive dining experience!

Remember to keep the cheese warm while you dip!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or a touch of blue cheese for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For an aesthetically pleasing presentation, arrange a variety of dippables alongside your fondue. Fresh bread is classic, but consider including an assortment like baguette, sourdough, or even rye for different flavor dimensions. Alongside bread, colorful vegetable sticks, including sliced bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini, add a refreshing crunch and a pop of color that make the dish visually appealing.

For a surprising twist, try including bite-sized pieces of fruit such as apples or pears. Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory cheese, creating an unexpected yet delightful flavor combination. If you want to go even further, consider grilled or roasted vegetables for a more intense flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some elements in advance. Grate your cheeses and mix them with cornstarch the day before, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also ensures that your fondue melts perfectly since the cheese will already be seasoned with cornstarch when you’re ready to cook.

If you have leftover fondue, it can be stored in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching the cheese. You may need to add a splash of white wine to loosen the mixture as it reheats. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause uneven heating and result in a clumpy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Swiss and Emmental are traditional, you can mix in other cheeses like Gruyère for a different flavor profile.

→ What if I don't have a fondue pot?

You can use a regular saucepan on low heat; just make sure to keep stirring to prevent the cheese from burning.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Just make sure the wine you use is vegetarian-friendly, or you can substitute with vegetable broth.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove while stirring until smooth.