Fondue with Caramelized Garlic

Name: Fondue with Caramelized Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, shredded; 200g Emmental cheese, shredded; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Bread cubes for dipping; Assorted vegetables for dipping; 4 cloves garlic, sliced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp sugar; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen

I absolutely love making Fondue with Caramelized Garlic for gatherings. The combination of gooey cheese and the rich, sweet flavor of caramelized garlic creates a unique blend that tantalizes the palate. It's perfect for dipping a variety of breads and vegetables, making it an interactive and delicious experience for everyone. Whether it's a cozy night in or a lively party, this fondue always brings smiles and satisfied taste buds. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.

Created by

Phoebe Langridge

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:01:35.113Z

When I first attempted Fondue with Caramelized Garlic, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors melded together. The key is to take your time caramelizing the garlic, allowing it to develop a deep sweetness without burning. This patience pays off with every creamy bite!

I also discovered that using a mix of cheeses, such as gruyère and emmental, brings complexity and depth to the fondue. The blend softens beautifully and makes for a sensational dip that goes wonderfully with fresh, crusty bread and crisp vegetables.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors
Interactive dining experience perfect for any occasion
Comforting and indulgent, great for sharing

      

The Art of Caramelizing Garlic

Caramelizing garlic may seem simple, but it's an essential technique that elevates the flavor profile of your fondue. The key is to cook your sliced garlic slowly over medium heat to prevent burning. You'll want to keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally until it becomes golden, which typically takes about 10 minutes. If you notice it browning too quickly, reduce the heat. This method brings out the natural sugars in the garlic, transforming its sharpness into a sweet, complex flavor that complements the rich cheeses beautifully.

Choosing the right olive oil can also affect the overall taste. I recommend using a good quality extra virgin olive oil for a richer depth of flavor in the caramelized garlic. You can even infuse the oil with herbs like thyme or rosemary beforehand for an added aromatic twist. Should you have any leftover caramelized garlic, it's delicious when spread on toasted bread or incorporated into other dishes, making it a versatile component to keep on hand.

Mastering Fondue Techniques

The choice of cheese is crucial in a fondue recipe. Gruyère and Emmental are traditional, providing the perfect melt with their high-fat content. If you're looking for alternatives, try using a mix of Fontina for creaminess and a sharp cheddar for a punch of flavor. Be sure to shred your cheeses finely; this helps them melt more evenly. Tossing the cheese with cornstarch before adding the wine helps prevent clumping, creating a smooth, silky texture that clings beautifully to your dippers.

As you're melting the cheese over medium heat, stirring constantly is key. You'll want to maintain a consistent temperature to avoid scorching. If you notice the cheese starting to bubble aggressively, reduce the heat immediately. A smooth, glossy finish indicates that your fondue is ready for the final touches, such as adding lemon juice, which brightens the overall flavor and balances the richness.

Ingredients for Fondue with Caramelized Garlic

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, shredded
200g Emmental cheese, shredded
1 cup dry white wine
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Bread cubes for dipping
Assorted vegetables for dipping

Caramelized Garlic Ingredients

4 cloves garlic, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar
Salt to taste

Feel free to get creative with your dipping items—think broccoli, carrots, and even apples for a sweet contrast!

Instructions for Fondue with Caramelized Garlic

Caramelize the Garlic

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sugar, cooking gently until the garlic is golden and caramelized, about 10 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt, then remove from heat.

Prepare the Fondue

In a fondue pot, combine the shredded Gruyère and Emmental cheeses. Toss with cornstarch to coat the cheese evenly. Add the minced garlic and dry white wine, then heat over medium, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper. Top off with the caramelized garlic. Serve warm with bread cubes and assorted vegetables for dipping.

Keep the fondue warm over low heat while you enjoy. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to maintain that creamy texture!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider infusing the wine with herbs like thyme or rosemary before adding the cheese mix.

Serving Suggestions

For a more interactive dining experience, consider providing a variety of dippers. Alongside traditional bread cubes, include blanched vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers for a pop of color and texture. You could even offer pretzel bites or cooked baby potatoes for a delightful twist. I enjoy arranging my dippers on a large platter, making it visually appealing and easy for guests to reach and explore different flavors.

To enhance your fondue experience, think about serving it alongside a selection of charcuterie—cured meats and olives pair wonderfully with the rich cheese. You might want to provide small bowls of pesto or balsamic reduction for an extra burst of flavor. This not only diversifies the taste experience but also adds an elegant touch to your gathering.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to serve this fondue at a later time, you can prepare the caramelized garlic ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat it in a pan on low heat to restore its silky texture. However, for the best flavor, I recommend making it fresh on the day of your gathering, especially since the aroma of caramelized garlic is truly irresistible.

The cheese mixture can also be prepped ahead of time. Combine the shredded cheeses and cornstarch, and keep them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. Just remember that when you're melting the prepared cheese, you may need to add a splash more wine or lemon juice as it may dry out a little in the fridge.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Fontina or cheddar for different flavors.

→ Is it possible to make this vegan?

You can use plant-based cheeses and a vegan wine to create a delicious vegan fondue alternative.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave before serving.

→ What can I dip besides bread?

Consider fresh veggies, cooked potatoes, apples, or even pretzels for a fun twist!