Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Nutmeg

I absolutely adore making fondue, and this Swiss cheese and nutmeg version is my personal favorite. The creamy, gooey texture paired with the aromatic nutmeg creates a decadent dish perfect for sharing. Whenever I have friends over, I love serving this because it brings everyone together, dipping their favorite bread or vegetables into the warm cheese. It’s comforting, delightful, and a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Plus, the preparation is simple yet impressive, leaving everyone craving more!

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:28:05.000Z

When I first made this fondue, I was surprised at how easy it was to achieve that restaurant-quality experience at home. The key lies in selecting high-quality Swiss cheese and grating it finely for a smooth melt. I also love how the nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that elevates the dish, turning a simple cheese dip into something extraordinary.

What I found most enjoyable was the act of dipping—the fresh crusty bread is essential, as it provides the perfect texture to soak up that luscious cheese. Remember to keep the fondue pot at a lower heat once it’s melted to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy over time. Trust me, your guests will be begging for the recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Rich and creamy flavor that captivates your palate
The aromatic touch of nutmeg adds a unique twist
Perfect for cozy gatherings with friends or family

      

The Art of Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheeses is crucial for a successful fondue. Gruyère and Emmental are classic options, offering a perfect balance of creaminess and flavor. Gruyère contributes a nutty depth, while Emmental adds a mild sweetness. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute Gruyère with Comté or Jarlsberg, and Emmental with any semi-soft cheese like Havarti, but be aware that this may slightly alter the final flavor profile.

For the best melting results, grate your cheese instead of cubing it. Grated cheese incorporates smoothly into the wine mixture, preventing any clumping. This technique not only ensures a seamless blend but also allows the cheeses to melt evenly. If you notice any lumps during melting, simply maintain low heat and continue stirring vigorously until the mixture becomes silky and glossy.

Perfecting the Fondue Experience

The choice of bread can enhance your fondue experience immensely. Use a crusty baguette or sourdough, as the firm crust provides an excellent vessel for scooping up the melted cheese. Consider toasting the bread lightly before serving; this adds a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the smoothness of the fondue.

When serving fondue, ensure the cheese remains at a consistent heat by using a flame or an electric fondue pot. Keep it on low heat to prevent the cheese from scorching or thickening too much. If the fondue begins to seize up, a splash of white wine can help restore its creamy texture—it’s a quick fix that can save your meal!

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 clove of garlic, halved
300ml dry white wine
1 tsp lemon juice
A pinch of nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
Cubed bread, for dipping

Instructions

Prepare the Pot

In a fondue pot, rub the inside with the halved garlic clove to infuse flavor. Discard the garlic.

Melt the Cheese

Over medium heat, add the white wine and lemon juice to the pot. Gradually stir in the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheese until melted and smooth.

Season the Fondue

Add in the nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.

Serve and Enjoy

Keep the mixture heated on low and serve with cubed bread for dipping!

Pro Tips

To keep the fondue smooth, avoid letting it boil vigorously. Stir continuously and adjust the heat as needed.

Serving Suggestions

While cubed bread is a classic choice, feel free to get creative with your dippers! Fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli, bell pepper strips, or even crunchy apples can add a refreshing twist. For a heartier option, consider including boiled baby potatoes or cured meats, which pair beautifully with the rich cheese, offering diverse flavor profiles with each dip.

To elevate the fondue experience further, consider adding flavored oils or dips. A drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as chives or thyme, can bring a touch of sophistication. Guests will love experimenting with different combinations, making the meal even more memorable.

Make-Ahead Tips

Fondue can be made ahead of time up until the melting stage. Prepare your cheese and wine mixture, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat the mixture over low heat, stirring continuously. This saves valuable time when you have guests, allowing you to enjoy their company rather than spending the whole evening in the kitchen.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of wine to restore the creamy consistency. Note that reheated fondue may not be as supple as when first made, but it will still be delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can try cheeses like Fontina or Raclette for different flavors!

→ What type of bread is best for dipping?

Crusty bread like a baguette works best, but you can also use vegetables like broccoli or carrots.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

This fondue is already vegetarian, but ensure that the wine is also vegetarian-friendly.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and warm it just before serving.