Fondue with White Cheddar and Cracked Pepper

Name: Fondue with White Cheddar and Cracked Pepper
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; Fresh baguette, cut into bite-sized pieces; Blanched broccoli florets; Cherry tomatoes; Sliced apples; Cubes of cooked potatoes

Highlighted under: Cultural Food

I absolutely love hosting cozy gatherings, and nothing sets the mood quite like a bubbling pot of fondue. This Fondue with White Cheddar and Cracked Pepper is a personal favorite of mine because it combines the rich creaminess of white cheddar with a delightful kick from cracked pepper. It creates such a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Plus, it's incredibly easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for both casual get-togethers and special occasions.

Created by

Dahlia Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-14T07:33:35.568Z

When I first tried this Fondue with White Cheddar and Cracked Pepper at a friend's dinner party, I was instantly hooked. The creamy texture of the melted cheese paired with the aromatic flavor of cracked pepper was unlike anything I'd tasted before. I've since experimented with different dipping options and found that fresh bread and crisp vegetables hold up perfectly to the rich fondue.

In perfecting my own version, I realized that the key to a smooth fondue is to always use shredded cheese. It melts evenly and keeps the texture creamy without clumping. I also like to add a splash of white wine, which not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve the ideal consistency.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture with a hint of spice
Perfect for sharing and great for social gatherings
Easily customizable with your favorite dippers

Understanding Cheese Choices

The choice of cheeses plays a crucial role in the flavor profile of your fondue. White cheddar brings a rich, sharp taste, while Gruyère adds a smooth, nutty element. I recommend using high-quality cheese for the best melting properties; look for cheeses labeled 'for melting' at your local market. If you're unable to find Gruyère, Emmental can be a great substitute, providing similar melting capabilities and a mild flavor that complements the white cheddar wonderfully.

Tossing the cheeses with cornstarch is another essential step. This mixture not only helps prevent the cheese from clumping together but also contributes to a creamy texture that you're aiming for in fondue. Without sufficient cornstarch, you run the risk of ending up with a grainy consistency. Be sure to coat the cheese evenly, and this will help maintain a smooth and velvety sauce as it melts.

Perfecting the Fondue Technique

When heating the wine and lemon juice, keep a close eye on the mixture—aim for small bubbles rather than a full boil. Boiling can cause the fondue to separate or create a gritty texture. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature; ideally, the mixture should be around 175°F (80°C) before you start adding the cheese. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent scorching at the bottom of the pot.

Adding the cheese gradually is a key technique for achieving that desired creamy consistency. I suggest adding it in thirds, allowing each addition to melt completely before adding more. This gradual incorporation helps the cheeses combine smoothly without clumping, avoiding frustration. If the fondue becomes too thick, you can whisk in a little additional wine to loosen it up—just be cautious not to add too much at once.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for a delightful fondue experience!

Fondue Ingredients

2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cracked black pepper
2 teaspoons cornstarch

Dippers

Fresh baguette, cut into bite-sized pieces
Blanched broccoli florets
Cherry tomatoes
Sliced apples
Cubes of cooked potatoes

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's move on to making the fondue!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect fondue.

Prepare the Cheese

In a medium bowl, toss the shredded white cheddar and Gruyère cheese with cornstarch. This will help in keeping the mixture smooth while melting.

Heat the Wine

In a fondue pot, combine the white wine and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat until small bubbles start to form, but do not let it boil.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the pot, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon until melted and smooth.

Season and Serve

Stir in the cracked black pepper and mix well. Serve immediately with your choice of dippers.

Enjoy dipping and sharing this delicious fondue with loved ones!

Pro Tips

For best results, use high-quality cheeses and make sure they are shredded. You can also experiment with adding different herbs or spices to customize the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to dippers, the variety is part of the fun with fondue! In addition to the listed options, try adding some roasted red peppers, marinated artichokes, or even soft pretzels for an exciting twist. The contrasting textures and flavors enhance the overall experience and invite creativity. Just be sure everything is cut into bite-sized pieces to make dipping easier and more enjoyable.

For a more traditional Swiss experience, consider adding charcuterie such as thinly-sliced cured meats or pickles alongside your dippers. These savory elements can balance the richness of the cheese, creating a well-rounded tasting experience. Present everything on a beautiful platter for a visually appealing display that encourages sharing.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're looking to save time, you can prepare the cheese and cornstarch mixture ahead of your gathering. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the fondue steps to ensure even melting. This preparation not only streamlines your cooking process but also allows you to focus more on your guests.

Fondue can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days if you happen to have leftovers. Gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring constantly to ensure it smooths out again. If the mixture has thickened, a splash of white wine can help bring it back to the right consistency. Remember, though, that freshly made fondue is always best enjoyed straight from the pot!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and results in a smoother texture.

→ What if I don't have white wine?

You can substitute white wine with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Allow the fondue to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently when ready to serve.

→ Can I add other cheeses to the mix?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like fontina or mozzarella for varied flavors.