Fondue with Smoked Swiss and Thyme

Name: Fondue with Smoked Swiss and Thyme
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup smoked Swiss cheese, grated; 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves; 1 clove garlic, halved; Salt and pepper to taste; Bread cubes or vegetables for dipping

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’ve always adored the communal nature of fondue, where everyone dips into a shared pot of melted goodness. This Fondue with Smoked Swiss and Thyme takes that experience up a notch, offering a delightful combination of rich, smoky flavors. The creamy Swiss cheese perfectly balances with the aromatic thyme, creating a dish that is both comforting and gourmet. Whether I'm hosting a cozy gathering with friends or enjoying a quiet night at home, this fondue recipe always brings joy and deliciousness to the table. It’s a perfect recipe for those moments that deserve a little extra special treatment.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:07:15.608Z

Creating this fondue recipe was a delightful experiment for me. I decided to incorporate smoked Swiss cheese for its rich and complex flavor profile. The thyme added an unexpected yet delightful herbal twist that elevated the dish even further. I was surprised at how a simple herb could transform the entire experience. As I stirred the melting cheese, the aroma filled my kitchen, making it feel warm and inviting.

One crucial tip I learned is to control the heat carefully. Too high and the cheese can become grainy; too low and it won’t melt properly. I also recommend using a good-quality white wine to enhance the flavors without overwhelming the cheese. Every bite of this fondue is a creamy, smoky hug that warms your soul!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Creamy smoked Swiss flavor that excites the palate
Aromatic thyme adds a unique twist
Perfect for sharing during gatherings and celebrations

      

Perfecting the Cheese Melt

To achieve that dreamy, gooey fondue texture, it's important to choose high-quality cheeses. Smoked Swiss brings a deep, rich flavor, while Gruyère adds creaminess and a slightly nutty undertone. For the best melt, ensure your cheeses are freshly grated. Pre-packaged grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of your fondue. Tossing the cheese with cornstarch helps to stabilize the emulsion, preventing clumps as it melts into a luscious, silky sauce.

When incorporating the cheese into the warmed wine, do so gradually to prevent the mixture from cooling down too quickly. Stir gently but continuously in a figure-eight motion; this encourages even melting and prevents the cheese from seizing up. If the fondue appears too thick, a splash of additional wine or a tiny bit of water can be added to achieve the desired consistency. Remember, the goal is a velvety, pourable dip that clings beautifully to your dipping items.

Enhancing Flavor with Thyme

Fresh thyme is the star herb in this fondue, bringing an aromatic earthiness that complements the smokiness of the cheese. If fresh thyme isn't available, dried thyme can be used—just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated. Use about one-third of the amount when substituting, as too much can overpower the dish. Adding the thyme along with the cheese allows its essential oils to permeate the fondue, enhancing every dip with its distinctive taste.

For a bit of extra complexity, consider infusing your wine with additional herbs or spices. A bay leaf or a hint of nutmeg can add subtle depth to the flavor profile. Just be sure to remove any whole spices after the wine is heated to maintain the fondue's creamy texture without any gritty or unexpected bites.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

When it comes to dipping, variety is key! While traditional bread cubes work wonderfully, consider offering a selection of crudités such as blanched broccoli, carrots, or even sliced apples for a refreshing contrast. Each dipper adds a unique texture and flavor that interacts with the cheesy goodness. If you want to elevate the experience, lightly toast your bread cubes for a crunchy exterior that makes each bite even more satisfying.

For a themed fondue night, pair your cheese fondue with a selection of charcuterie. Cured meats like prosciutto or salami complement the richness of the cheese beautifully. Additionally, a light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a nice balance to the meal. Be sure to have plenty of napkins on hand—fondue is a social experience, and dipping can get delightfully messy!

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

1 cup smoked Swiss cheese, grated
1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
1 clove garlic, halved
Salt and pepper to taste
Bread cubes or vegetables for dipping

Instructions

Prepare the Fondue Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic. This infuses a subtle garlic flavor into the cheese.

Mix the Cheese

In a bowl, toss the grated smoked Swiss and Gruyère cheese with cornstarch to coat evenly. This helps to keep the cheese from clumping.

Heat the Wine

In the fondue pot, heat the white wine over medium heat until it is warm but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the warm wine, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Stir in thyme, and season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Keep the fondue warm, and serve with an assortment of bread cubes or blanched vegetables for dipping.

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy or kirsch to the mixture before serving. Make sure to use high-quality cheese for the best results.

Troubleshooting Your Fondue

If your fondue isn’t melting smoothly, it may be due to the heat being too high. Lower the temperature and continue stirring to re-emulsify the cheese. If you notice a stringy texture, this may indicate that the cheese was overheated or the wrong type was used. Always use cheeses known for their melting properties, and keep heat under control.

Should your fondue become too thick as it cools, simply return it to a gentle heat and add a splash more wine to restore the creaminess. Once warmed, continue stirring to integrate the liquid throughout the cheese. Avoid adding too much at once; excess liquid can lead to a soupy consistency.

Make-Ahead Options

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare components in advance. Shred your cheeses and mix them with cornstarch a few hours before serving. This ensures everything is ready to go just before you heat the wine. You can also mince the garlic and wash your thyme ahead of time, reducing stress during party prep.

If you have leftover fondue, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use a double boiler or gently warm it in the fondue pot, adding a bit of wine or milk to bring it back to a smooth consistency. Reheated fondue can be transformed into a cheese sauce, perfect for topping pasta or vegetables!

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling your fondue recipe up or down is quite straightforward. For every additional cup of cheese, increase the wine by about half that amount to maintain the right consistency. Remember to adjust cornstarch accordingly, allowing the mixture to remain smooth. Keep in mind that larger quantities may need more time to melt, so be patient during the cheese integration phase.

For larger gatherings, consider using a larger fondue pot or multiple pots to ensure everyone can dip simultaneously without waiting. Just be sure to maintain an even heat across all pots to avoid uneven melting, and keep the cheese mixture well stirred to prevent burning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese for fondue?

Yes, you can experiment with other melting cheeses like Fontina or Havarti, but for the best flavor, stick to Swiss varieties.

→ What should I serve with fondue?

Bread cubes, steamed vegetables, and even fruits like apples or pears pair wonderfully with cheese fondue.

→ How do I reheat leftover fondue?

You can reheat it gently over low heat, adding a splash of wine or milk to help re-emulsify the cheese.

→ Can I make fondue without alcohol?

Yes, you can use vegetable or chicken broth as a substitute for wine, but note that the flavor might change.