Fondue with White Cheddar and Rosemary

Name: Fondue with White Cheddar and Rosemary
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon corn starch; Black pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love hosting gatherings with this decadent Fondue with White Cheddar and Rosemary. It’s a dish that not only brings warmth and joy but also invites everyone to gather around the table and dip into something utterly delicious. The combination of creamy white cheddar and fragrant rosemary creates a unique flavor that's both comforting and sophisticated. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both intimate dinners and larger parties. Your friends and family will be talking about this fondue for a long time!

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:07:14.847Z

I remember the first time I made this fondue; the rich aroma of melting cheese filled my kitchen and set the perfect cozy atmosphere for the evening. We paired it with an array of dippables—fresh bread, assorted vegetables, and even some sliced apples—which added an exciting twist. The rosemary infuses the cheese with an herbal note that perfectly complements the creamy cheddar.

For the best texture, I recommend using a mix of young and aged white cheddar. The younger cheese melts beautifully, while the aged variety adds a punch of flavor. Stirring continuously while heating prevents the cheese from clumping, ensuring a smooth and luscious fondue that everyone will love!

        Why You Will Love This Fondue
        Decadent combination of white cheddar and fragrant rosemary
Creamy and smooth texture that draws everyone in
Interactive and fun dish perfect for gatherings
Easy to prepare, yet beautifully impressive for guests

      

The Science Behind the Cheese

In this fondue, the use of white cheddar cheese is crucial for achieving that creamy texture and rich flavor. White cheddar melts smoothly when heated, which is essential for a successful fondue. This cheese has a slightly sharp taste that balances well with the sweetness of the wine, creating a harmonious blend. If you prefer, you can substitute with Gruyère or fontina for a different flavor profile, but keep in mind that the melting properties may vary slightly.

It's also important to use shredded cheese instead of chunks. The finer texture allows for a more even melt, which helps the cheese combine seamlessly with the wine. If you find your cheese is clumping, consider using a food processor to finely shred the cheese before tossing it with cornstarch. Ensuring that your cheese is well-coated with cornstarch prevents it from becoming gritty and maintains that luxurious mouthfeel.

Cornstarch is another important ingredient, acting as a stabilizer that aids in maintaining the smooth consistency of the fondue. It prevents the proteins in the cheese from binding together too tightly, which can cause a grainy texture. Don't skip this step—mixing the cornstarch with the cheese before melting ensures a creamy, appealing fondue every time.

Choosing the Right Wine

Selecting the right wine is a vital step that can significantly influence the flavor of your fondue. A dry white wine is recommended, as its acidity helps to brighten the richness of the cheese. Look for wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which have fruity undertones that complement the sharpness of the cheddar. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, consider using a mixture of vegetable broth and a splash of white vinegar for the acidity.

Another key point is to avoid boiling the wine once it's heated. You want to bring the wine to a gentle simmer, which is just below boiling. This low-and-slow heating not only creates a good base for the fondue but also prevents alcohol evaporation, preserving the wine's flavor nuances. If you notice that too much steam is rising or you see bubbles forming, reduce the heat immediately to avoid cooking off too much of the wine's flavor.

Finally, consider adding a splash of lemon juice for an extra layer of brightness if you're looking to enhance the overall taste further. If you don't have dry white wine on hand, feel free to experiment with other white wines, but stick to varieties that aren't too sweet, as sweetness might overpower the delicate balance between cheese and rosemary.

Serving Suggestions and Dippables

When it comes to serving the fondue, presentation matters! Transfer the melted cheese mixture to a well-heated fondue pot or a ceramic bowl placed over a warming tray. This ensures your fondue remains smooth and dippable throughout the gathering. Garnishing the top with a sprinkle of extra chopped rosemary or a light dusting of paprika can add visual appeal and invite guests to dive in.

As for dippables, you have a plethora of options! Classic choices include cubes of crusty bread, blanched vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower, and even apple slices for those who enjoy a touch of sweetness. For a unique flair, consider offering pretzel bites or roasted potatoes. Remember to prepare your dippables in bite-sized pieces for easy dipping and enjoyment. If you're expecting a larger crowd, scaling up the quantities of dippables is simple—just ensure you have a variety to keep it interesting.

It's worth noting that fondue is best enjoyed immediately after preparation, as the texture can change if it cools. However, if you have leftovers, you can refrigerate them and reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in a splash of white wine or a bit of milk to restore its creamy consistency if it thickens.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a mouthwatering fondue experience:

For the Fondue

2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
1 cup dry white wine
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 tablespoon corn starch
Black pepper to taste

Don’t forget to prepare your dippables!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your fondue masterpiece:

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, toss the shredded white cheddar with corn starch, ensuring the cheese is well-coated. This step helps in keeping the fondue creamy.

Heat the Wine

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the dry white wine and minced garlic. Heat until the wine is simmering, but do not let it boil.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering wine, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely. Mix in the chopped rosemary and add black pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the cheese mixture to a fondue pot, place it over a flame or heat source, and serve immediately with your dippables!

Enjoy your delicious fondue with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For a unique flavor twist, try adding a splash of lemon juice to the fondue right before serving. It brightens the cheese flavor beautifully!

Make-Ahead Tips

For those who love to plan ahead, you can prepare the cheese mixture a day in advance. Just blend the shredded cheese with cornstarch, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate it. On the day of your gathering, simply heat the wine and follow the melting steps. This method ensures that the cooking process is even smoother and allows you to enjoy the company of your guests without the rush.

Another make-ahead option is to prepare the dippables. Wash and cut vegetables, cube bread, and portion any other items you plan to serve. Store everything in individual airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, all you need to do last minute is arrange your beautiful platter, enhancing your hosting experience.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with flavors by infusing the wine with herbs or spices prior to adding the cheese. For instance, simmering the wine with a few sprigs of thyme or a bay leaf can offer a surprising twist that guests will adore. Remember to strain the wine before incorporating it into the fondue mixture.

Variations and Customizations

To keep things fresh, consider adding a variety of cheeses to the base recipe. Blending white cheddar with a soft cheese like cream cheese or a blue cheese can create a unique flavor profile that excites the palate. The addition of a pungent cheese can balance well with the freshness of the rosemary, providing depth.

Another way to infuse your fondue with more flavor is to incorporate roasted garlic into the recipe. Instead of using raw garlic, roast whole garlic cloves until they are golden and creamy, then mash them into the melted cheese for a sweet, mellow flavor. This small change can make a big difference in the overall taste and depth of your fondue.

For a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture. This adds an exciting layer of heat without overpowering the delicate rosemary and cheddar pairing. Tailoring your fondue to your personal tastes or dietary preferences can elevate the experience and keep every gathering unique.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your fondue is too thick, it can be easily remedied. Just add a little more white wine or some milk while stirring over low heat until the desired consistency is reached. This will help create that luscious, pourable texture essential for dipping. Be cautious with the heat, as overheating cheese can lead to separation, ruining the fondue's smoothness.

Conversely, if your fondue turns out too thin, it might be due to insufficient cheese or too much wine. To help thicken it, mix together a small amount of cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry, then add it to the fondue while stirring continuously over gentle heat until thickened. This method works quickly and efficiently to achieve a balanced texture.

Lastly, if you experience clumping or a grainy texture after melting the cheese, it often indicates that the cheese wasn’t uniformly melted or that the heat was too high. For a smoother finish, remove the fondue pot from the heat and give it a vigorous stir to bring it back together. If needed, return it to a gentle heat while stirring continuously.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses, but make sure to include a good melting cheese for the best texture.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

You can dip bread, vegetables, cooked meats, or even fruits like apples and pears.

→ How can I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of wine or milk.

→ Is it necessary to use dry white wine?

While dry white wine enhances the flavor, you can substitute it with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic option.