Fondue with White Cheddar and Dijon

Name: Fondue with White Cheddar and Dijon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 oz white cheddar cheese, grated; 4 oz Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Fresh bread, vegetables, or fruits for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore making fondue at home, and this recipe for Fondue with White Cheddar and Dijon has become a favorite. The combination of sharp white cheddar and zesty Dijon mustard creates a creamy, flavorful dip that’s perfect for gatherings. It’s such a fun interactive way to enjoy dinner, with crusty bread and fresh veggies to dunk. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make! With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you’ll impress your guests and have a delightful evening ahead.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:28:06.786Z

When I first tried making fondue for friends, I never imagined it would turn into my favorite entertaining dish. The rich flavor of white cheddar blended with the bite of Dijon mustard creates an indulgent experience that keeps everyone coming back for more. I love how the aroma fills the room as the cheese melts away, drawing everyone to the table.

What makes this recipe special is the unique balance of flavors. The Dijon adds a sharpness that cuts through the richness of the cheese, ensuring each bite isn’t overwhelming. I recommend using a good quality white cheddar—it's worth the investment for the creamy texture and flavor it brings to the fondue.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The unique twist of Dijon mustard elevates classic fondue flavors
Creamy and rich texture that makes every bite memorable
Perfect for cozy nights or special gatherings with friends and family

      

Mastering the Cheese Melting Process

The key to a smooth fondue lies in the melting process. Heat the wine and garlic gently over medium heat; don't let it boil, as high temperatures can cause the cheese to become grainy. Stir the cheese mixture in gradually, allowing each handful to melt before adding more. This technique helps maintain that luxurious, creamy texture. Aim for a glossy finish, which indicates that everything has combined beautifully.

Using a fondue pot works wonders for temperature control, but if you don’t have one, a heavy-bottomed saucepan can substitute well. Just ensure you keep the heat low and continuously stir to prevent scorching. The result should be a silky dip, perfect for adhering to your chosen dippers.

Flavor Variations and Pairings

Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations! While white cheddar and Gruyère provide richness, you could substitute a sharp cheddar or add a bit of blue cheese for a bold kick. Keep the proportions similar, ensuring you have a total of 12 ounces to maintain the fondue's consistency.

When it comes to dippers, crusty baguette is traditional, but don’t shy away from fresh vegetables like broccoli florets, bell pepper strips, or even apple slices for a sweet contrast. Plan for about 1 to 2 ounces of dippers per person, ensuring a variety to keep everyone engaged during your fondue gathering.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start:

Fondue Ingredients

8 oz white cheddar cheese, grated
4 oz Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Fresh bread, vegetables, or fruits for dipping

Have everything ready to go for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delightful fondue:

Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by grating the cheese and mincing the garlic. In a bowl, combine the grated cheeses with cornstarch, mixing well to ensure the starch is evenly distributed.

Melt the Cheese

In a fondue pot or heavy saucepan, add the wine and garlic over medium heat. Once the wine is warm, gradually add the cheese mixture, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Add Flavors

Stir in the Dijon mustard and lemon juice, mixing until fully incorporated. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more wine to reach your desired consistency.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the pot to a fondue stand over a low flame to keep warm. Serve with fresh bread, vegetables, or fruits for dipping.

Have fun sharing with family and friends!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, try adding some freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese mixture. For a fun twist, swap the white wine with hard cider for a different flavor profile.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cheese mixture in advance by combining the grated cheeses and cornstarch, then storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When you're ready to serve, simply follow the melting and flavoring steps, adding a bit more wine if the mixture thickens during storage.

For the garlic, consider roasting it beforehand to mellow out its flavor, adding a subtle sweetness to your fondue. Roasted garlic can be stored in olive oil in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, offering a convenient flavor enhancer.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fondue turns out too thick, don’t fret! Just stir in small amounts of warm wine until you reach your desired texture. Conversely, if it’s too thin, a touch of additional cornstarch mixed with cold wine can help thicken it without affecting the flavor. Just make sure to stir continuously as it's added.

Should the cheese start to seize or clump, lower the heat and add a splash more wine along with gentle stirring to coax it back to a smooth state. Maintaining consistent low heat throughout the melting process is essential to prevent these issues.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can mix and match different cheeses like Fontina or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.

→ What can I dip in fondue?

Great dippers include cubed bread, steamed vegetables, apple slices, or even pretzels for a fun twist!

→ How do I reheat leftover fondue?

To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of wine to help restore the creamy texture.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free bread and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free, this fondue can be enjoyed by those with dietary restrictions.