Fondue with Brie and Black Pepper

Name: Fondue with Brie and Black Pepper
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Brie cheese, cut into cubes; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground; 1 clove garlic, halved; Baguette, cut into bite-sized pieces; Fresh vegetables (like broccoli and carrots) for dipping

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love this Brie and black pepper fondue! The creamy, rich flavor of the melted Brie combined with the kick from black pepper is just irresistible. Whenever I have friends over, this dish becomes the star of the evening. It’s simple to prepare and encourages everyone to get involved with dipping their favorite bread or veggies. You can control the seasoning to suit your crowd’s taste, making it a versatile party appetizer. Let’s indulge in this delightful fondue experience together!

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:16:11.787Z

Creating this fondue brought back wonderful memories of cozy gatherings. I remember the first time I experimented with Brie and black pepper, and the combination was a delightful surprise! What I learned is that letting the cheese warm up a bit before melting ensures a smoother consistency. You won’t regret opting for a good quality Brie, as it’s the star of the dish.

To make the most of this recipe, I suggest pairing different breads and fresh vegetables for dipping. We tried a variety of artisanal bread and even some crunchy carrots, which added a nice contrast to the creamy cheese. Trust me, it will be a hit at your next gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent combination of creamy Brie and aromatic black pepper
Easy and fun way to bring people together
Perfect for both casual weekends and special occasions

      

Getting the Right Cheese

Choosing the right Brie is crucial for the rich flavor and creamy texture you want in your fondue. A softer, more mature Brie usually has a more pronounced flavor, making it melt beautifully. Look for a high-quality cheese with a velvety rind that isn't too firm. If you want to experiment, feel free to substitute a Camembert; the texture and melting properties are very similar, but it will add a slightly different depth of flavor.

Additionally, be mindful of the aging of your Brie. A fresher Brie will yield a milder taste, while an older Brie will enhance the intensity of your fondue. If you cannot find Brie, a combination of Gruyère and a mild cream cheese can mimic the creamy richness and provide that smooth mouthfeel you desire.

Perfecting the Fondue Technique

Temperature control is vital to prevent the cheese from clumping or becoming grainy. When heating the wine, be patient and avoid boiling it, as this can affect the fondue's texture. Aim for the wine to be steaming, just shy of a simmer. This allows the Brie to melt seamlessly without seizing up, ensuring a silky-smooth dip.

As you mix the Brie into the wine, use a wooden spoon to ensure even melting. Stir in a figure-eight motion, which helps incorporate the cheese into the wine consistently. If you notice that your fondue isn't melting properly, consider adding a splash more wine or adjusting the heat slightly to facilitate the melting process.

Serving and Storing Fondue

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh and warm, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it over low heat, adding a little wine or milk to help restore the creamy consistency. Stir frequently to avoid burning on the bottom.

For an impressive presentation, consider serving your fondue in a heated pot or on a warming stand to keep it warm during your gathering. Pair it not only with baguette pieces but also with an array of dippables like assorted vegetables, pretzel bites, or even apples for a sweet contrast to the creamy cheese. The options are endless!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Brie cheese, cut into cubes
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
1 clove garlic, halved
Baguette, cut into bite-sized pieces
Fresh vegetables (like broccoli and carrots) for dipping

You can also add some herbs like thyme for extra flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove for a hint of flavor.

Mix Ingredients

In a bowl, toss the Brie with cornstarch to coat evenly.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the fondue pot and heat over medium until steaming, but do not boil.

Add the Cheese

Gradually add the Brie, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Season

Stir in the freshly ground black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve

Serve the fondue warm with baguette pieces and vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy dipping your favorites and share the fondue experience!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the cheese mixture.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor of your fondue, consider adding a splash of brandy or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard. These ingredients can enhance the overall taste, adding a complex layer that complements the Brie and black pepper perfectly. Taste as you go, as these can be powerful additions, requiring careful adjustment of your seasonings.

Fresh herbs can also be a delightful addition—try chives or thyme for a hint of earthiness. Incorporating these to the cheese mixture after it has melted ensures they retain their flavor and aromatic qualities, adding a refreshing twist to each dip.

Dietary Considerations

If you're catering to lactose-intolerant guests, opt for lactose-free Brie or similar cheese alternatives designed for fondue. While their melting properties might differ slightly, they're a great way to ensure everyone can partake in the fun without discomfort. Be sure to communicate openly with your guests about any changes to the original recipe.

For a vegan option, you can create a plant-based fondue using cashews and nutritional yeast. Soak raw cashews overnight and blend them with vegetable broth and a dash of white wine for that creamy texture reminiscent of melted cheese, although the flavor will vary significantly from the original recipe.

Scaling Your Fondue

This recipe can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings. Simply double or triple the ingredients while being mindful of the size and heat capacity of your fondue pot. You may need to adjust the temperature as well, ensuring that the cheese melts evenly without cooling down prematurely as more ingredients are added.

If you decide to scale down for a cozy night, remember that fondue is best served fresh. Consider preparing smaller quantities but use the same techniques and proportions to maintain the texture and flavor. Sharing a pot of fondue is all about the experience, so even in a smaller setting, it can still be a fun and interactive dish!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely! You can mix Brie with Gruyère or Cheddar for a unique taste.

→ What type of bread is best for dipping?

A crusty baguette works well, but you can also try sourdough or pumpernickel for variety.

→ Is there a non-alcoholic option for the wine?

Yes! You can substitute the white wine with a non-alcoholic wine or vegetable broth.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.