Fondue with Raclette Cheese

Name: Fondue with Raclette Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g Raclette cheese, grated; 200ml dry white wine; 1 clove of garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Fresh ground black pepper, to taste; Assorted bread, cut into cubes; Blanched vegetables (like broccoli and carrots); Cured meats (such as prosciutto and salami)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Fondue with Raclette Cheese for gatherings because it's not only delicious but also a fun experience for everyone involved. The melted cheese creates a wonderfully rich and creamy dip that pairs perfectly with various dippers like bread, veggies, and cured meats. This dish brings a unique and comforting vibe to any occasion, and it’s easy to customize to your tastes. Enjoying fondue is about sharing and savoring each bite, making it perfect for cozy nights in or festive celebrations with friends and family.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:25:07.557Z

In my quest to create the perfect fondue, I discovered that using Raclette cheese truly elevates the entire experience. The cheese melts beautifully, forming a silky, luscious texture that envelops anything you dip into it. When I first tried this recipe, I used a variety of accompaniments, from crusty bread to fresh vegetables, and each bite was heavenly. It was the combination of flavors and textures that made it a standout dish.

One little tip I learned along the way is to add a splash of white wine to the cheese mixture. This not only helps in achieving a smooth texture but also enhances the flavor profile beautifully. I believe the key to a successful fondue lies in the quality of the cheese and the enjoyment you share as you dip, swirl, and savor each morsel together.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy melt of Raclette cheese
Interactive dining experience perfect for sharing
Customizable with a variety of dippers

      

The Role of Raclette Cheese

Raclette cheese is essential to this fondue recipe for its unique melting properties and rich, nutty flavor. When heated, it transforms into a gooey, silky texture that enhances the overall fondue experience. Look for high-quality, traditional Raclette, preferably from Switzerland or France, as these will provide the best flavor profile. If Raclette is hard to find, Gruyère or Emmental cheese can serve as substitutes, though they have different melting characteristics and flavors.

The thickness of your cheese also matters in achieving the perfect fondue. Grating the cheese finely allows it to melt more evenly and quickly when added to the heated wine. A food processor can make this task even easier. I've found that mixing different cheeses provides a more complex flavor, but ensure one of the cheeses retains those hallmark melting qualities of Raclette.

Choosing the Perfect Dippers

Dippers play an important role in the overall enjoyment of fondue. Fresh, crusty bread is a classic choice, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy cheese. Opt for a variety of breads, such as baguette, sourdough, or even pretzel bread, to keep things interesting. If you're feeling adventurous, try cubing some warm, soft potato or homemade bread for a heartier option.

Blanched vegetables add a fresh, crunchy element to the dish. While broccoli and carrots are popular, consider adding bell peppers, asparagus, or cauliflower for additional color and nutrition. To enhance the flavors, make sure the veggies are bright and crisp before serving. I often recommend preparing a plate of sliced cured meats, as well. Prosciutto pairs beautifully with Raclette, and salami brings a salty punch that balances the creaminess of the dip.

Serving and Enjoying Fondue

To maintain the smooth texture of your fondue, serving it at the right temperature is crucial. A candle or a low-temperature fondue burner works well for keeping the cheese warm without overheating. If the fondue begins to thicken too much, simply add a splash of warm white wine to loosen it up. Stir often to keep the mixture from forming a crust at the top, which can happen if left unattended.

Fondue is all about the sharing experience. Provide long fondue forks for dipping and encourage your guests to create their perfect combinations. You can even challenge everyone to try different pairings, which adds a fun spin to the meal. For a touch of flair, consider serving the fondue with a glass of white wine or a light beer, both of which complement the rich flavors wonderfully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful fondue.

Ingredients

400g Raclette cheese, grated
200ml dry white wine
1 clove of garlic, halved
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
Assorted bread, cut into cubes
Blanched vegetables (like broccoli and carrots)
Cured meats (such as prosciutto and salami)

Combine these ingredients for a delicious fondue!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Raclette cheese fondue.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove to impart flavor.

Melt the Cheese

In a separate saucepan, heat the white wine over medium heat. Once hot, slowly add in the grated Raclette cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Thicken the Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a bit of the melted cheese to create a paste. Stir this back into the pot of cheese to thicken the fondue.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the cheese mixture to the fondue pot, place it over a heat source, and serve with dipping options like bread, veggies, and meats.

Dig in and enjoy your cheesy feast!

Pro Tips

For a delightful twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or some herbs to enhance the flavor of your fondue.

Customizing Your Fondue

Once you have the basic fondue recipe down, feel free to experiment with additional flavors. Incorporating herbs like rosemary or thyme can give your cheese mixture a fresh aromatic twist. A dash of nutmeg or even a splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavor profile, adding depth to the rich buttery cheese. Just remember to start with small quantities and adjust according to your taste.

For a spicy kick, consider adding a touch of chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture. These can heighten the flavor and add an enjoyable heat. You could also mix in some truffle oil or mushrooms for an indulgent touch that elevates your fondue to gourmet levels.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Although fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance. Melt the cheese and mixture according to the steps provided, then let it cool slightly before refrigerating. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat the cheese in a fondue pot or double boiler, stirring in a little white wine to return it to a smooth consistency.

If you have leftover fondue, don't discard it! You can refrigerate it for a day or two. Reheat gently, adding a splash of wine or broth to bring it back to life. Leftover fondue can also make a delicious cheese sauce for pasta, adding a touch of creativity and minimizing food waste.

Troubleshooting Fondue Issues

One common issue with fondue is the separation of cheese. If you notice the cheese becoming grainy or oily, it may have overheated. Lower the heat immediately and add a little more white wine to help re-emulsify the mixture. Stir continuously until you achieve that glossy texture.

Another problem could be if the consistency is too thick. If this happens, adding a small amount of warm white wine or stock can help. Adjust slowly, as a little goes a long way. Keeping a close eye on the temperature and stirring well are key to achieving that perfect fondue consistency from the start.

Questions About Recipes

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Good options include bread, blanched vegetables, potatoes, or cured meats.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

You can substitute with Gruyère or Emmental for a different flavor profile, but the texture may vary.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store the leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can I make fondue without alcohol?

Yes, you can replace wine with broth or milk, but the flavor may differ slightly.