Fondue with Beer and Swiss Cheese

Name: Fondue with Beer and Swiss Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g Swiss cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 250ml beer; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Black pepper to taste; Bread cubes, vegetables, and fruits for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I’ve always been a fan of fondue, but when I added beer to the mix, it took this classic dish to a whole new level. The rich, nutty flavors of Swiss cheese blend perfectly with the deep notes of beer, creating a luscious and creamy dip that’s perfect for gatherings. I particularly love serving it with fresh bread and crunchy vegetables. It’s an engaging experience as everyone can gather around and dip to their heart's content. Interactive and delicious, this beer-infused fondue is sure to impress!

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:58:09.256Z

When I first tried making fondue with beer, I was surprised at how much depth it added to the flavors. Combining the cheese with a good quality beer enhances the richness and gives a slightly tangy note that balances wonderfully with the creaminess. I recommend using a medium-bodied beer to keep the flavors harmonious.

To achieve the perfect consistency, don't forget to keep stirring the mixture as it heats. A gentle simmer is key so that the cheese melts smoothly without clumping. Trust me, the result is a delightful blend of gooey goodness that will have everyone coming back for more!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Rich, creamy texture coupled with a slight bitterness from the beer
Perfectly interactive dish for gatherings
Versatile with various dippers like bread, vegetables, and fruits

      

Choosing the Right Beer

When selecting a beer for your fondue, opt for a variety that complements the nutty flavors of Swiss and Emmental cheeses. A lager or a pale ale works beautifully here. Avoid overly hoppy beers as their bitterness can overwhelm the other flavors. A maltier beer will add depth, enhancing the cheese's creamy texture and balancing its richness. I often use a local craft brew to give my fondue unique character and a personal touch.

It's also essential to consider the beer temperature. Using beer that is too cold can shock the cheese and prevent it from melting smoothly. Aim for a beer that is at room temperature or slightly chilled so that it blends seamlessly into the melting cheese, allowing for a velvety texture.

Keeping Your Fondue Smooth

To achieve the ideal creamy consistency, ensure you stir continuously throughout the melting process—aim for a low and slow heat. If the mixture becomes too thick, you can add a splash of beer to loosen it up. Conversely, if it’s too thin, continue to heat gently while stirring until it thickens slightly. Watching for a glossy surface is a good visual cue that your fondue is on point.

Another tip is to avoid using pre-shredded cheese. Many brands contain anti-caking agents that can lead to a grainy texture when melted. For the utmost creaminess, grate your cheese fresh and mix it with cornstarch. This not only prevents clumping but also helps in achieving the perfect melt.

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

300g Swiss cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
250ml beer
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Black pepper to taste
Bread cubes, vegetables, and fruits for dipping

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated Swiss and Emmental cheese with the cornstarch. This will help prevent clumping as the cheese melts.

Garlic Infusion

Rub the inside of a fondue pot or a heavy-bottomed saucepan with the halved garlic cloves to infuse flavor.

Combine Beer and Cheese

Pour the beer into the pot and heat over medium-low heat until it begins to simmer. Gradually add the cheese mixture, stirring continuously until the cheese has completely melted.

Add Seasoning

Stir in the lemon juice and season with black pepper to taste. Keep stirring until smooth and creamy.

Serve

Transfer the mixture to a fondue pot. Serve immediately with bread cubes, vegetables, and fruits for dipping.

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, feel free to experiment with different cheeses or types of beer to find your perfect flavor combination!

Perfect Dippers for Fondue

In addition to classic bread cubes, consider offering a variety of dippers. Crunchy vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli add a delightful texture contrast to the rich fondue. For a unique twist, try fruits like sliced apples or pears; their sweetness complements the savory cheese beautifully. It's also fun to have an assortment of dippers so that guests can create their own flavor combinations.

If you want to really step up your dipping game, serve grilled or roasted vegetables. The heat from grilling will enhance their natural sweetness and create an appealing char flavor that melds excellently with the creamy fondue.

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you're planning to serve this fondue at a gathering, you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance. Simply combine the grated cheeses and cornstarch ahead of time, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it's time to serve, just follow the instructions from the beer addition to melting phase—it’s a great way to keep things stress-free during gatherings.

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place the mixture in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a small amount of beer to help restore the creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese for fondue?

Absolutely! While Swiss and Emmental work great, you can also try Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

→ What type of beer is best for fondue?

A medium-bodied beer is recommended; lagers or pale ales typically balance well with the richness of the cheese.

→ How can I make the fondue thicker?

If your fondue is too thin, try adding a bit more cornstarch mixed with water, or allow it to simmer a bit longer to reduce.

→ What should I serve with the fondue?

Bread cubes, blanched vegetables, and fresh fruits are perfect partners. Think baguettes, carrots, and apple slices!