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: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup lager or pale ale; 2 cloves garlic, halved; 1 tsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love hosting gatherings, and nothing brings people together quite like a delicious pot of fondue. This Fondue with Beer and Swiss Cheese is not only comforting but also incredibly flavorful, thanks to the rich beer that enhances the creamy, melted cheese. I often whip this up for friends, and it never fails to impress. The combination of gooey cheese and zesty beer creates a unique dip that pairs perfectly with crusty bread and veggies—a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:46:17.128Z

When I first made Fondue with Beer and Swiss Cheese, I was amazed at how the simple addition of beer transformed the dish. The rich, nutty flavor of the Gruyère cheese combined with the light bitterness of the beer creates an unexpected but delightful pairing. I suggest using a lager for a mild taste or a stout for something more robust—both work beautifully!

One tip I've found is to toss the cheese with a little cornstarch before melting. This helps to create a smooth, creamy texture that won't separate. Every time I serve it, I watch as people gather around, dipping bite-sized pieces of bread and vegetables into the melted goodness, and it never gets old!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Creamy Swiss cheese perfectly balanced with hoppy beer flavors
Great for sharing with friends or family during special occasions
Easy to customize with various dippable items like bread, fruits, and veggies

      

Selecting the Perfect Cheese

When it comes to fondue, the cheese selection is crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor. Gruyère cheese brings a sweet, nutty flavor while Emmental adds a mild, buttery note. These cheeses melt beautifully together, creating a creamy consistency. If you’re looking for a bolder taste, try adding a small amount of aged cheddar or a touch of blue cheese even, but remember that the balance of flavors may shift. Always opt for high-quality cheese for the best melting results.

To prepare the cheese, grate it rather than cubing it. Smaller pieces melt more evenly and prevent clumping. Additionally, tossing the grated cheese in cornstarch, as noted in the instructions, helps create a silky smooth texture instead of a clumpy mess. If you find yourself in a pinch without Gruyère or Emmental, consider Swiss or a good melting cheese like Fontina. Just be mindful of the flavors and textures you bring to your fondue experience.

The Importance of Beer in Fondue

Using beer in fondue not only enhances flavor but also affects the cheese's melting behavior. The carbonation and acidity found in lager or pale ale help to create a creamy consistency and add depth to the overall taste. When using a hoppy beer, the bitterness can complement the richness of the Swiss cheese beautifully. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, try using a non-alcoholic beer or even a vegetable broth mixed with a splash of vinegar for a similar tangy effect.

To ensure the best results, be careful not to let the beer boil. A gentle simmer over low to medium heat allows for a gradual melding of flavors. Watch for small bubbles forming around the edges of the pot, indicating that it's ready for the cheese. If your cheese starts to separate or become grainy, this can often be mitigated by lowering the heat and whisking more vigorously to bring it back together.

Dippable Inspirations

The beauty of fondue lies in its versatility regarding dippers. While crusty bread is a classic choice, consider incorporating a mix of textures and flavors. Fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and blanched broccoli provide a crisp bite that cuts through the richness of the cheese. For added sweetness, you can also include apples, pears, or even pickles to contrast the savory fondue.

If you are serving a larger crowd, I recommend creating a fondue platter with assorted options. Skewered items can add a fun element, making it easier for guests to dip. Ensure that each dipper is cut into bite-sized pieces to allow for quick and clean dipping. Just make sure to keep everything warm; a dedicated warming tray can help maintain the ideal temperature for your fondue, ensuring that everyone enjoys the creamy goodness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started with your fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup lager or pale ale
2 cloves garlic, halved
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have everything, let's melt that cheese!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic cloves. This will infuse a subtle garlic flavor into the cheese.

Mix the Cheese

In a bowl, toss the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheese with cornstarch to coat. This step prevents clumping during melting.

Heat the Beer

Pour the lager into the fondue pot and heat over low to medium flame until just simmering.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture into the beer, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Season and Serve

Add lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the fondue warm with an assortment of dippables.

Enjoy your fondue with friends and family!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like adding a bit of blue cheese for depth or a sharp cheddar for a tangy twist. Always keep the heat low to avoid burning the cheese!

Troubleshooting Tips

If your fondue turns out stringy instead of creamy, it might be due to the cheese not melting properly. To avoid this, make sure the cheese is finely grated, and keep an eye on the heat level to avoid sending it into a boiling frenzy. If you encounter a clumpy texture, a small dash of warm beer while whisking can help smooth it back out.

Sometimes, fondue may taste overly acidic or beer-heavy, especially if your choice of beer has a robust flavor profile. To balance it out, add a touch more lemon juice or a pinch of sugar to mellow the flavors and round out the tanginess. A little experimentation can make a significant difference in achieving a harmonious taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Fondue is best served fresh, but if you're planning for a big gathering, you can prepare some elements in advance. Grate your cheeses and store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you're ready to cook. You can also pre-measure the beer and have your garlic cloves ready, making setup quick and efficient.

If you have leftovers, let the fondue cool completely before transferring it to a sealed container. Store it in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, gently warm it in a fondue pot or saucepan over low heat, stirring in a splash of additional beer or milk to restore creaminess. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this may cause the cheese to separate.

Serving Suggestions

For an enhanced experience, consider pairing your fondue with a selection of complementary drinks. A light, crisp white wine or a mild beer can complement the flavors beautifully. You may also want to offer a side of pickled vegetables or olives to offer a contrasting taste alongside the rich cheese.

For a fun twist, try incorporating flavored oils or spicy sauces for guests to drizzle over their dippers once they've coated them in cheese. This little addition will elevate the flavor profiles and allow everyone to customize their experience. Don't forget to involve your guests in the dipping process, as fondue is about sharing and enjoying the moment together!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While Gruyère and Emmental are traditional, you can mix in cheeses like cheddar or fontina for a personal touch.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Great options for dipping include crusty bread, fresh veggies like carrots and broccoli, or even fruit like apples and pears.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

If you have leftovers, let the fondue cool down, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I make this fondue ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the cheese mix ahead and combine it with beer just before serving.