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 garlic, halved; 1 tsp cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Assorted sliced vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and pickles)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making fondue with raclette cheese, as it brings friends and family together around the table for a cozy experience. There’s something magical about melting cheese and serving it alongside crusty bread and vegetables. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a winter evening, sharing conversation and laughter. The creamy consistency of melted raclette combined with a touch of white wine creates a dynamic flavor that nobody can resist. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a special date night in, ensuring every dip is delicious.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:04:13.197Z

Each time I prepare fondue with raclette cheese, I enjoy experimenting with different dippers. One time, I paired the melted cheese with pickled vegetables, and the tangy contrast was sensational. Using a good quality raclette enhances the overall flavor, so I always opt for a brand that's well-regarded. The key is to melt the cheese slowly to achieve that perfect gooey consistency.

In my experience, adding a splash of white wine not only helps the cheese melt evenly but also adds a wonderful depth of flavor. I suggest trying a dry white wine that you enjoy drinking. This fondue is versatile; feel free to customize the dippers according to your preferences. Enjoy the fun of sharing and dipping!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Indulgently creamy texture that's perfect for sharing
Versatile dipping options to cater to every taste
A delightful centerpiece for any gathering

      

The Art of Melting Raclette Cheese

Melting raclette cheese requires a gentle touch to achieve the ideal creamy consistency. It's best to start with medium heat to allow the cheese to soften without burning. Use a wooden spoon to stir the mixture slowly and constantly, ensuring the cheese melts evenly. The moment the cheese starts to shimmer and becomes glossy, you know you're on the right track. If it becomes too thick, you can add a splash more of white wine to loosen it up.

The quality of the raclette cheese plays a significant role in the fondue's overall flavor. Look for high-quality Swiss raclette that has a rich, nutty aroma and a semi-soft texture. If you can't find raclette, a melty cheese like Gruyère or Fontina can be substituted, but it might alter the fondue’s traditional flavor profile. Keep in mind that adding different types of cheese can offer a unique twist.

Choosing the Right Dippers

To create a balanced fondue experience, it's essential to select a variety of dippers that complement the rich, creamy cheese. Crusty bread is a classic choice, and I recommend a hearty French baguette or sourdough for added texture and flavor. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes for optimal dipping—this way, you get a perfect cheese-to-bread ratio with each bite.

For a fresh crunch, consider using an array of sliced vegetables. Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and pickles add contrasting flavors and textures. Roasted or blanched vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli florets, provide another delicious option. Experimenting with different dippers can enhance the overall fondue experience and cater to dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

400g raclette cheese, grated
200ml dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tsp cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Assorted sliced vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and pickles)

These fresh ingredients will bring your fondue to life!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a perfect raclette cheese fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove to infuse it with flavor. Discard the garlic afterwards.

Melt the Cheese

In a separate saucepan, combine the grated raclette cheese and dry white wine over medium heat. Stir until the cheese melts smoothly.

Thicken the Fondue

Mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water and stir it into the melted cheese mixture. Keep stirring until it thickens slightly and is smooth.

Season and Serve

Add freshly ground black pepper to taste. Transfer the cheese mixture to the fondue pot and serve with bread cubes and assorted vegetables for dipping.

Now you’re ready to enjoy a delicious and interactive meal!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, try mixing in some chopped herbs or spices to the melting cheese. Experiment with different dipping items, like apples or cured meats, to elevate your fondue experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning a gathering, you can make the cheese mixture ahead of time. Simply prepare the melted cheese and let it cool slightly before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the fondue over low heat, stirring in a little extra wine to restore its creamy texture. Avoid reheating too quickly to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy or separated.

Any leftover fondue can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To repurpose it, you can turn it into a delightful pasta sauce. Just add cooked pasta to the reheated fondue and toss until well coated for a quick and creamy meal.

Troubleshooting Common Fondue Issues

One common issue when making cheese fondue is a lumpy texture caused by overheating the cheese. If this happens, try to reduce the heat and stir in a small amount of additional white wine gradually. This can help to smoothen out the mixture. If the cheese appears too oily, you may have used an incorrect cheese ratio, so next time consider adjusting the cheese-to-wine ratio or include a bit of cornstarch to improve the emulsion.

Sometimes the fondue may thicken too much as it cools. If you find yourself in this situation, simply add warm wine or water gradually while stirring to return the fondue to the desired consistency. A few drops at a time can make all the difference, so take it slowly for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

While raclette is traditional, you can mix in Gruyere or Emmental for a different flavor profile.

→ What type of bread is best for fondue?

A crusty bread like a baguette or sourdough works best, as it holds up well when dipped.

→ Can I make fondue without alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute the wine with vegetable broth or a non-alcoholic wine.

→ How should I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.