Melted magic: Easy fondue recipes
These easy fondue recipes feature the best savory and sweet delights for your next fondue party. There’s cheese fondue, chocolate fondue, vegan fondue and more.
Fondue. From humble ingredients come a rich and melty concoction. It’s more than just a dish – it’s an experience best shared.
My first fondue experience was at a 70s party I hosted in the 90s. At the time, the two decade gap seemed much more significant.
To be honest, I don’t remember much more than a lot of melted cheese.
In my defense, I blame this on the passage of time rather than illicit substances. also common in the 70s.
I’ve been thinking about fondue a lot lately. Perhaps spurred by nostalgia as I near my 50th birthday. Perhaps spurred by a love of cheese and chocolate.
Regardless, you are the winner of this preoccupation with this collection of savory and sweet fondue recipes.
Let the dipping begin!
Contents
A brief history of fondue
The word “fondue” comes from the French term “fondre,” meaning “to melt.” And if your mind is melting because this Swiss dish’s name is French – well, mine is too.
The earliest known recipe of a dish resembling fondue dates back to the late 17th century (source).
My further research on origin stories, including those that state the dish was created by Swiss peasants, primarily in the mountainous regions, who would gather stale bread and melt cheese to create a simple and hearty meal, may be more fiction that fact (source).
Regardless of origin, the humble fondue would later enter the hearts and bellies of many a global citizen, in part due to the Swiss Cheese Union, a marketing organization established in 1914, which played a significant role in promoting fondue as a national culinary icon (source).
Of course, those of us born in later years will also recall the hold fondue had on the 1970s, where the ubiquitous fondue pot was a party table feature.
The experimentation of the 70s extended to fondue where new flavors and varieties- such as chocolate- became popular.
While fondue’s popularity went the way of bell bottoms, it’s still a feature of game day gatherings and other events like Christmas and New Years.
Fondue equipment
For fondue to be its most authentic, you will want the following equipment:
- A fondue pot: A specialized pot designed for fondue. Back in the day, these were usually made of ceramic, stainless steel, or cast iron. Make life easier for yourself and buy an electric fondue pot.
- A fondue burner: Only for the retro fans using original pots. This will keep the fondue pot warm during the meal. It can be a gel burner, liquid fuel burner, or electric burner, depending on the type of fondue pot being used.
- Fondue forks: Long forks with heat-resistant handles and prongs designed for dipping and cooking food in the fondue pot. Fondue forks typically have different colors or markings to help guests identify their forks during communal dining.
- Plates and Napkins: Provide individual plates or small dipping plates for each guest to place their cooked food. Napkins are essential for wiping off excess cheese or oil from the fondue forks.
- Heatproof mat or trivet: Place a heatproof mat or trivet on the table to protect it from the hot fondue pot.
Fondue recipes
Ready to eat? These 20 fondue recipes range from cheesy delights to chocolatey goodness.
Fondue recipes
Savory fondue recipes
This beer cheese fondue blends sharp cheddar and beer for a tasty treat.
This cheddar cheese fondue recipe is very tasty and easy to make. The cheddar alternative to Gruyère works well and tastes just as good.
This delicious fondue recipe made with cheddar cheese, beer, garlic, mustard powder and pepper tastes great with meats, breads, fruits and veggies.
Serve this Swiss cheese appetizer with bread, tomatoes, mushrooms, shrimp--just about everything goes great with fondue.
This French onion cheese fondue is a blend of three of the tastiest and best melting cheeses in the world. Its then kicked up a notch with a big batch of deeply caramelized onions.
Gruyère and emmental cheeses come together in this gluten-free cheese fondue recipe for an interactive and velvety cheese appetizer that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It comes together in just about 10 minutes and is so easy to make.
Full disclosure- I do not like goats' cheese.
However this goat cheese fondue recipe is so popular, I decided to include it for those of you who do not share my goats' cheese aversion.
Have you tried fondue in the Instant pot? If not, you're in for a treat. This three cheese fondue is a cheesy delight.
This delicious Irish potato fondue combines creamy, melted Irish cheese with potatoes and bacon for a hearty and flavorful dip that is perfect for sharing.
This pepperjack fondue will bring a little heat to your fondue night. Perfect for dipping bread or vegetables in this rich slightly spicy cheese sauce.
This easy Swiss cheese fondue recipe makes a velvety smooth sauce, perfect for dipping breads, veggies, and all kinds of bite-sized deliciousness.
Southwest fondue, with peppers, onion, sharp cheese, and beer, give this fondue a ton of flavour. It's a colourful departure from the traditional.
Swiss cheese fondue is a classic appetizer for the ultimate evening in. From enjoying a romantic dinner, warming up after a day of skiing or snowboarding, or hosting a fondue party.
Being vegan doesn't mean missing out on fondue goodness. Try this earthy and robust crowd-pleasing vegan beer cheese fondue perfect for holiday get-togethers, game day, or anytime you want to add a fun communal twist to dinner at home.
This winter cheese board with German beer cheese fondue is full of delicious, fresh flavors.
Sweet fondue recipes
This velvety smooth pool of rich, creamy chocolate has subtle but satisfying notes of peanut butter in every delicious bite. It is so good that you will want to savor it down to the very last drop.
This simple and decadent chocolate fondue recipe is made with six ingredients in less than 10 minutes. Serve it as a special dessert with your favorite chocolate fondue dippers.
Love is in the air when this sweet chocolate fondue for two hits the table. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a simple, yet decadent dessert treat for you and your sweetie. Have kids? The fondue recipe doubles easily to make it a family affair.
Chocolate fondue has never been easier. Made in individual cups in a slow cooker, it's fast and easy to make any time.
If you love chocolate, then you’ll love dipping into this easy to make chocolate fondue recipe. This chocolate marshmallow fondue is rich, creamy and delicious.
This crème anglaise fondue is seriously easy to make and absolutely delicious. It’s really a thin custard that you jmix together and heat until thickened.
This decadent and dairy-free chocolate dessert is super simple to make for a fun interactive family dessert or date night experience at home.
Love dips? Check out these savory dip recipes and these dessert dips.
Fondue dippers
Savory dippers
When it comes to savory fondue, there are numerous delectable options to dip into that melty goodness. Here are some popular choices:
- Bread: Classic and versatile, cubes of crusty bread are a staple for fondue. Opt for a variety of bread types like French baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough.
- Vegetables: Adding a fresh and healthy touch, vegetables are excellent for dipping in cheese fondue. Try raw or blanched vegetables like broccoli florets, cauliflower, cherry tomatoes, baby carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini slices. They provide a satisfying crunch and balance out the richness of the fondue.
- Seafood: If you’re a fan of seafood, consider dipping options like cooked shrimp, scallops, or bite-sized pieces of firm fish like salmon. Their delicate flavors pair wonderfully with creamy cheese fondues.
- Potatoes: Boiled or roasted potatoes offer a hearty and comforting option for dipping. Cut them into bite-sized pieces or wedges and cook them until tender.
- Charcuterie: Adding a touch of charcuterie to your fondue experience can be quite the treat. Thin slices of cured meats like prosciutto, salami, or coppa provide a salty and savory contrast to the cheese or broth base.
- Pickles and olives: For a burst of tanginess, include a selection of pickles such as cornichons, pickled onions, or pickled peppers. Additionally, a bowl of briny olives adds a Mediterranean flair to your fondue spread.
- Roasted or grilled vegetables: For a different twist, consider offering roasted or grilled vegetables alongside your fondue. Options like roasted mushrooms, grilled asparagus, or eggplant slices provide smoky flavors and delightful textures.
The beauty of fondue lies in its versatility, so feel free to experiment and mix and match your favorite savory ingredients. The key is to choose foods that complement the type of fondue you’re serving and cater to the preferences of your guests.
Sweet dippers
When it comes to sweet fondue, there are endless possibilities to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Here are some delightful options for dipping into a sweet fondue:
- Fresh fruits: Sliced fruits are a classic choice for sweet fondue. Strawberries, bananas, pineapple chunks, apple slices, grapes, and raspberries all pair beautifully with a luscious chocolate or caramel fondue.
- Pound cake or Angel food cake: Cut cubes or slices of light and fluffy pound cake or angel food cake for a delightful textural contrast. The cake’s sponge-like texture absorbs the sweet fondue and provides a satisfying bite.
- Marshmallows: Soft and pillowy, marshmallows are an ideal treat for dipping into chocolate fondue. Choose regular-sized marshmallows or try mini marshmallows for bite-sized indulgence. They can be enjoyed as they are or lightly toasted over a flame for added flavor and a hint of caramelization.
- Cookies: Offer an assortment of cookies for dipping pleasure. Biscotti, ladyfingers, shortbread cookies, or butter cookies all make excellent companions to sweet fondue. Their buttery and crumbly textures add a delightful crunch to each dip.
- Pretzels: The combination of sweet and salty is a winning one. Dip small pretzel twists or sticks into the sweet fondue for a delightful contrast of flavors. The saltiness of the pretzel complements the sweetness of the fondue in a uniquely satisfying way.
- Waffles or pancakes: For a breakfast-inspired twist, consider offering bite-sized pieces of freshly made waffles or pancakes. Their soft and fluffy texture pairs wonderfully with sweet fondues, adding a touch of indulgence to your fondue experience.
- Dried fruits: Add a touch of texture and richness with dried fruits. Dried apricots, figs, or dates offer a concentrated sweetness.
- Churros or donut holes: For a decadent and indulgent option, offer churros or bite-sized donut holes as dippers. Their doughy and slightly crispy exteriors are perfect for scooping up warm chocolate or caramel fondue.
Dip into the wonderful world of fondue recipes by savoring the savory delights of melted cheese followed by the sweet symphony of chocolate and other goodness.
Love bite-sized deliciousness? Try these one bite appetizers and bite-sized desserts.