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 except for a lot of melted cheese.

In my defense, I blame this on the passage of time rather than illicit substances.

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.

A brief history of fondue

The word “fondue” comes from the French term “fondre,” meaning “to melt.”

That this Swiss dish’s name is French is because it originated in the French speaking area of Switzerland.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Heatproof mat or trivet: Place a heatproof mat or trivet on the table to protect it from the hot fondue pot.

Fondue recipes

These 20 fondue recipes range from cheesy delights to chocolatey goodness.

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:

1. 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.
2. Vegetables: Adding a fresh and healthy touch, vegetables are excellent for dipping in cheese or broth-based 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Charcuterie: Adding a touch of charcuterie to your fondue experience can be a delightful treat. Thin slices of cured meats like prosciutto, salami, or coppa provide a salty and savory contrast to the cheese or broth base.
6. 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.
7. 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:

1. 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. Their natural sweetness and juiciness create a perfect harmony with the melted sweetness.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Dried fruits and nuts: Add a touch of texture and richness with dried fruits and nuts. Dried apricots, figs, dates, or raisins offer a concentrated sweetness, while almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts provide a satisfying crunch.
8. 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.