Fondue with Cheddar and Mustard

Name: Fondue with Cheddar and Mustard
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 100g shredded Gruyère cheese; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Fresh bread, cut into cubes (for serving); Vegetables, like broccoli and carrots, for dipping

Highlighted under: Cozy Collection

I absolutely love making Fondue with Cheddar and Mustard for gatherings and cozy nights in. The combination of creamy cheddar and tangy mustard creates a delightful experience that pleases everyone. It's perfect for dipping with crusty bread and fresh veggies. The best part is that it's surprisingly easy to prepare! With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, I can whip up a delicious pot of fondue that’s sure to be a hit. Trust me, your friends and family will be clamoring for more after the first dip!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-01-12T05:45:34.230Z

When I first tried Fondue with Cheddar and Mustard, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors melded together. The sharpness of the cheddar sets the perfect stage for the mustard's tangy notes, creating a rich, satisfying dip. I served it at a small gathering, and it was gone in minutes! The secret to a smooth fondue is to ensure your cheese is finely grated; it helps it melt evenly without clumping.

One memorable time was when I paired the fondue with apple slices and pretzel bites. The crunchy texture of the pretzels contrasted nicely with the creamy fondue. I also suggest adding a splash of white wine for a special touch; it elevates the flavor and adds depth. Whatever you choose to dip, this fondue will be a highlight on your table!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy cheddar blended with tangy mustard gives an unexpected twist.
Perfectly smooth texture that's ideal for dipping.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion!

      

The Cheese Selection

The choice of cheese is crucial for achieving the perfect fondue texture and flavor. Sharp cheddar adds a rich and robust taste, while Gruyère provides a creamy mouthfeel that enhances the overall experience. If you're looking for a different flavor profile, feel free to experiment by substituting the Gruyère with a fontina or Emmental cheese, which offer a more nutty undertone. Just be mindful of maintaining the proportions to ensure a smooth result.

Using freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties can make a significant difference. Pre-shredded cheese is often coated with anti-caking agents, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best results, grate your cheese just before using it to achieve that perfectly gooey texture that's essential in fondue.

Dipping Delights

While crusty bread cubes are traditional, feel free to diversify your dipping options. Fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli, carrot sticks, or even apple slices bring a refreshing contrast to the creamy fondue. You can also include bite-sized pieces of cooked sausage or shrimp for a heartier option, elevating your fondue experience into a complete meal.

If you're hosting a larger group, consider creating a fondue platter that features various dipping items arranged artfully around the pot. This not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also allows guests to mix and match flavors according to their preferences. I love adding seasoned pretzel bites for that extra crunch!

Serving and Storing Tips

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh and warm. To keep your pot warm during serving, consider using a candle or a small flame beneath the pot. However, be cautious and ensure the heat is not too high, as overheating can cause the cheese to separate or become gritty. Stirring occasionally helps to maintain a smooth consistency as well.

If you have leftover fondue, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of wine or broth to restore its creamy texture. Just be sure to stir continuously to prevent it from turning rubbery.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

200g shredded sharp cheddar cheese
100g shredded Gruyère cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, halved
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh bread, cut into cubes (for serving)
Vegetables, like broccoli and carrots, for dipping

Make sure to have plenty of dipping items!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delectable fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the cut side of the garlic to infuse flavor.

Combine Ingredients

In the pot, combine the white wine and lemon juice, then heat over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the grated cheddar and Gruyère cheese to the pot, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Add Mustard

Stir in the Dijon mustard until well combined. Keep the fondue warm.

Serve

Serve immediately with bread cubes and vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious fondue with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For a smoother fondue, always grate your cheese rather than using pre-packaged shredded cheese, which may contain anti-caking agents that can affect the melt.

Fondue Variations

Don't hesitate to get creative with your fondue recipe. You can add herbs like thyme or fresh chives for an aromatic kick, or even a dash of hot sauce for an unexpected heat. A splash of beer can also be an excellent alternative to wine, adding depth and a different flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the cheddar.

For a unique twist, consider incorporating different cheeses altogether, such as a blue cheese for a bold flavor, or a smoked cheese for a hint of smokiness. Each of these variations can transform your fondue into a completely new experience, keeping your gatherings fresh and exciting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fondue turns out too thick, stir in a bit more wine or broth until it reaches your desired consistency. On the other hand, if it becomes too thin, you can quickly fix this by incorporating a bit of cornstarch mixed with water—this will help thicken it back up as you keep it on low heat.

Another common problem is curdling. If your cheese mixture starts to look grainy, it’s important to lower the heat immediately. Gradually whisking in more wine while stirring continuously can sometimes save your fondue from being ruined, bringing it back to a smooth state.

Make-Ahead Tips

For those planning a cozy evening, preparing your cheese mixture in advance is a great time-saver. You can mix your cheeses with the Dijon mustard and garlic, and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before heating, which helps it to melt evenly.

When building your fondue arsenal, consider keeping your favorite dippables prepped and ready to go in the fridge. Having a variety of items ready to dip can elevate the experience, allowing guests to indulge in a personalized fondue feast without any last-minute stress.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Fontina or Havarti for different flavors.

→ What can I dip in fondue?

Bread cubes, vegetables, meats, and even fruits like apples or pears work great.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop with some additional wine or water.

→ Is fondue gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free bread or dippers, this fondue can be gluten-free!