Fondue with Mild Blue Cheese

Name: Fondue with Mild Blue Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g mild blue cheese, crumbled; 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200ml dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Cubed crusty bread; Assorted fresh vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, broccoli); Apple slices; Cooked potatoes (small-sized)

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I've always had a fondness for the creamy, rich taste of cheese fondue, and this Mild Blue Cheese variation has quickly become a favorite in my household. The unique flavor profile of mild blue cheese adds an unexpected twist that surprises and delights every time we gather around the pot. I love serving it with a variety of dippables, creating a fun and interactive dining experience. Whether you're hosting a cozy night in or entertaining a few friends, this fondue is sure to impress and keep everyone coming back for more.

Created by

Maeve Colchester

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:39:35.753Z

On a chilly evening, I decided to experiment with my classic cheese fondue recipe. I was intrigued by the idea of incorporating mild blue cheese, known for its rich, creamy texture and mild tang. The result was incredible — the subtle earthiness of the cheese paired perfectly with crisp vegetables and crusty bread. I wish I'd tried this sooner!

One tip that really elevated the flavor was using a mix of white wine and fresh garlic when melting the cheese. It adds richness and depth, creating an irresistible dip. This has become a staple in my home, and I can't wait to share it with you!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The comforting warmth of melted cheese creates a delightful atmosphere.
Mild blue cheese adds a unique and surprising flavor twist.
Perfect for entertaining, everyone can customize their dipping experience.

      

The Importance of Cheese Selection

Choosing the right blue cheese is paramount for achieving the desired flavor profile in this fondue. Mild blue cheese offers a creamy texture and a subtle tang that won't overpower the dish. I recommend looking for artisanal varieties that are less pungent, providing just the right amount of character without overwhelming the palate. Brands with a varied aging profile can offer unique depths of flavor, enhancing your fondue experience.

Gruyère cheese is essential for that classic fondue texture. Its smooth melting properties contribute to a rich, velvety consistency. If you cannot find Gruyère, Emmental cheese is a suitable substitute, though it may lack the nutty undertones. Mixing these cheeses helps create a balance that allows the mild blue cheese to shine through without being masked by stronger flavors.

Techniques for a Creamy Fondue

The technique of tossing the cheese with cornstarch before adding it to the wine mixture is a crucial step. This prevents clumping and ensures a silky texture when melted. If your fondue does seize or become grainy, a splash of wine or lemon juice can help restore creaminess. Stir continuously over gentle heat to maintain an even temperature and prevent the cheese from cooking too quickly, which can lead to separation.

When heating the wine, aim for a simmer rather than a full boil; this preserves the delicate flavors of the cheese. A too-high temperature can cause the proteins to overstretch and lose their emulsifying properties. You'll know it's ready when small bubbles form around the edge of the pot. Patience is key, as fondue requires a tender hand to develop that luxurious texture.

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

200g mild blue cheese, crumbled
200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200ml dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Dippers

Cubed crusty bread
Assorted fresh vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, broccoli)
Apple slices
Cooked potatoes (small-sized)

Make sure to prepare a variety of dippers to really enhance the experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Fondue Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove to impart a subtle flavor. Discard the garlic afterward.

Combine the Cheese

In a bowl, toss the crumbled blue cheese and grated Gruyère with cornstarch. This helps to create a smooth and creamy fondue.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the pot and heat it over medium until it begins to simmer.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the pot, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Season with black pepper to taste.

Serve

Once smooth, serve immediately with your choice of dippers and enjoy!

Make sure to keep the fondue warm as you dip!

Pro Tips

For a smoother consistency, ensure your cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the pot. You can also experiment with different cheeses based on your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

This fondue pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers that offer contrasting textures and flavors. I enjoy serving it with crusty bread—baguette or ciabatta—cut into bite-sized cubes. The crunchy exterior and soft interior create an enjoyable bite when dipped into the warm cheese. Additionally, crisp vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli add freshness and color to your platter.

For an unexpected twist, consider offering sweet dippers like apple slices. The sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory cheese, providing a balance that many find surprising and delightful. If you want to enhance the experience, drizzle some honey over the dippers to add a sweet touch that complements the saltiness of the blue cheese.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftover fondue, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, I recommend using a double boiler to gently warm it back to its creamy state, as direct heat can cause the cheese to become stretchy or grainy. Stir in a bit of white wine to revitalize the consistency and flavor for an enjoyable second serving.

Since fondue is a wonderfully social dish, consider making the cheese mixture ahead of time. Combine the crumbled blue cheese and Gruyère with cornstarch and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, simply whisk together the wine and lemon juice and follow the melting steps. This makes it an excellent option for entertaining, allowing you to enjoy your guests without feeling rushed in the kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a custom flavor profile.

→ What if I don't have a fondue pot?

You can use a regular saucepan on the stove and transfer to a serving dish to keep warm.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

Substitute gluten-free bread or veggies as dippers to keep it gluten-free.

→ Can I store leftover fondue?

Yes, you can refrigerate leftovers and reheat gently on the stove, but the consistency may vary.