Fondue with Raclette Cheese

Name: Fondue with Raclette Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 400g Raclette cheese, grated; 200ml dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; A pinch of nutmeg; French bread, cut into cubes; Vegetables (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers) for dipping

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I absolutely love making fondue with raclette cheese because it transforms any gathering into a cozy celebration. There's something special about melting the cheese and dipping crispy bread into it that brings everyone together. I've experimented with various cheeses, but the rich texture and slightly nutty flavor of raclette always win over my guests. It’s a perfect dish for sharing and enjoying those intimate moments. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks alike.

Created by

Maeve Colchester

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:05:34.833Z

During my last fondue night, I decided to bring out the raclette cheese, and I wasn't disappointed. The magical moment of watching the cheese melt into a gooey delight made the experience unforgettable. I love pairing it with fresh vegetables and crispy bread to enhance the flavors, and adding some white wine really elevates the entire dish.

One tip I've learned over the years is to preheat your fondue pot before adding the cheese to ensure it melts evenly. This prevents any clumping and allows for a smoother texture. Trust me, this small step can make a big difference in your fondue experience!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue:
        Rich, gooey melted cheese that's perfect for dipping
Customizable with your favorite dippables like bread and veggies
Creates a fun, interactive dining experience for friends and family

      

Choosing the Right Cheese

The star of this fondue is undoubtedly the raclette cheese. Its creamy texture and complex flavor become beautifully accentuated when melted, making it a fantastic choice for this dish. If you're unable to find raclette cheese locally, Gruyère or Emmental can serve as excellent substitutes. They melt similarly and provide a delightful nutty taste that complements the overall experience.

When purchasing raclette cheese, consider opting for a block rather than pre-grated varieties. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and uniformly, leading to a more satisfying fondue. Aim for a cheese that feels semi-firm yet supple to the touch, as this will ensure it binds well when melted.

The Perfect Dipping Accoutrements

While bread is a classic option, don't overlook the delightful crunch of assorted vegetables for dipping. Broccoli florets or bell peppers not only add vibrant color but also offer a refreshing contrast to the rich, melted cheese. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding pickles or charcuterie for a diverse flavor profile that brings exciting textures to each bite.

To prepare the bread, opt for a crusty French baguette. Cut it into cubes about 1.5 inches in size, ensuring each piece is sturdy enough to stand up to the gooey cheese without disintegrating. You can even lightly toast the cubes in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until just golden; this adds an appealing crispness.

Fondue Finesse: Serving and Pairing

When transferring your fondue pot to the table, consider using a trivet or an alcohol burner beneath it. This helps maintain the ideal melting temperature and prevents the cheese from congealing, ensuring a dreamy dipping experience. I recommend keeping the heat at low to medium-low; high heat can lead to a stringy or burnt bottom layer.

Pairing the fondue with the right beverages can elevate your dining experience. A crisp, dry white wine works well with the richness of the melted cheese. Alternatively, a light-bodied beer or even apple cider can offer a refreshing balance against the creamy texture. Don’t forget to provide fondue forks or long skewers for a fun, interactive dining experience!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Fondue Ingredients

400g Raclette cheese, grated
200ml dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
A pinch of nutmeg
French bread, cut into cubes
Vegetables (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers) for dipping

Make sure to prepare your dippables to enjoy with the fondue!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious raclette fondue:

Prepare the Fondue Pot

Rub the inside of the fondue pot with the halved clove of garlic to infuse flavor.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the pot and heat it over medium heat until it simmers.

Add the Cheese

Gradually add the grated raclette cheese, stirring continuously until it's melted and creamy.

Season the Mixture

Add freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavor.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the pot to the table, and enjoy dipping the bread and vegetables into the melted cheese.

Don't forget to keep the fondue warm for the perfect melting experience!

Pro Tips

For the best experience, ensure all dippers are cut into bite-sized pieces for easy dipping. Experiment with additional flavors by adding herbs or spices to the cheese mixture!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftover fondue, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the fondue in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to achieve a creamy consistency again. Adding a splash of white wine while reheating helps restore its beautiful texture.

Keep in mind that cheese can be finicky when it comes to reheating. If your fondue seems too thick, adding a little warm wine or water can help bring it back to life. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to heat unevenly and can cause the cheese to become grainy.

Variations for an Artisan Touch

For those wanting to infuse a little extra flavor into their fondue, consider mixing in herbs or spices while melting the cheese. Fresh thyme or rosemary can bring an aromatic twist that pairs beautifully with the richness of the raclette. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can also add a delightful warmth without overpowering the base flavor.

For a fun twist on the classic recipe, try adding roasted garlic or truffle oil. Simply blend in one crushed roasted garlic clove or a drizzle of truffle oil just before serving—this can elevate your fondue into a gourmet experience and impress your guests.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

When planning a gathering, feel free to scale this fondue recipe according to the number of guests. As a general rule, estimate about 200g of cheese per person for a generous serving. This allows for indulgent dipping while minimizing leftovers. Adjust the wine and seasoning proportions accordingly; aim for one-quarter of the wine's amount to each 100g of cheese.

If you're entertaining a larger crowd, consider preparing a dual-pot setup, perhaps one with traditional raclette and another with a different cheese variant. This not only provides variety but also keeps the dining experience interactive and fun as guests can sample different flavors at their leisure.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese for fondue?

Yes, you can mix raclette with other cheeses like Gruyère or Emmental for different flavors.

→ What can I use as dippables?

Besides bread, you can dip vegetables, cooked meats, or even fruits like apples.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

You can refrigerate leftover fondue in an airtight container and reheat it gently on the stove.

→ Do I need a special pot for fondue?

While a traditional fondue pot is great, you can use any heavy-bottomed pot that can handle direct heat.