Fondue with Raclette Cheese

Name: Fondue with Raclette Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g raclette cheese, grated; 200ml dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tsp cornstarch; Fresh bread, cubed; Boiled potatoes, sliced; Pickles and other dippables

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I think of a cozy evening with friends, nothing beats the warmth of a bubbling pot of raclette cheese fondue. I love how it brings everyone together around the table, dipping fresh bread and veggies into that melting deliciousness. The rich, nutty flavor of raclette combined with a splash of white wine creates a truly indulgent treat. I always say, the secret lies in using high-quality cheese and keeping the heat just right to achieve that velvety texture. Let me share this wonderful recipe with you!

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:04:14.850Z

One chilly evening, I decided to gather some friends for a fondue night, and raclette cheese was the star of the show. I chose a high-quality raclette that melted beautifully and had a robust flavor that paired perfectly with the accompaniments. To my delight, the combination of fresh bread, boiled potatoes, and crunchy pickles elevated the experiences beyond expectations.

As I heated the cheese, I kept a close watch to ensure it melted evenly, stirring occasionally to maintain that creamy consistency. A splash of white wine not only enhanced the flavor but also helped achieve the perfect texture for dipping. This method truly celebrates the joy of sharing!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Inviting and interactive dining experience
Creamy, savory flavor profile that satisfies
Easily customizable with your favorite dippables

      

The Role of Raclette Cheese

Raclette cheese is the star of this fondue, bringing a rich, creamy texture that is essential for a successful melt. This semi-hard cheese melts beautifully due to its balanced fat content, giving your fondue that luxurious consistency. When selecting your raclette, try to find a higher fat content version for the best results, as it will enhance the creaminess and overall mouthfeel of the dish.

For those who want to explore alternatives, consider using Gruyère or Emmental if raclette isn't available. However, be aware that they may yield a slightly different flavor profile. Mixing these cheeses can create interesting new dimensions; just ensure to maintain equal parts to keep the melting characteristics similar.

Step-by-Step Heat Control

Note that maintaining the right temperature is crucial when melting cheese. Too high a heat can scorch the cheese, leading to a gritty texture. Ideally, melt the cheese on medium heat, adopting a gentle stirring motion until you achieve a smooth, glossy consistency. This should take around 5 to 8 minutes once you add the cheese to the pot. If the mixture becomes too thick, simply add a splash of wine to loosen it without losing flavor.

Using a fondue pot with a steady flame is beneficial. If you're using a stovetop pot, consider transferring to a heat-retaining stand once ready to serve. This preserves the temperature of your fondue as you leisurely partake in the dippables without risking the cheese hardening.

Creative Dipping Options

The dippables you choose can significantly enhance the fondue experience. Besides the traditional cubed bread, venture into different types of bread or crackers, like crusty baguettes or sourdough, which offer a delightful chewy contrast against the creamy fondue. A selection of vegetables like blanched broccoli or carrot sticks can also complement the richness of the cheese, providing a freshness that balances the dish.

If you're looking to elevate your fondue to new culinary heights, consider adding charcuterie items like cured meats. They can add a salty note that further enriches the flavor profile. Also, don't overlook seasonal produce; roasted mushrooms or grilled asparagus can add both texture and flavor, making each bite an adventure!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your perfect raclette fondue.

Fondue Ingredients

400g raclette cheese, grated
200ml dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tsp cornstarch
Fresh bread, cubed
Boiled potatoes, sliced
Pickles and other dippables

Make sure to have some nice dippers ready for the fondue!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious raclette fondue.

Prepare the Fondue Pot

Rub the inside of your fondue pot with the halved garlic cloves for added flavor. Discard the garlic after rubbing.

Melt the Cheese

In the pot, combine the grated raclette cheese and dry white wine. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously to melt the cheese evenly.

Thicken the Mixture

Once the cheese is melted, mix the cornstarch with a tiny bit of wine to create a slurry. Stir this into the cheese mixture to help it thicken.

Serve

Transfer the pot to the table and keep it warm over a low flame. Serve with cubed bread, slices of boiled potatoes, and pickles.

Enjoy the fondue while it’s warm and share the love with friends!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, consider incorporating herbs or spices into the cheese mixture to enhance the flavor. Fresh thyme or a pinch of nutmeg can create exciting variations.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning a gathering, you can prep your cheese mixture ahead of time. Combine the grated raclette cheese and wine, then refrigerate. On the day of your event, simply reheat the mixture on the stove, stirring gently until everything melts back together. This not only saves time but also allows for a smoother serving experience.

You can also prepare your dippables in advance. Slice your bread and vegetables and store them in airtight containers. Just be sure to keep them fresh—add a damp paper towel to the container for vegetables to maintain crispness without wilting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fondue appears too thick after adding cornstarch, don’t worry! This can happen if the cheese cools too much. Just reheat gently, stirring in a bit more wine until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too runny, you can mix in a small amount of cornstarch slurry again to help thicken it.

Should your cheese become grainy, it’s often due to too high a temperature during melting. Switch to a lower heat and whisk frequently to try to bring it back together. If it doesn’t improve, consider starting with a new batch while lowering the heat during the initial melting process.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftover fondue, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a couple of days. Just be sure it cools completely before sealing. Reheating is straightforward; gently warm it over medium-low heat, adding a splash of wine or cream to restore the creamy texture as it heats up again.

For future fondue parties, consider doubling the recipe but be cautious about pot size as a larger quantity will require more careful heat management. This way, you can enjoy the extra servings while creating memorable moments with loved ones.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, while raclette is traditional, you can mix it with Gruyère or Emmental for a different flavor profile.

→ What should I serve with raclette cheese fondue?

Traditionally, it's served with crusty bread, boiled potatoes, and pickles, but you can also add veggies like broccoli or mushrooms!

→ How can I keep the fondue warm?

Use a small fondue burner or a slow cooker set on low to maintain the cheese's temperature without burning it.

→ Can I make fondue ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the cheese and wine mix in advance and heat it just before serving.