Fondue with Cheddar and Mustard

Name: Fondue with Cheddar and Mustard
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g sharp Cheddar cheese, grated; 100g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 cup white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 clove garlic, halved; Fresh black pepper, to taste; Bread, vegetables, and fruits for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore making fondue, especially this Cheddar and mustard version! The rich, smooth cheese combined with a little tang from the mustard makes it incredibly addictive. Whenever I have friends over, this recipe always takes the spotlight – it’s so easy to prepare and brings everyone together. I often set out an array of dippables, letting everyone create their perfect bite. The best part? It's a fun and interactive dining experience that encourages great conversations around the table.

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:07:17.256Z

When I first experimented with fondue, I knew I wanted something both comforting and with a little kick. That's when the idea of combining cheddar with mustard hit me. The flavor it brings is truly game-changing!

As I was perfecting this recipe, I realized that incorporating a splash of white wine not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve that velvety texture. Every time I serve it, I’m reminded of the joy and laughter that come with sharing a lovely meal.

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Creamy cheddar cheese with a zesty mustard twist
Perfect for a cozy gathering or a fun date night
Easily customizable with various dippables

      

The Importance of Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheese is crucial for achieving the perfect fondue. The combination of sharp Cheddar and Gruyère creates a flavorful base with a great melt. Sharp Cheddar provides a rich, creamy texture, while Gruyère adds nuttiness and depth. Make sure to use high-quality cheese; pre-grated cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the melting process. For a twist, consider using smoked Gouda or a tangy blue cheese to diversify the flavor profile.

Grating the cheese yourself instead of buying it pre-packaged can significantly improve both texture and taste. Freshly grated cheese melts more evenly and avoids clumping. Use a box grater or food processor to achieve a fine texture and mix for a harmonious blend. If your cheese ends up too thick after melting, adding a splash more white wine can help loosen it and bring back that luscious texture.

Perfecting Your Dippings

What you choose to dip can make your fondue experience all the more delightful. Traditional options like crusty bread, fresh vegetables, and fruits such as apples or pears each bring unique tastes that complement the cheese. For a gourmet twist, consider offering sliced sausages, pretzel bites, or even pickled vegetables that can cut through the creaminess of the cheese. Each dipper can offer a contrasting texture or taste that elevates the entire dish.

Don't forget to prepare your dippables ahead of time! If you’re using bread, slice it into bite-sized cubes or triangles for easy grabbing. For vegetables, blanching or roasting can enhance their flavor, adding a subtle smokiness that pairs beautifully with the Dijon mustard in the fondue. Arranging your dippables on a large platter allows guests to mix and match their combinations, encourages creativity, and fosters conversation.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g sharp Cheddar cheese, grated
100g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 cup white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 clove garlic, halved
Fresh black pepper, to taste
Bread, vegetables, and fruits for dipping

Now that you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start preparing your fondue!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot or a heavy saucepan with the halved garlic clove for flavor.

Mix the Cheese

In a bowl, toss the grated cheese with cornstarch. This helps prevent clumping.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the pot and heat over medium until it's warm but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the warm wine, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Add Seasoning

Stir in the Dijon mustard and season with black pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the pot to a fondue burner and serve with your chosen dippables!

Enjoy your fondue fresh and warm with your favorite dippables!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a hint of cayenne pepper when melting the cheese.

Making Fondue Ahead of Time

Fondue is largely about the experience of melting and sharing, but that doesn't mean you can't prepare a portion of it in advance. You can grate the cheeses and toss them with cornstarch a day ahead, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps them fresh and ready to use when you're ready to make the fondue.

Once the cheese is melted and you've added everything else, you can keep it warm for an extended period if you have a fondue pot with a burner. If you find that it thickens too much while sitting, simply reheat it gently, adding a little wine to restore creaminess and consistency.

Troubleshooting Cheese Fondue

If your fondue separates and becomes grainy, don't panic! This can happen if the cheese is added too quickly to the wine. Make sure to add the cheese gradually and stir continuously to allow for proper melting. If it's already separated, whisking in a bit more white wine can help bring it all back together. You may also try adding a little more cornstarch, which acts as an emulsifier.

Sometimes, the flavor may end up being too sharp or strong. If this happens, you can balance it by stirring in a bit more Dijon mustard or a splash of cream to mellow the cheese's intensity. Experimenting with additional spices or garnishes can also help tailor the flavor to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cheese for this recipe?

While you can, low-fat cheese may not melt as smoothly and can affect the overall texture of the fondue.

→ What can I use as dippers?

Bread cubes, fresh vegetables, fruits like apples and pears, or even soft pretzels work beautifully!

→ How can I store leftover fondue?

Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving again.

→ Is this fondue gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free dippers, this fondue recipe is entirely gluten-free!