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Apple Cider Cheese Fondue Recipe

Apple Cider Cheese Fondue Recipe

4.8 from 6 reviews

This Apple Cider Cheese Fondue is a delectable twist on classic fondue, combining the sweet and tangy flavors of apple cider with a rich blend of smoked gouda, Swiss, and sharp cheddar cheeses. Perfect for cozy gatherings, this warm, creamy dip pairs wonderfully with bread, apples, and vegetables, making it an inviting comfort food for fall and winter evenings.

Ingredients

Scale

Liquids and Aromatics

  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/4 cup half & half (room temperature)

Cheeses

  • 1 cup grated smoked gouda
  • 1 cup grated Swiss cheese
  • 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

Thickening and Seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat Base Liquids: Turn on a crock pot to a low warming setting or preheat a fondue pot to maintain heat once the fondue is ready. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the apple cider, chicken broth, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
  2. Prepare Cheese Blend: While the liquid simmers, grate the smoked gouda, Swiss, and sharp cheddar cheeses. Place them in a medium mixing bowl, add the coarse ground black pepper, and toss thoroughly to combine evenly. Set this cheese mixture aside.
  3. Add Cheese to Liquid: Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering liquid, a small handful at a time. Stir each addition gently and continuously until the cheese is fully melted and smooth before adding more. This ensures a creamy texture without clumps.
  4. Incorporate Thickener: In a small measuring cup, whisk the cornstarch into the room temperature half & half until fully dissolved. Slowly pour this mixture into the cheese fondue while stirring constantly to evenly thicken the fondue and achieve a glossy, smooth consistency.
  5. Finish and Serve: Once the fondue is shiny and lumps-free, transfer it to your heated crock pot or fondue pot to keep warm. Serve immediately with your choice of dippables such as crusty bread cubes, apple slices, and fresh vegetables for dipping.

Notes

  • Use room temperature half & half to prevent curdling when adding to hot cheese mixture.
  • Toss cheese with black pepper beforehand to evenly distribute flavor.
  • Adding cheese gradually ensures smooth melting without clumping.
  • Keep the fondue warm on low heat to maintain the best texture throughout serving.
  • This recipe pairs beautifully with crisp apples, crusty bread, and vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider fondue, cheese fondue recipe, smoked gouda fondue, autumn appetizer, warm cheese dip