Name: Apple Cider Cheese Fondue Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup apple cider; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 cup grated smoked gouda; 1 cup grated Swiss cheese; 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/4 cup half & half, room temperature; 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper

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Introduction

This Apple Cider Cheese Fondue is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining smoky gouda, Swiss, and sharp cheddar with the subtle sweetness of apple cider. Perfect for cozy gatherings, this creamy fondue is both flavorful and easy to prepare in just 20 minutes.

A close-up of a white ceramic bowl filled with smooth, creamy light yellow cheese sauce, speckled with small black pepper bits. A woman's hand with blue nail polish is holding a light-colored wooden skewer, dipping a golden, breaded cube into the cheese sauce, with cheese dripping from it. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, surrounded by sliced red apples with their white insides showing, some crunchy nuts, and pieces of light textured bread. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup apple cider
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
1 cup grated smoked gouda
1 cup grated Swiss cheese
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup half & half, room temperature
1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Turn on your crock pot or fondue pot to heat so it’s ready when the cheese mixture is done.
Step 2: Grate all the cheeses, then combine them in a medium bowl along with the black pepper. Toss gently until evenly mixed, and set aside.
Step 3: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring the apple cider, chicken broth, and minced garlic to a simmer.
Step 4: Add the cheese mixture to the simmering liquid a small handful at a time, stirring each addition thoroughly until completely melted before adding more. Continue until all the cheese is incorporated.
Step 5: In a measuring cup, whisk the cornstarch into the half & half until smooth, then pour it into the pot while stirring constantly. Stir until the fondue is shiny and smooth.
Step 6: Transfer the fondue to your heated crock pot or fondue pot to keep warm, then serve immediately with your favorite dippers.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.
If you prefer a stronger smoky flavor, increase the amount of smoked gouda slightly.
Try adding a splash of apple brandy or Calvados for an adult twist.
Use day-old French bread, apple slices, or pretzel bites as dippers for varied texture and flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a splash of broth or half & half if needed to restore the creamy texture.

How to Serve

A white wooden stick holds a small cube of light golden-brown bread that is dipped into thick, creamy pale yellow cheese with small black pepper specks, dripping back into a red bowl filled with the cheese. The bowl is surrounded by light cream-colored bread pieces and apple wedges with white flesh and red skin, all set on a white marbled surface with blurred colorful objects in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this fondue without a crock pot or fondue pot?

Yes, you can keep the fondue warm on the stovetop over very low heat, stirring regularly to prevent it from sticking or separating.

What are the best dippers to serve with apple cider cheese fondue?

Classic dippers include cubes of crusty bread, apple slices, baby potatoes, and crunchy vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. Pretzels also pair wonderfully with the smoky flavor.