Description
This creamy Apple Cider Cheese Fondue combines the tart sweetness of apple cider with a rich blend of smoked gouda, Swiss, and sharp cheddar cheeses. Perfect for cozy gatherings, this fondue features a smooth, velvety texture balanced with a hint of garlic and black pepper, served warm from a crockpot or fondue pot for an inviting and interactive dining experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Fondue Base
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
Cheese Blend
- 1 cup grated smoked gouda
- 1 cup grated Swiss cheese
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
Thickening & Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup half & half, room temperature
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
Instructions
- Heat Equipment: Turn on your crock pot or fondue pot to warm so it’s ready to keep the fondue hot once prepared.
- Prepare Cheese: Grate all the cheeses and place them in a medium mixing bowl. Add the black pepper and toss well to combine evenly. Set aside this cheese mixture.
- Simmer Liquid Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the apple cider, chicken broth, and minced garlic. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer to meld flavors.
- Melt Cheese Gradually: Add the cheese blend to the simmering liquid a small handful at a time. Stir continuously until each addition is completely melted before adding the next. This gradual melting ensures a smooth fondue without clumps.
- Thicken Fondue: In a separate measuring cup, whisk the cornstarch into the half & half until smooth. Pour this mixture into the saucepan while stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the cheese fondue is shiny, smooth, and has thickened slightly.
- Serve Warm: Transfer the prepared fondue to the heated crock pot or fondue pot. Keep it warm and serve immediately with your choice of dippers like bread cubes, sliced apples, or vegetables.
Notes
- Grating the cheese yourself helps it melt more evenly and quickly for a smoother fondue.
- Keeping the fondue warm in a crock pot or fondue pot prevents it from solidifying and maintains the perfect dipping consistency.
- Use room temperature half & half when mixing with cornstarch to avoid lumps in the fondue.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Serve with sturdy dippers such as crusty bread, apple slices, or blanched vegetables to complement the flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: apple cider cheese fondue, smoked gouda fondue, Swiss cheese fondue, cheddar cheese dip, cozy fall appetizer, crockpot fondue recipe
