Description
Silky Swiss cheese melts into warm apple cider, creating a luxurious autumn dip perfect for gatherings. Rich flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg complement sharp cheddar, inviting guests to savor each creamy bite of this seasonal delight.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Cheeses:
- 1 cup grated smoked gouda
- 1 cup grated swiss cheese
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
Liquid Base:
- 1 cup apple cider
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup half & half, room temperature
Thickeners and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic
- ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
Instructions
- Carefully grate smoked gouda (/ 226 grams), Swiss (/ 170 grams), and sharp cheddar cheese (/ 170 grams), then sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the shredded cheese mixture.
- Pour apple cider and chicken broth into a medium saucepan, add 2 finely minced garlic cloves, and heat over medium temperature until liquid begins to simmer gently.
- Incrementally incorporate the seasoned cheese blend into the warming liquid, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon to ensure smooth melting and prevent cheese from clumping or burning.
- In a separate small bowl, thoroughly whisk cornstarch with half & half until completely combined and free of lumps.
- Slowly stream the cornstarch mixture into the cheese mixture, stirring consistently to create a silky, uniform texture that coats the back of a spoon.
- Transfer the molten cheese fondue into a preheated fondue pot or slow cooker to maintain optimal serving temperature.
- Accompany the fondue with cubed artisan bread, thinly sliced crisp apples, and lightly steamed vegetable crudités for dipping.
Notes
- Cornstarch acts as a magical thickener, preventing cheese from separating and creating silky smooth texture.
- Chicken broth adds depth and savory undertones to complement the sweet apple cider base.
- Smoked gouda provides rich, smoky complexity that elevates the traditional cheese fondue profile.
- Black pepper introduces a subtle heat and warming sensation perfect for cozy fall gatherings.
- Grating cheeses helps them melt faster and distribute more evenly throughout the liquid.
- Half & half creates a luxurious, creamy consistency that makes dipping irresistible.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 525 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg