Fondue with Brie and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Brie and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz brie cheese, rind removed and cut into pieces; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Fresh bread, cut into cubes (for dipping); Vegetables (like broccoli or carrots, for dipping)

Highlighted under: Oven Kitchen

I absolutely adore making fondue, and this recipe for Fondue with Brie and Garlic is one of my all-time favorites. The creamy, melted cheese combined with the aromatic garlic creates an indulgent dip that's perfect for sharing with friends and family. I love the way the rich flavors mingle together, and no one can resist dipping fresh bread into this gooey delight. It's a fantastic way to elevate any gathering, and I guarantee it will impress everyone at the table!

Created by

Winifred Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:35:35.192Z

Making this Fondue with Brie and Garlic is an experience I cherish. I remember the first time I prepared it for a cozy gathering; the aroma of melting cheese and roasting garlic filled the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. The pairing of brie with garlic really brings out the best in one another, creating a dip that's both luxurious and comforting.

One trick I learned is to add a splash of white wine to the mixture. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the cheese the right consistency for dipping. Trust me, an extra twist of freshness really transforms the final dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent flavor of melted brie perfectly complemented by roasted garlic
Easy to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser
Perfect for pairing with crusty bread or fresh vegetables

The Role of Cheese

Brie cheese is the star of this fondue, bringing a wonderfully creamy texture and mild flavor that melts beautifully. Removing the rind is essential, as it can be tough and disrupt the smooth consistency of the dip. When selecting your brie, look for wheels that are ripe, with a slight give when gently pressed, ensuring a rich, luscious melt that will blend seamlessly with the garlic and wine.

Melted brie tends to have a buttery taste, which pairs harmoniously with the savory notes of roasted garlic. For an added twist, consider substituting some of the brie with a sharp cheddar or a tangy goat cheese, which can introduce complex flavor layers while still maintaining that wonderful gooeyness.

Perfecting the Garlic

Mincing the garlic allows it to distribute evenly throughout the fondue, infusing the entire dish with flavor. If you're worried about the garlic being too pungent, try roasting the cloves first. Roasted garlic becomes sweet and mellow, compelling in flavor while still providing that aromatic backbone traditionally associated with fondue. Just take a bulb, wrap it in foil, and roast at 400°F for about 30-35 minutes, then mash and add to your cheese mixture.

Timing is crucial when adding garlic; incorporate it early in the melting process to allow its flavors to soften. Stir it continuously to prevent burning, as darkened garlic can introduce a bitter taste that overshadows the fondue's richness.

Dipping Suggestions

While bread is the classic choice for dipping, I love to mix it up with fresh vegetables as well. Crispy broccoli or crunchy carrots make fantastic alternatives that not only add nice color to your platter but also pair marvelously with the creamy cheese. Lightly blanch these veggies in boiling water before serving for a tender-crisp texture that enhances the overall eating experience.

For a more elaborate fondue spread, consider adding bite-sized pieces of cooked chicken, cured meats, or even fruits like pear or apple slices. These ingredients offer additional flavor contrasts and can elevate your fondue experience to gourmet levels, making your gathering even more memorable.

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

8 oz brie cheese, rind removed and cut into pieces
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Fresh bread, cut into cubes (for dipping)
Vegetables (like broccoli or carrots, for dipping)

Enjoy your delicious fondue!

Instructions

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brie, minced garlic, white wine, and lemon juice. Stir occasionally until the cheese is almost fully melted.

Thicken the Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the melted cheese and keep stirring until it thickens, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the fondue to a serving dish or a fondue pot to keep it warm. Serve immediately with fresh bread cubes and vegetables for dipping.

Don't forget to enjoy with friends!

Pro Tips

For an added depth of flavor, try experimenting with different types of cheese or add some herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mix.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the joys of fondue is how well it can be prepared in advance. If you're hosting a gathering, consider making the fondue mixture a few hours before your guests arrive. Store it in the refrigerator and warm it up gently on the stove or in the fondue pot, stirring frequently to maintain that silky texture. Make sure not to heat it too quickly to avoid separating the cheese.

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When reheating, use low heat and readjust with a splash of white wine or a little cream if it becomes too thick, ensuring it maintains its creamy consistency before serving again.

Troubleshooting Fondue

If your fondue turns gritty or separates while melting, this could be due to overheating or the cheese not being finely enough chopped. To remedy this, turn down the heat and stir more frequently to allow the mixture to melt evenly. If separation occurs, quickly whisk in a bit more cornstarch mixed with cold water to help bind the ingredients together again.

Another common issue is preventing the cheese from clumping. Always toss your cheese with cornstarch before incorporating it into the mixture. This helps to absorb excess moisture and prevents clumps from forming in your fondue pot.

Scaling the Recipe

This fondue recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your gathering size. For larger groups, simply double the ingredients, keeping the ratios the same. However, be cautious about the pot size and keep your pot on the stove or a medium heat setting to prevent overheating, as a larger batch can take longer to melt uniformly.

For smaller portions, you can halve the ingredients without sacrificing flavor. Just ensure you have a small pot for cooking, as using a giant pan may lead to uneven melting or burning of the cheese.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cheeses?

Yes! Feel free to combine brie with other soft cheeses like Camembert or Gouda for different flavor profiles.

→ What if I don't have white wine?

You can substitute white wine with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version of the fondue.

→ How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftover fondue, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and gently reheat before serving.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator, then gently reheat it before serving.