Fondue with Camembert and Thyme

Name: Fondue with Camembert and Thyme
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Camembert cheese, cut into small pieces; 100g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 garlic clove, halved; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Bread cubes, vegetables or sliced apples for dipping

Highlighted under: Authentic Global Cuisine Favorites

I absolutely love indulging in a rich and creamy cheese fondue, especially when it features flavorful ingredients like Camembert and fresh thyme. This recipe is a wonderful way to elevate your next gathering or cozy night in. The combination of smooth melted cheese paired with the herby aroma of thyme creates a gourmet experience that’s both comforting and delicious. Grab your favorite bread or veggies to dip in, and let this fondue become the star of the evening!

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:31:35.240Z

When I first attempted making fondue at home, I was nervous about achieving that perfect creamy texture. After many trials, I discovered that using Camembert cheese, with its naturally earthy flavor, brings a delightful richness that pleases everyone's palate. Pairing it with fresh thyme adds a hint of sophistication that makes the dish truly memorable.

The key to a successful fondue lies in the slow melting process; I recommend using a double boiler to maintain consistent heat without burning the cheese. This not only ensures a smooth blend but also enhances the dish's overall flavor profile. Enjoy your culinary creation!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The luxurious blend of Camembert and aromatic thyme creates an irresistible flavor.
Warm, melted cheese is perfect for dipping fresh bread and vegetables.
Perfect for romantic evenings or entertaining guests with a gourmet touch.

      

Crafting the Perfect Fondue

The key to a delightful cheese fondue lies in the quality of the cheeses you choose. Camembert provides that creamy texture and earthy flavor, while Gruyère adds a nutty depth that balances perfectly with the herbal notes of thyme. For an alternative, consider using Brie instead of Camembert or mixing in a bit of Emmental for extra richness. Just remember, the cheeses should be at room temperature before you begin; this allows them to melt evenly and smoothly without clumping.

When melting cheese, the heat is critical. Keeping the fondue pot on low heat ensures a smooth, creamy consistency without overheating and risking separation. If you notice the cheese starting to bubble too vigorously, reduce the heat immediately to avoid a grainy texture. I find that stirring continuously as I add the cheese is crucial for achieving that glossy, fondue-perfect blend.

Dippable Delights

While fresh bread is a classic choice for dipping, consider an array of dippables to elevate your fondue experience. Crusty baguette pieces are excellent, but you can also experiment with lightly blanched vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower florets, which provide a nice contrast in texture. Sliced apples or pears can add a fresh, sweet element that complements the richness of the cheese beautifully.

For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds on your dippables for added crunch and flavor. Just make sure to serve the fondue warm, as this keeps the cheese gooey and delectable. If you anticipate leftovers, reheat gently on a low flame, stirring frequently to restore that silky texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a mouthwatering fondue experience.

Fondue Ingredients

200g Camembert cheese, cut into small pieces
100g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 garlic clove, halved
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Bread cubes, vegetables or sliced apples for dipping

Make sure to have plenty of dippable items ready!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make a creamy and flavorful fondue.

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, combine the Camembert and Gruyère cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove. Then, pour in the white wine and lemon juice, heating gently over low heat.

Melt the Cheese

Once the wine is warm, gradually add the cheese mixture, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Add thyme leaves as it melts.

Serve and Enjoy

Keep the fondue warm on low heat, and serve with assorted dippables like bread cubes, vegetables, or apples.

Enjoy dipping your favorite items into the warm and creamy cheese fondue!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add a splash of brandy or a pinch of nutmeg into the melted cheese for added depth of flavor.

Ingredient Role Breakdown

Each ingredient in this fondue has a purpose. The white wine not only adds acidity that balances the richness of the cheese, but it also influences the melting process. A dry wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, is recommended to avoid sweetness that might clash with the savory flavors. The lemon juice enhances that acidity and helps maintain an ideal consistency, preventing the cheese from becoming too thick.

Thyme brings an aromatic freshness that elevates the overall flavor profile. You can also experiment with different herbs; rosemary could lend an earthy note, while chives would add a delicate onion flavor. Just be sure to add these fresh herbs just before serving to preserve their vibrant flavor.

Fondue Variations and Tips

To introduce different flavors into your fondue, consider adding ingredients like roasted garlic or a splash of brandy for added depth. If you're feeling adventurous, a bit of crushed red pepper can introduce a subtle heat that complements the creamy cheese beautifully. Always taste your mixture as you go, so you can adjust seasonings according to your preference.

If you wish to scale the recipe for a larger gathering, simply maintain the same ratios of cheese and wine, ensuring you use a larger pot. A larger surface area can help keep your fondue warm and gooey for longer. Just remember to serve it with a variety of dippables to cater to all tastes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese for fondue?

Yes! You can mix different cheeses according to your taste. Try using Emmental or Fontina for a different flavor profile.

→ What should I serve with fondue?

Bread cubes, fresh vegetables, and sliced fruits like apples or pears work wonderfully for dipping.

→ How can I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Be sure to grate the cheese finely and mix it with a little cornstarch before melting to ensure smooth consistency.

→ Is it safe to reheat leftover fondue?

Yes, you can gently reheat leftover fondue, but do it slowly over low heat to avoid separating the cheese.