Fondue with Camembert and Thyme

Name: Fondue with Camembert and Thyme
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Camembert cheese, chopped; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Family Seasonal Food Ideas

I love enjoying fondue during cozy nights in, and this Fondue with Camembert and Thyme takes the experience to another level. The rich, creamy Camembert pairs perfectly with the aromatic thyme, creating a delightful dip for crusty bread or veggie dippers. I find that the unique blend of flavors, along with the gooey texture, makes every bite feel indulgent. Plus, it's a fun dish to share with family and friends, sparking conversations and laughter around the table!

Created by

Genevieve Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:53:35.921Z

Creating this Fondue with Camembert and Thyme was a delightful journey for me. I experimented with various herbs and cheeses, but the pairing of thyme with the creamy Camembert struck the right balance of flavor and aroma. As I melted the cheese, the kitchen filled with an incredible aroma that promised warmth and comfort, perfect for a gathering.

I learned that adding a splash of white wine not only enhances the flavor but helps achieve that silky smooth texture we all crave in fondue. Serving it alongside some rustic bread and fresh vegetables provides the ideal vehicles for scooping up this decadent treat!

Why You'll Love This Fondue
Creamy Camembert cheese with aromatic thyme for a rich flavor
Perfectly melted, inviting texture that's irresistible
Great for sharing at gatherings or a cozy night in

The Star Ingredient: Camembert

Camembert cheese is the heart of this fondue. Its rich and buttery flavor transforms the dish into a luxurious experience. When selecting your Camembert, look for a wheel that is soft but not overly runny, as this will melt beautifully when combined with the wine and seasonings. Aim for a cheese that is at room temperature before starting; this will facilitate even melting and enhance its creamy texture.

The combination of Camembert with white wine not only aids in achieving the right consistency but also enhances the flavor profile of the fondue. Opt for a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, which balances the richness of the cheese without overpowering it. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, replace the wine with vegetable broth, though it will shift the flavor slightly.

Building Flavor with Thyme and Garlic

Fresh thyme is a key player in this recipe, adding a vibrant, aromatic note that complements the creamy Camembert. When chopping thyme, try to release the oils by pressing down with a knife; this will intensify its flavor. If fresh thyme is unavailable, dried thyme can be used, but reduce the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Garlic makes a significant impact on the flavor. Mince it finely so it blends seamlessly into the cheese and enhances the overall taste without standing out too much. For a milder garlic flavor, consider lightly sautéing the minced garlic in a small amount of oil before adding it to the cheese mixture—a technique I often use for a subtler base.

Perfecting the Fondue Consistency

Achieving the right consistency is crucial for a successful fondue. When melting the cheese, keep the heat on low to medium to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy. Stir continuously to ensure it melts evenly and doesn't stick to the bottom of the pot. The mixture should be glossy and thick enough to coat your dippers without being too liquid. A typical melting time ranges from 5 to 10 minutes, so patience is key.

If your fondue turns out too thick, you can gently stir in a bit more warm white wine, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it is too thin, allow it to cook a bit longer on low heat while stirring constantly. Using a fondue pot or a slow cooker helps keep it warm and at the right consistency throughout your gathering.

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

200g Camembert cheese, chopped
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

Serve with various dippers like crusty bread, cut vegetables, or apples.

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese

In a fondue pot or saucepan, combine the chopped Camembert cheese, white wine, minced garlic, and chopped thyme. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring gently until the cheese starts to melt.

Achieve the Right Consistency

Once the cheese is melted, continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the fondue pot to a table warmer or an open flame, ensuring it stays warm. Serve immediately with your choice of dippers.

Enjoy the delightful experience of dipping and sharing!

Pro Tips

For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or a splash of brandy to the cheese mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your fondue with a variety of dippers to enhance the experience. Crusty bread is a classic choice, but consider adding blanched vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or carrot sticks for a colorful and nutritious twist. I also love using small cubed potatoes or apple slices for an interesting contrast in flavors and textures.

For an interactive element, set up a fondue station at your table with various dippers and let guests choose their favorites. This not only encourages everyone to join in but also makes for a fun and engaging dining experience.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to host a gathering, consider preparing your fondue mix ahead of time. You can combine the cheese, white wine, garlic, and thyme, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. On the day of your event, simply reheat the mixture gently on the stove over low heat until melted and smooth, saving you time and stress.

If you end up with leftovers, it's easy to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use a double boiler or gently warm in a saucepan, adding a splash of wine or broth to restore its creamy consistency.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making fondue is that the cheese can seize or become grainy if overheated. To avoid this, keep the heat low and stir continuously while the cheese melts. If you notice it starting to seize, removing it from the heat immediately can sometimes help. You can also whisk in a tablespoon of warm white wine to smooth it out gently.

Additionally, if your fondue lacks flavor, it may need more seasoning. Adjust the salt, pepper, or even add a splash more of white wine to enhance the taste. Always make sure to taste as you go, allowing for adjustments to tailor the fondue to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely! While Camembert is lovely, brie or even a mix of cheeses can work beautifully.

→ What can I use as dippers?

Crusty bread, fresh vegetables, apples, and even cooked meats are great choices.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently before serving again.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

You can try using dairy-free cheese alternatives, but note that the consistency and flavor may differ.