Fondue with Camembert and Thyme

Name: Fondue with Camembert and Thyme
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 250g Camembert cheese, cut into pieces; 100ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; 1 clove garlic, minced; Black pepper to taste; Baguette, cut into cubes; Steamed vegetables for dipping

Highlighted under: Inspired Meals

I’m always on the lookout for cozy recipes that bring people together, and this Fondue with Camembert and Thyme is a favorite of mine. The creamy, melting cheese paired with fragrant thyme creates an indulgent experience that’s perfect for gatherings. With just the right balance of flavors, this dish invites everyone to dip their favorite bread or vegetables. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it the centerpiece of your next get-together!

Created by

Xenia Radcliffe

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:08:38.103Z

When I first made this Fondue with Camembert and Thyme, I was surprised at how quickly it came together. The key was using high-quality Camembert cheese and fresh thyme, which infused a rich flavor into the creamy mix. I learned that choosing the right wine also elevates the fondue; a dry white wine complements the cheese beautifully, creating a harmonious blend.

I enjoy experimenting with different dippers, but crusty bread and steamed vegetables are my go-tos. The contrast of hot, melted cheese with fresh, crunchy veggies adds to the overall enjoyment, making every bite memorable. This delicious fondue is sure to impress!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy Camembert cheese that melts perfectly
Aromatic thyme adds a unique depth of flavor
Perfect for sharing with friends and family

      

The Significance of Camembert

Choosing the right cheese is crucial for a successful fondue, and Camembert is an excellent choice. Its rich, buttery flavor and creamy texture allow it to melt beautifully, contributing to that silky, indulgent mouthfeel we love in fondues. Unlike harder cheeses, which can be grainy when melted, Camembert achieves a luxuriously smooth consistency, making it the star of the dish. Make sure the Camembert is at room temperature before starting; this will help it melt more evenly and incorporate well with the wine and thyme.

If you're looking to swap out the Camembert for other cheeses, opt for similar soft varieties such as Brie or a good-quality goat cheese. Each will impart its unique character to the fondue. However, remember that they may melt differently; always test a small batch first to find the perfect balance.

Enhancing Flavor with Thyme

Thyme may be a common herb, but in this fondue, it shines, bringing an aromatic complexity that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese. Fresh thyme is highly recommended, as its flavor is more vibrant compared to dried. Adding the leaves early in the process allows their essential oils to infuse the cheese, resulting in a more flavorful fondue. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or even a hint of sage if you’re curious about mixing flavors.

To enhance the overall flavor even further, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a hint of nutmeg as the cheese melts. These subtle additions can elevate the dish, creating a well-rounded taste experience that will make your guests ask for the recipe.

Perfect Pairings and Dipping Choices

When it comes to serving your fondue, the options for dippers are almost limitless. While cubed baguette is a classic choice, consider adding slices of crisp apples or pears for a sweet contrast with the rich cheese. Roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini also make excellent additions, adding freshness and texture to each bite. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding pieces of grilled sausage or marinated olives for a savory twist.

For an easy clean-up, use a fondue pot with a non-stick surface. This prevents the cheese from burning and sticking to the bottom, allowing for a smooth experience from start to finish. Remember to keep your fondue pot over low heat as you serve; this will maintain a consistent temperature without burning the cheese.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a luxurious fondue experience.

Fondue Ingredients

250g Camembert cheese, cut into pieces
100ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 clove garlic, minced
Black pepper to taste
Baguette, cut into cubes
Steamed vegetables for dipping

Make sure to have a variety of dippers ready to enjoy this delicious fondue!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delightful fondue experience.

Prepare Ingredients

Combine the Camembert pieces, white wine, thyme, and minced garlic in a fondue pot.

Heat the Mixture

Place the fondue pot over medium heat and stir constantly until the cheese melts into a smooth consistency.

Season and Serve

Add black pepper to taste and mix well. Serve with cubes of baguette and steamed vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your fondue while it's hot, and have fun dipping!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different herbs and cheeses for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover fondue, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring delicately until it loosens up again. If it appears too thick, you can add a small splash of dry white wine or water to help achieve that creamy consistency once more.

Reheating in the microwave is possible, but use it judiciously; heat in short bursts and stir in between to prevent the cheese from overheating, which can cause it to separate. Taking the time to reheat slowly ensures you preserve that delightful texture and flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

This fondue recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for any gathering size. If you're planning a larger event, simply double or triple the quantities of Camembert and wine, adjusting the thyme and garlic accordingly. As a rule of thumb, use about 100g of cheese for each additional serving, and maintain the same wine-to-cheese ratio for the best flavor balance.

Keep an eye on the melting time as the pot gets fuller; it may take slightly longer for a larger batch to achieve the desired smoothness. Ensure to stir more frequently to distribute heat evenly, preventing any hotspots that could scorch the cheese.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fondue is separating instead of staying beautifully blended, this could be due to overheating. Keeping the heat low is essential, so adjust accordingly if you notice it bubbling too vigorously. If you find it’s already separated, whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a splash of wine to help bind it back together.

Another common issue occurs when the cheese turns grainy. To prevent this, ensure your cheese is fully melted before adding any seasonings. If this happens after serving, try stirring in a bit more wine while over low heat. This should help restore the fondue’s creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute with a mix of Gruyère and Emmental for a different flavor.

→ What if I don’t have a fondue pot?

You can use a heavy-bottomed saucepan and transfer the mixture to a serving vessel.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

→ What are some good dipping options?

Bread, steamed broccoli, carrots, and apples are all excellent choices for dipping.