To me, the holidays are all about cozy moments with the people you love… and of course, indulging in the best foods - like chocolate and cheese fondue! Whether you're hosting a chocolate or cheese fondue party, here is the ultimate guide featuring what to dip, plating, etiquette, and more!
If you're planning a cozy night in, a festive dinner party, or a New Year's Eve gathering, chocolate and cheese fondue might be the most fun, interactive, and unexpectedly magical thing you can serve. Fondue night brings everyone together around a communal pot of melted cheese, and it somehow turns a simple meal into a full special occasion. Whether it's your first time making a cheese fondue recipe or you're basically a fondue pro, this guide covers everything you need to know - from the best cheeses for your cheese mixture to tons of great ideas for dippers and add-ons.
The best part? You don't even need a fondue set if you're using The Melting Pot's new at-home kits! And if youre making it from scratch, a heavy-based pan over medium-low heat works beautifully for warm cheese, whether you're melting gruyere cheese, swiss cheese fondue, or a blend with monterey jack. If you want to skip a few steps, The Melting Pot's fondue mixes melt perfectly on the stovetop or in the microwave, and you can still customize them with wine, lemon juice, or your favorite add-ins.
Keep in mind: as an amazon associate I may earn from affiliate links if you grab any tools or fondue gear I recommend, but feel free to use whatever you already have. So next time you want an easy, cozy meal that brings your dinner guests together, fondue is an excellent option. Now let's break it down.
The Best Cheese for Fondue
The heart of fondue is the cheese mixture, and using the right blend makes all the difference. Gruyere cheese gives you that nutty richness, swiss cheese melts beautifully and adds depth, and a milder cheese like monterey jack helps everything stay silky. A splash of dry white wine and a squeeze of lemon juice help stabilize the fondue cheese so it stays smooth instead of clumping.
If you happen to have leftover cheese, store it in an airtight container. You can use it for cheese fries the next day or melt it into a simple salad dressing for a cheesy warm vinaigrette moment. And if you want to use my favorite shortcut, grab that Melting Pot Cheese Fondue Kit at your local grocery store - it is the best shortcut!
What to Serve With Cheese Fondue
Here are the best savory fonduedippers for a cheese fondue dinner, whether you're hosting a big crowd or having a cozy meal with your favorite people.
Carbs (the savory fondue dinner dippers)
French baguettes are the classic choice for swiss cheese fondue, but here are even more options:
- Baby potatoes
- Potato chips (one of my personal favorite things to dip)
- Tortilla chips
- Soft pretzel bites
- Sourdough cubes
- Brioche chunks
Fresh Vegetables
Fresh vegetables balance the richness of the gooey cheese. Try:
- Brussels sprouts (roasted)
- Green beans (blanched)
- Bell peppers
- Cherry tomatoes
- Broccoli, cauliflower, carrots
- Pickles
Proteins
If you want to turn fondue night into the main course, add protein or even try a meat fondue using hot oil or hot broth:
- Sliced steak
- Poached chicken
- Sausage rounds (like andouille or kielbasa)
- Shrimp
Adding a simple salad on the side turns this into a complete dinner party spread.
What to Serve With Chocolate Fondue
Chocolate fondue is always a hit and pairs perfectly with cheese fondue if you're planning a full fondue party. It's also great for special occasions like birthdays or New Year's Eve.
Fruits (the sweet side of fondue night)
- Strawberries
- Banana slices
- Apple wedges
- Pineapple chunks
- dried fruits like mango or pineapple
Sweet Treats
- Brookies
- Pound cake cubes
- Shortbread cookies
- Rice Krispie treats
- Marshmallows
- Biscotti
- Pretzels
Fun Extras
- Crushed peppermint
- Toasted coconut
- Toffee bits
- Chopped nuts
Set everything out in small bowls around your communal pot of chocolate fondue and let your guests mix and match.
Fondue Etiquette (Yes, It's a Thing)
Fondue etiquette is pretty simple:
- Use your fondue fork for dipping, but eat with your regular fork.
- Keep the cheese mixture over medium-low heat so it stays smooth.
- Stir often so the bottom doesn't scorch.
- Don't double dip (unless you're with people who don't care).
Electric fondue pots are great if you host often, but not essential.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're using a classic fondue set, a heavy-based pan, or a simple pot you already own, fondue night is such an easy way to bring people together. It works for special occasions, dinner guests, or even a random Tuesday when you want something comforting. The communal pot of warm cheese, the mix of fresh vegetables and carbs, and the fun of dipping everything you can find… it's honestly one of my favorite foods and one of the most delicious recipes you can share.
Don't forget, you can use the Melting Pot's easy at home fondue kits to make your life even easier - Just microwave or heat on the stovetop - no fondue pot needed!
Recipe
An Easy Dipping Guide for Chocolate & Cheese Fondue
Equipment
- Fondue Pot
- Small Sauce Pan
Ingredients
Melting Pot Classic Cheese Fondue
- pan fried kielbasa sausage rounds
- Mini pickles
- Salty pretzel bites
Melting Pot Turtle Milk Chocolate Fondue
- Brookies
- Strawberries
- Edible cookie dough
Instructions
- Arrange the dippers on a large plate with the fondue on one side of the plate. Add other dippers based on preference. Be sure to serve with fondue forks and napkins.
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