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: 250g Camembert cheese, rind removed and cubed; 100ml dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper, to taste; Bread cubes, for dipping; Fresh vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots), for dipping; Sliced apples, for a sweet contrast

Highlighted under: Modern World Food Favorites

I love indulging in a warm and creamy fondue, and this Fondue with Camembert and Thyme is my favorite. The rich flavor of the Camembert, combined with the earthy notes of thyme, creates a delightful experience that I can’t resist. Perfect for cozy gatherings or an intimate dinner, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare and sure to impress. The aroma fills the room, inviting everyone to gather around, dip their favorite bread or vegetables, and enjoy a comforting culinary journey together.

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-11T15:57:35.385Z

When I first tried making fondue at home, I was surprised by how easy it was to achieve that restaurant-quality taste. Using a high-quality Camembert made all the difference, and the addition of thyme brought a lovely freshness to the rich cheese. I discovered that slowly melting the cheese over medium heat ensures a smooth consistency, avoiding that grainy texture that can occur when heat is too high.

Additionally, it’s essential to prepare a variety of dippables. I love offering crusty bread, crunchy veggies, and even some sliced apples for a unique touch. Each bite becomes a new combination of flavors, making every mouthful a delightful experience I can't get enough of.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Decadent, creamy Camembert melts beautifully for the perfect fondue experience
Fragrant thyme adds a unique herbaceous twist that elevates the dish
Ideal for sharing with friends and family during special occasions or casual get-togethers

Choosing the Right Camembert

Selecting a good quality Camembert is crucial for achieving an exceptional fondue. Look for Camembert that has a creamy texture and a slightly pungent aroma, indicating it's ripe and ready to melt. It's advisable to choose a cheese that's made from raw milk for richer flavor, but pasteurized options work well too. Aim for a cheese whose rind is intact and not too dry, as this will contribute to a smooth melting consistency.

When preparing the cheese, you want to remove the rind to prevent any grainy texture in the fondue. This step is essential because the rind can alter the mouthfeel and may not blend well with the creamy cheese once melted. Cube the cheese into uniform pieces to ensure consistent melting, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the wine.

The Role of Wine in Fondue

Using dry white wine is a key aspect of this fondue recipe. The acidity in wine not only complements the richness of the Camembert but also helps to achieve the desired smooth texture. I recommend using a wine with a crisp flavor like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, as they enhance the overall taste without overpowering the delicate cheese. Avoid sweet wines, as they can negatively affect the flavor profile of the fondue.

When heating the wine with the cheese, maintaining a medium heat is essential. Bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer allows the Camembert to melt gradually without separating, which can happen if the heat is too high. Stirring continuously will help achieve a glossy, homogenous blend, ensuring every dip comes with a balanced flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delightful fondue that everyone will enjoy.

Fondue Ingredients

250g Camembert cheese, rind removed and cubed
100ml dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste
Bread cubes, for dipping
Fresh vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots), for dipping
Sliced apples, for a sweet contrast

Make sure to prepare your dippers ahead of time!

Steps

Follow these simple steps to create a delightful Fondue with Camembert and Thyme.

Prepare the Cheese

In a medium saucepan, combine the cubed Camembert cheese and dry white wine. Add the halved garlic for added flavor.

Melt the Cheese

Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the cheese has melted smoothly. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Add Seasoning

Once melted, stir in the fresh thyme leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Transfer the fondue to a fondue pot or a heatproof bowl. Serve immediately with bread cubes, fresh vegetables, and sliced apples for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious Fondue with Camembert and Thyme!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, try adding a splash of brandy or a hint of nutmeg to the melted cheese.

Make-Ahead Tips

This fondue can be partially prepared ahead of time to make for a stress-free gathering. You can cube the Camembert and prepare any dipping items, like bread cubes or vegetables, earlier in the day. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to heat the cheese, which helps to save time when your guests arrive.

While it's best to serve fondue immediately after preparation, you can reheat leftovers gently over low heat. If the mixture thickens upon cooling, adding a splash of wine or a little water during reheating will help restore its creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful fondue experience, consider offering an array of dipping options beyond just bread and vegetables. Sliced apples add a refreshing sweetness that pairs beautifully with the rich cheese, while crispy crackers provide a satisfying crunch. You can also include cured meats like prosciutto, which contrast nicely with the creaminess of the fondue.

Presentation can also elevate your fondue night; try using a colorful assortment of vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, radishes, or asparagus to create a vibrant platter. Lighting candles and playing soft music can further enhance the cozy atmosphere as everyone gathers to enjoy this shared dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! Feel free to mix in other soft cheeses like Brie or Gruyère for different flavor profiles.

→ What can I dip in fondue?

Bread, vegetables, and fruits like apples or pears work well. You can also try pretzels for a fun twist!

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I make this fondue in advance?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and melt it just before serving.