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: 200g Camembert cheese, cut into small pieces; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves; 1 clove garlic, minced; Bread cubes for dipping (e.g., baguette, ciabatta); Assorted vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)

Highlighted under: Hearty Kitchen

I love making fondue with Camembert and thyme because it creates such a cozy atmosphere, perfect for gatherings. The creamy, rich flavors of the cheese pair beautifully with the earthy notes of thyme, making every bite feel indulgent. Preparing this dish feels like a delightful ritual we share with friends and family, dipping fresh bread and crispy vegetables. It’s a simple yet sophisticated treat that never fails to impress. The aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to come and enjoy a private fondue experience.

Created by

Maribel Hawthorne

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:45:37.510Z

Creating fondue with Camembert and thyme was an experiment that turned into a staple in our home. I tried to balance the flavors by adding a hint of garlic and a splash of white wine, which transformed the dish into a gourmet delight. One tip I discovered is to use a thicker bread for dipping as it holds up better in the warm, gooey cheese.

During our last gathering, I incorporated seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and cherry tomatoes, which added a pop of freshness. The thyme brought an aromatic touch that surprised everyone, and it’s safe to say, this fondue has become an instant hit!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy Camembert blended with aromatic thyme creates a unique flavor.
Perfect for sharing, fostering connection and warmth in every bite.
Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for both casual evenings and special celebrations.

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this fondue is Camembert cheese, cherished for its creamy texture and rich flavor. When selecting Camembert, look for a wheel that feels slightly soft to the touch and has a fresh, almost mushroom-like aroma. This cheese melts beautifully, creating a luxurious dip that coats your bread and vegetables perfectly. If you’re in a pinch, a Brie can serve as a substitute due to its similar texture and flavor profile, but be mindful of its less intense taste compared to Camembert.

Dry white wine plays a critical role in balancing the richness of the cheese. A wine with bright acidity, like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay, enhances the overall flavor and prevents the fondue from becoming too heavy. My go-to choice is a Sauvignon Blanc because it not only contributes a refreshing zing but also complements the earthy thyme beautifully. If you prefer not to use wine, a non-alcoholic alternative could be a mixture of white grape juice and lemon juice, but this will change the flavor slightly.

Perfecting Your Technique

When melting the cheese, patience is key. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring continuously to achieve a glossy, lump-free consistency. If the heat is too high, the cheese may separate, resulting in an unappetizing grainy texture. You want to aim for a slow melt; this typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Should you encounter a gritty texture, try whisking in a bit more wine off the heat to help bring it back together.

As you incorporate the thyme, allow it to infuse into the melted cheese over low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps release the essential oils in the thyme, making each bite more aromatic. Remember, fresh thyme is preferred for a subtler flavor; dried thyme could be overpowering, so if you're using it, reduce the amount by half.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Camembert cheese, cut into small pieces
1 cup dry white wine
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
1 clove garlic, minced
Bread cubes for dipping (e.g., baguette, ciabatta)
Assorted vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)

These ingredients will make the perfect fondue!

Instructions

Here’s how to make your delicious fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

In a medium saucepan, combine the Camembert pieces with the dry white wine and minced garlic. Heat over medium-low until the cheese melts, stirring occasionally to create a smooth consistency.

Add Thyme

Once the cheese is melted and creamy, stir in the fresh thyme leaves. Continue to cook on low heat for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the melted cheese into a fondue pot and serve immediately with an assortment of bread cubes and vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy this delightful fondue with your friends and family!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of cognac or brandy to the cheese mixture just before serving. Additionally, using aged Camembert can enhance the depth of flavor in the fondue.

Serving Suggestions

For an elevated fondue experience, serve this dish with a variety of accompaniments that contrast the creaminess of the cheese. Fresh baguette and ciabatta cubes are classic choices, but don't shy away from including crispy vegetables like celery sticks, radishes, or even blanched asparagus. I often like to include tart apple wedges, which provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese and enhance the overall flavor profile.

To keep your fondue warm throughout your gathering, consider using a candlelit fondue pot or a burner designed for such dishes. This not only maintains the perfect melting temperature but also adds a charming ambiance to your table setting. Don't forget to equip your guests with long fondue forks or skewers, which allow them to dip without risking burns from the hot cheese.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover fondue can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating can be a bit tricky since the cheese may solidify; to revive it, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in a splash of white wine or milk as needed to achieve the desired creamy consistency once more, ensuring you don’t overheat, which can lead to separation.

If you anticipate having leftovers, consider offering the fondue as part of a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich later on! Simply spread some of the cooled fondue onto slices of bread; grill until golden and crispy. This way, you transform your fondue delight into a new, exciting meal while preventing waste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese for fondue?

Yes, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like Brie or even a mix of cheeses to create your unique flavor.

→ How do I reheat leftover fondue?

Place the leftover fondue in a saucepan and gently reheat it over low heat, stirring continuously until it is smooth again.

→ What should I serve with fondue?

Bread cubes are traditional, but you can also serve sliced fruits, vegetables, or pretzels for a fun dipping experience.

→ Is fondue safe to eat if it cools down?

While it’s best enjoyed warm, you can still eat cooled fondue, but the texture may change and become thicker.