Deep Fried Cheese Fondue

Name: Deep Fried Cheese Fondue
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, shredded; 200g cheddar cheese, shredded; 150ml dry white wine; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 clove garlic, halved; Black pepper, to taste; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Salt, to taste; Oil, for deep frying

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making Deep Fried Cheese Fondue for gatherings and cozy nights in. The process of dipping golden, crispy morsels into a gooey, cheesy center is nothing short of magical. Combining various cheeses enhances the flavor profile, making every bite a delight! This fondue is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it also brings everyone together around the table, creating unforgettable memories. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare with just a few ingredients, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T19:30:30.381Z

When I first tried Deep Fried Cheese Fondue at a small bistro, I was instantly hooked. The crispy exterior paired with the bubbling cheese center created a fusion of flavors and textures that left my taste buds dancing. Experimenting with different cheese blends, I've discovered that a combination of Gruyère and cheddar provides a rich and creamy result that's simply irresistible.

To achieve the perfect fry, I learned that keeping the oil at the right temperature is key. Too hot, and the cheese may burn; too cold, and you’ll end up with soggy bites. A kitchen thermometer is invaluable for monitoring the temperature, ensuring that each piece is fried to golden perfection.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy outer layer that encases gooey cheese goodness
Perfectly blend of rich and sharp cheese flavors
Great for sharing at parties or cozy nights in

      

Key Techniques for Perfectly Fried Cheese

Achieving the ideal texture for your Deep Fried Cheese Fondue relies heavily on how well you bread the cheese. To ensure a crispy outer layer, it's crucial to dredge the cheese in all-purpose flour before dipping it into the beaten eggs. This creates a glue-like base for the breadcrumbs, which are essential for that crunchy finish. Make sure each piece is completely coated; otherwise, gaps may lead to leakage during frying.

When preparing your frying oil, heat it to precisely 180°C (350°F) for optimal frying conditions. This temperature ensures that the outer layer becomes golden brown while the cheese inside melts perfectly. If the oil is too cool, the breading can become soggy. If it's too hot, the exterior will brown too quickly, leaving the cheese insufficiently melted—aim for a temperature range, and use a thermometer for accuracy.

Choosing the Right Cheese

The combination of Gruyère and cheddar in this fondue is not just a delicious pairing; each cheese plays a specific role in flavor and texture. Gruyère offers a nutty, creamy flavor that melts exceptionally well, while cheddar adds a sharpness that balances the richness. For a twist, consider substituting half of the Gruyère with an aged gouda or a smoky cheese, which can lend a delightful complexity to the flavor profile.

Ensure the cheeses you choose are fresh and high-quality. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect meltability. Instead, opt for block cheese that you grate yourself for a smooth, velvety consistency in the fondue that holds up beautifully during frying.

Ingredients

For the Cheese Fondue

200g Gruyère cheese, shredded
200g cheddar cheese, shredded
150ml dry white wine
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 clove garlic, halved
Black pepper, to taste

For the Breading

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
Salt, to taste

For Frying

Oil, for deep frying

Additional Ingredients

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Fondue

In a saucepan, rub the inside with the garlic halves. Add the white wine and heat gently until warm, then slowly stir in the Gruyère and cheddar cheeses until melted and smooth. Once melted, mix in the cornstarch and season with black pepper. Remove from heat.

Bread the Cheese

Allow the cheese mixture to cool slightly, then scoop small portions onto a tray and freeze for about 30 minutes until firm. Once firm, roll each portion in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.

Deep Fry the Cheese

In a deep frying pan, heat the oil to 180°C (350°F). Fry the breaded cheese balls in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve

Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces or fresh vegetables for an extra crunch.

Enjoy Your Fondue!

Pro Tips

To elevate the flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cheese mixture. Serve with crusty bread or fresh veggies for dipping.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its flexibility with make-ahead options. You can prepare the cheese mixture a day in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just ensure you allow it to reach room temperature before rolling and breading. Once formed and breaded, the cheese balls can also be frozen. Place them on a baking sheet to firm up, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months. Fry directly from frozen without thawing to maintain their shape and quality.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, you can bake them in an oven preheated to 190°C (375°F) until heated through and crispy again, about 10 minutes. This method revives their crunch without the added oil of frying.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Deep Fried Cheese Fondue, consider offering a variety of dipping sauces and fresh vegetables to accompany the cheesy bites. Sauces like marinara, spicy ranch, or a tangy mustard blend provide a delightful contrast to the rich cheese. Fresh vegetables, such as sliced bell peppers, carrots, or cherry tomatoes, not only add a refreshing crunch but also balance out the indulgence of the fried cheese.

You can also elevate your serving presentation by arranging a beautiful cheese board alongside your fondue. Include an assortment of cured meats, olives, and crackers for palate variety. This makes for an interactive dining experience and encourages everyone to get involved in the dipping!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with favorites like mozzarella or fontina.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

Use vegetable broth instead of wine and check that your cheeses are vegetarian-friendly.

→ What dip options go well with this fondue?

A tangy mustard or a fresh salsa complements the cheesy flavor beautifully.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture and bread the balls ahead of time. Just freeze and fry when ready to serve.