Fondue with Camembert and Thyme

Name: Fondue with Camembert and Thyme
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large wheel of Camembert cheese; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 clove garlic, halved; Juice of 1 lemon; Crusty bread, cut into chunks; Vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, etc.)

Highlighted under: Authentic Kitchen

I absolutely love indulging in a warm, gooey fondue, and this Fondue with Camembert and Thyme takes my fondness to a whole new level. The creamy, rich texture of the Camembert blends beautifully with the earthy notes of fresh thyme, creating a delightful experience for the senses. I can’t think of a better dish to share with friends or family on a cozy evening, as it brings everyone together around a table, dipping crusty bread and crunchy vegetables into the melted goodness. Let’s get fondue-ing!

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:27:35.170Z

When I first tried this fondue, I was amazed by how the Camembert melted into a silky dip with just the right amount of flavor. The gentle infusion of thyme adds an aromatic touch that completely elevates the dish. I remember enjoying it with some toasted baguette slices and sliced crisp apples—a combination that works surprisingly well.

One key tip I discovered is to use a fondue pot that distributes heat evenly, so the cheese doesn't scorch or clump together. This ensures a beautifully smooth consistency throughout the meal. It’s the perfect centerpiece for gathering loved ones and creating lasting memories!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy and rich flavor profile with a hint of thyme
Perfectly shared among friends and family
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

The Role of Camembert

Camembert cheese is not just a delicious ingredient in this fondue; it's the star of the show. Its high fat content ensures a smooth, creamy texture when melted, creating the perfect dipping consistency. I recommend selecting a high-quality Camembert with a fresh aroma for the best flavor. If you can, opt for an unpasteurized version, as it tends to have a deeper and more complex taste profile that enhances the fondue experience.

When preparing the cheese, be sure to slice off the top rind. This allows the cheese to melt more evenly and prevents it from becoming stringy or gummy. The top rind creates a slight barrier; cutting this away ensures a beautifully gooey texture once melted and gives you that classic fondue experience that everyone craves.

Enhancing Flavor with Thyme and Garlic

Fresh thyme plays a crucial role in this fondue, adding an earthy note that balances the rich creaminess of the Camembert. When using thyme, it’s best to chop it finely to release its oils more effectively, which integrates its flavor throughout the fondue. You could also experiment with other herbs such as rosemary or even a pinch of nutmeg if you want to switch things up.

Don’t overlook the garlic—it's essential for infusing the fondue with a warm, aromatic essence. Halve the clove to allow it to gently impart its flavor to the wine mixture without overpowering the other ingredients. A quick simmer is all it needs; be careful not to cook it too long, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin your fondue.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

While crusty bread is a classic accompaniment, feel free to get creative with your dippers! Freshly cut vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even roasted potatoes can provide different flavors and textures to your fondue experience. I personally love adding slices of apple or pear alongside the bread for a sweet contrast that pairs wonderfully with the savory melted cheese.

For a visually appealing presentation, consider arranging your dippers on a wooden board. You can also serve the fondue with a side of pickles or olives to add a tangy element that balances the richness of the cheese. Remember to keep the fondue warm while serving, as it thickens if it cools down too much, so a gentle heat source is ideal.

Ingredients

For the Fondue

1 large wheel of Camembert cheese
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 clove garlic, halved
Juice of 1 lemon
Crusty bread, cut into chunks
Vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, etc.)

Enjoy the melted goodness with assorted dippers!

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese

Slice the top rind off the Camembert cheese to allow it to melt better. Place it in the center of your fondue pot.

Heat the Mixture

Combine the white wine, chopped thyme, and garlic in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until just simmering.

Mix It All Together

Pour the warm wine mixture over the Camembert in the fondue pot. Add the lemon juice and stir gently to combine.

Melt the Fondue

Place the fondue pot over a heat source and let it melt, stirring occasionally until smooth and creamy.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the garlic, and serve immediately with your choice of bread and vegetable dippers.

Dip, enjoy, and savor every bite!

Pro Tips

For a hint of smokiness, you can add some smoked paprika to the cheese mixture before melting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fondue turns out too thick, try adding a splash more white wine to loosen it up. Make sure to add it gradually while stirring to maintain the right consistency. Alternatively, if your fondue is too thin, continue to heat it gently, allowing it to reduce and thicken as the liquid evaporates. Stirring continually will help create a smoother texture as well.

Sometimes, fondue can become stringy if the cheese is heated too quickly or at too high a temperature. Always melt your Camembert slowly over medium heat and avoid direct flame contact. If you notice stringiness, check the heat level and stir vigorously—this will help to emulsify the cheese back into a creamier state.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time during gatherings, you can prepare the wine and thyme mixture ahead of time. Simply store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you're ready to serve, warm it back up gently before pouring it over the Camembert in your fondue pot. This also allows the flavors to meld nicely, enhancing the overall taste when you're ready to indulge.

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a small amount of white wine to bring it back to a creamy consistency. Don't rush it—slow heat is key to reviving the melted cheese without compromising flavor.

Variations to Try

Fear not if Camembert isn't your cheese of choice! This fondue recipe is versatile; you could substitute Brie or even a mix of Gruyère and Emmental for a nutty flavor profile. Each cheese brings its unique characteristics, but ensure that any cheese used has a good fat content to maintain that sought-after creamy texture.

For an adventurous twist, consider adding some chopped cooked mushrooms or caramelized onions directly into the fondue pot. These ingredients will introduce new layers of flavor and texture that complement the cheese beautifully, making every dip a delightful surprise.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese for fondue?

Absolutely! While Camembert is delicious, you can experiment with Swiss cheese, Gruyère, or a blend of your favorites.

→ Do I need a specific fondue pot?

While it's best to use a fondue pot, you can also use a heavy saucepan on low heat, stirring often.

→ How long can I keep leftover fondue?

You can store leftover fondue in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving again.

→ What dippers do you recommend?

Good options include crusty bread, apple slices, vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers, or even pretzels!