Add a little Christmas cheer

You may not immediately think of fondue as a festive entertaining option, however we think it's perfect! This easy dish is great for warmer climates, ideal for larger meals, or can be the perfect after feast dessert. To give your fondue a festive touch, try these tips:

  • While there are certain parts of the fondue experience that benefit from a makeover, don't give up all its retro elements. A classic fondue set really sets the scene, complete with its forks and coloured cooking pot it is sure to set the mood.
  • Cut your bread into festive shapes using a small biscuit cutter. Stars, bells and santas are all welcome.
  • For a festive touch, fill platters with green and red vegies to dunk in the molten cheese. Try adding broccoli, gherkins, cherry tomatoes and radishes.
  • For a dramatic touch to your sweet fondue, serve it with white and red accompaniments, such as berries, marshmallows, apple slices and grapes.

Cheese fondue

Try a classic combinations of Beaufort, Abondance and Comté for a classic Swiss flavour. And for some cheesy fondue tips try these:

  • One of the most traditional cheese fondues is made from a mix of Emmental or Gruyere cheese, white wine and kirsch, but today endless variations are possible, so try using your favourite blue cheese, cheddar, or even a tangy goat cheese.
  • To give your cheese fondue a lighter flavour, try substituting the wine for apple cider.
  • Don't like alcohol? Feel free to omit it from any recipe and substitute it with a splash of apple juice instead.

Here's a classic recipe to get you started on your festive fondue feast:

Chocolate fondue

Fondue doesn't need to be a savoury occasion. In fact, some of the best fondues are made with chocolate or caramel. For an easy, interactive dessert pair it with marshmallows, fruit, cubed pieces of brownies and cakes or just about anything you desire. Here are a few more sweet fondue tips to keep in mind:

  • Add a few tablespoons of your favourite liqueur to a chocolate fondue, such as orange, raspberry, mint, or hazelnut.
  • Don't just think about using dark chocolate – white chocolate, milk chocolate and flavoured are all great additions to the fondue pot.
  • Chocolate Fondue
  • Chocolate Fondue

Caramel fondue

Serve up your chocolate fondue with an equally delicious caramel version. Made from a simple mix of sugar, cream, and vanilla, this extra sweet treat is ideal paired with bananas, brownies, fresh fruit, festive biscuits and spicy gingerbread.

What drinks to serve

The best drink to serve alongside fondue is something to cut through the richness of the dish and balance out the flavours. Choose beer, white wine or champagne for cheese fondues. For a dessert fondue, try pairing it with champagne or sweet fortified wine like port or sticky Pedro Ximenez sherry. For those who'd prefer something non-alcoholic alongside their dessert, try serving it with an aromatic tea, such as Chai or bergamot or a strong espresso.

Want more? Head over to our Finger food and party recipes collection for inspiration.