Deep Fried Cheese Fondue

Name: Deep Fried Cheese Fondue
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz Gruyère cheese, grated; 8 oz cheddar cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Artisan Dessert Bakes

I can't get enough of this Deep Fried Cheese Fondue! The sheer joy of dipping crispy bites into gooey, melty cheese is unparalleled. It's a delightful twist on traditional fondue, and every bite takes me back to my fondest memories of cheese-laden gatherings with friends. The crunchy outer layer provides an addictive contrast to the rich cheese filling, making it a favorite at parties or cozy nights in. Perfect for sharing, this indulgent treat will certainly become a go-to dish in your culinary repertoire.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T22:42:31.115Z

Making this Deep Fried Cheese Fondue has become one of my favorite activities! The process is surprisingly simple, yet the payoff is extraordinary. I remember the first time my friends and I made it together, laughing and experimenting with different cheeses. We discovered that Gruyère and cheddar create the perfect blend, offering a rich flavor that melts beautifully.

One great tip I learned is to ensure the oil is the right temperature before frying. If it's too cool, you'll end up with soggy coating. A quick test with a bread cube helps determine when it's ready. This little trick can elevate your deep frying game!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy outer layer gives a satisfying crunch
Melty cheese center creates a rich and flavorful experience
Perfect for sharing with friends and family during gatherings

      

Mastering the Cheese Fondue

The foundation of this Deep Fried Cheese Fondue lies in achieving the perfect melty cheese mixture. Gruyère and cheddar provide a rich depth of flavor, but don’t hesitate to experiment with other types of cheese like Fontina for an even creamier result. As the cheeses melt, remember to stir continuously to prevent sticking and burning, creating a silky texture that's truly irresistible. If it's too thick, a splash of additional wine can help restore its smoothness.

Once you combine the cornstarch and lemon juice, ensure you mix it thoroughly into the cheese. Cornstarch not only helps to stabilize the fondue but also gives it that famous stretchy quality. Aim for a glossy finish; if your mixture appears grainy, reheat gently on low while stirring until it smooths out. This step can significantly enhance the overall texture of your cheese bites.

Perfecting the Breading Technique

Setting up a proper breading station is crucial for achieving an even coating on your cheese bites. When you coat the cheese balls in flour, dust off any excess to avoid clumping, which can interfere with the egg wash. The egg establishes a binder, so make sure to fully coat them before rolling in breadcrumbs. For the breadcrumbs, consider using panko for an extra crunch; it adds a delightful texture contrast when biting through the crispy exterior.

After breading, chilling the cheese balls is essential to prevent them from losing their shape during frying. If you find freezing them for only 30 minutes isn’t enough, you can let them chill longer; just keep an eye on texture. You’re looking for them to be firm but not frozen solid, allowing them to maintain their gooey center when they fry.

Ingredients

For the Cheese Fondue

8 oz Gruyère cheese, grated
8 oz cheddar cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Breading

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Steps

Prepare the Cheese Fondue

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the grated Gruyère and cheddar with the wine and minced garlic. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and smooth. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with lemon juice and add to the cheese mixture, stirring to combine.

Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Shape the Cheese Bites

Once the cheese mixture is cool enough to handle, scoop out about a tablespoon of cheese and shape it into small balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for about 30 minutes to firm up.

Prepare for Frying

In three separate bowls, set up a breading station: flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in the second, and breadcrumbs in the third. Season each with salt and pepper.

Bread the Cheese Balls

Take the frozen cheese balls and coat them in flour first, then dip them in the beaten eggs, and finally roll them in breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Fry the Cheese Balls

In a deep pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded cheese balls and fry until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider infusing the oil with herbs such as thyme or rosemary while heating. This will give the fried cheese balls a delightful aroma and taste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cheese balls burst while frying, it might indicate the oil is too hot, causing the exterior to cook faster than the inside can melt, resulting in a leak. To avoid this, use a thermometer and maintain oil at a steady 350°F (175°C). Also, avoid overcrowding the pot, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking.

Should your cheese mixture become overly stringy or tough, excessive heating while melting can be the culprit. Aim for a gentle heat, and stir frequently. If this happens, try adding a tablespoon of warm wine to loosen the mixture back to the desired consistency.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to serving, these cheese bites are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer for optimal crispiness. Pairing them with a variety of dipping options can elevate the experience; think tangy marinara, sweet chili sauce, or even a zesty garlic aioli. Each dip offers a different flavor profile that complement the rich cheese center beautifully.

For a fun twist, consider offering a selection of toppings on the side like chopped herbs or crushed red pepper flakes. This way, guests can customize their bites, adding a bit of personality to their snack. For more indulgence, pair your deep fried cheese fondue with a nice glass of chilled white wine to enhance the flavor and richness of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Experimenting with different cheese combinations can create unique flavors. Just make sure they melt well.

→ Is it necessary to freeze the cheese balls before frying?

Yes, freezing helps maintain their shape and prevents the cheese from leaking during frying.

→ What can I serve with the deep-fried cheese fondue?

Pair them with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli for an added kick.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prepare the cheese balls and freeze them. Fry them just before serving for the best texture.