How to Throw a Fondue Party
Are you in the mood for a fun, interactive culinary experience? Try fondue! Melted cheese and chocolate were first made famous in the United States in the 1960s. Generations later, a fondue party still makes it fun to come together.
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Party hosts, it’s time to get creative! Choose from adorable pots and forks, and then select various kinds of cheese and chocolate desserts. We’ll show you how to throw a fondue party for everyone on your guest list. Don’t forget to invite those who eat a plant-based diet! Vegan chocolate and delicious cheese substitutes can make for a party everyone will savor.
Select Your Fondue Style
Fondue can be melted cheese or chocolate, but it can also include a hot pot with protein cooked in an oil or broth. Making more than one fondue style means you’ll need more prep time and additional items. You’ll also need more fondue pots and forks.
If you decide on cheese and chocolate, make your event a dinner and dessert party. Try different kinds of melted or plant-based cheese to find what melts and tastes best for your celebration. Consider cooking a few types of meat or plant-based protein before moving on to chocolate. Mouthwatering fondue cheeses include buttery Swiss and rich Cheddar. You can also make fondue from creamy varieties like Fontina or Gruyere.
When it’s time for the dessert course, offer one or more types of chocolate. Dark chocolate and milk chocolate fondue are popular, but you can also melt semi-sweet chocolate or white chocolate. Mix chocolate for a decadent swirl. Some dessert fondue recipes call for flavor additions like mint or caramel.
Gather Fondue Fixings
Now that you know what cheese or chocolate you’re having, it’s time to choose your snacks and trimmings. Some of the most popular companions for fondue cheese include crusty bread and apples, but you can also try grapes or broccoli. Cauliflower or roasted potatoes taste delicious enrobed in a hot, creamy cheese dip. You can even include bell peppers or breadsticks.
While you gather the fixings for dessert fondue, think of a fruit that tastes delicious dipped in chocolate. The most popular choices include strawberries and bananas, but you can also try apples or pineapple. Graham crackers and marshmallows make for a decadent chocolate fondue treat. Cubes of angel food cake and pound cake hold up well to a thick chocolate mixture.
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Order Fondue Pots and Forks
You’re one step ahead if you have fondue pots and forks at home. Otherwise, you’ll need to shop for a few supplies. If you’re hosting a group, look for a large stainless steel fondue pot with a set of forks. Stainless steel is an excellent choice for making cheese fondue.
Another idea is to impress your guests with a cast iron fondue pot. It looks like a vintage cooking tool and keeps cheese bubbly and hot. Cast iron quickly heats hot pots and dessert chocolate. Have more fun with an enameled cast iron pot in a vibrant color like red or yellow.
Ceramic fondue pots are among the most popular because they’re affordable and colorful. You’ll find a hue or pattern for everyone, including brightly colored pots and chic speckled designs. To make the experience easier and more fun, use a different color for each course or partygoer. Elevate your party with a combination burner or a fondue fountain.
Make the Fondue
The big day is here, and it’s time to make your fondue! Start with your fondue cheese, and then make your chocolate for dessert. Here are the steps to making cheese and chocolate fondue:
Cheese Fondue
Grate your cheese, and then combine it with gluten-free cornstarch. Heat a medium saucepan, and then add the cheese mixture slowly and stir constantly. Grabbing a small handful at a time will help to create a creamy texture. Include preferred spices or seasonings.
You can even add wine! A classic cheese fondue recipe calls for wine, so use the same beverage quality you would enjoy for a nice dinner. Of course, you can skip the wine or swap it out for craft beer or brandy. Once your cheese fondue is ready, transfer it immediately to your fondue pot. That’s it! You’re ready to eat cheese fondue. Keep the mixture warm in the pot to keep enjoying its luscious texture.
Chocolate Fondue
Chop a plant-based chocolate bar into pieces or grab your favorite chocolate discs for baking. Set aside. Heat cream or plant-based milk in a saucepan. Stir the cream or milk occasionally over medium-low heat until it becomes hot. Slowly add the chocolate discs or pieces, stirring constantly. Finish the mixture with flavoring like vanilla extract or brandy.
Another way to make chocolate fondue is to use sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder. Start by sifting the sugar and cocoa powder together. Heat cream or plant-based milk in a saucepan until it begins to simmer. Whisk in the sifted sugar and cocoa powder until it becomes smooth and uniform with the milk or cream. Add finely chopped chocolate or chocolate discs for baking until the mixture looks lustrous and creamy. Transfer your chocolate and serve with your dessert treats.
Create a Party Atmosphere
Once your fondue and fixings are ready, it’s time to work on the party atmosphere! A fondue party should feel modern and cozy. Wear something stylish, then set your station outside or at a large table in your dining room or kitchen. Play upbeat music or turn on a movie. You can include candles or mood lighting or combine your meal with a date or game night. Whatever way you choose to celebrate, your fondue party will feel chic and elevated.
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Hosting a Fun Fondue Party
A fondue party is just as fun today as it was 60 years ago. Embrace the vintage vibe, and then choose delicious cheese and chocolate to impress foodies and delight their taste buds. With such tasty food and an elevated presentation, you’re sure to host an unforgettable night.
