There’s something magical about gathering around a pot of warm, bubbling fondue. And when it’s made with apple cider? Even better. This apple cider fondue is a fall favorite, combining the cozy sweetness of cider with creamy, melted cheese to create an irresistible dip for bread, fruit, and more.
Unlike traditional fondue made with wine, this version uses apple cider for a seasonal twist that brings out a subtle sweetness and rich depth of flavor. It’s family-friendly, comforting, and perfect for crisp autumn evenings, dinner parties, or festive get-togethers.
To make this fondue, start by warming your apple cider in a pot. You want it hot but not boiling. Gradually add shredded cheeses, a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy Gruyère works beautifully, and stir until everything melts into a smooth, velvety mixture. A touch of Dijon mustard adds tang, while a sprinkle of nutmeg brings warmth and balance.
Consistency is key. If your fondue starts to feel too thick, add a splash more cider. Too thin? Let it simmer just a bit longer. It should be smooth enough to coat your dippers but thick enough to cling.
Speaking of dippers, the possibilities are endless. Cubes of crusty bread are a classic choice, but apple slices, roasted vegetables, pretzels, or even cooked sausage links make delicious options. Arrange everything on a platter and let your guests dip and swirl to their heart’s content.
This apple cider fondue is more than just a dish, it’s an experience. It brings people together, sparks conversation, and adds a touch of seasonal charm to any table. Whether you’re hosting a fall party or just cozying up at home, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
So grab a fondue pot (or any heavy saucepan), gather your favorite dippers, and get ready to dive into cheesy, cider-spiked comfort. One taste, and you’ll see why this apple cider fondue deserves a spot on your fall recipe rotation.
Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Pretzels for serving
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat the apple cider over medium heat until simmering.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and maple syrup until smooth.
- Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering cider, stirring constantly.
- Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
- Transfer the fondue to a fondue pot or a serving dish.
- Serve with baguette slices, apple slices, and pretzels for dipping.
It was ok, but I prefer chocolate fondue. This didn’t really do it for me. Too savory I guess.
It didn’t turn out as I expected. The cheese clumped up and it was kind of a mess. 😕
Aw, that sucks! Maybe the heat was too high? I had a similar issue, but it worked out in the end! Just keep practicing!
I’ve made this before and it turned out great! Did you use fresh cheese? Sometimes pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt well. 🤔
This is such a fun twist on fondue! The apple cider adds a nice fruity flavor. Loved it!
I don’t like apples, so I didn’t try it. No thanks!
So easy to make. This recipe is a keeper! 😍
So easy to make! I did it in under 20 minutes. Yum!
Really? Only 20 minutes? My last fondue took forever. Might give this a try!
That’s awesome! I love how quick and easy it is. Perfect for a snack!
Best love! Love it, love it, love it! Perfect for fall gatherings. Yasss! 🍏🧀
This sounds amazing! I can’t wait to try it at my next party! 😍
I dunno… cheddar cheese and apple cider? Sounds weird, but good luck! 🤔
It was alright, but I think it needs more flavor. Maybe some garlic or something? 🤔
Just two ingredients?! I thought this was gonna be tougher to make. Really easy, will try again!
I’m not so sure about this recipe. Cheese and cider? Sounds weird to me. Maybe I’ll try it but I’m skeptical.
Tried it but it didn’t thicken as much as I expected. Maybe I did something wrong.
I can’t believe you put cider and cheese together. Sounds gross but I gave it a try. It wasn’t that bad 😅
Simple recipe but tasted weird with sweet apple cider. Imma stick to chocolate fondue. 😖
CHEESE!!! 🧀 This sounds soooo cheesy and delicious! Can’t wait to try!
I dunno, I expected a lot more from this recipe. It was kinda plain to me.😕
I thought it was awesome! The cheese and cider combo is so good. Not everything needs to be super fancy! 😄
I get what you mean. It can be a bit basic if you’re looking for something really exciting. Maybe try adding some spices or herbs next time? 🤷♂️
This is such a fun twist on traditional cheese fondue! The apple cider adds a great flavor. My friends loved it!
That sounds really tasty! I love the idea of using apple cider in fondue. Can’t wait to try it!
5 stars! Who knew cheddar could be so creamy? You gotta try this recipe, it’s the best fondue ever!
Totally agree! I added some bacon bits and it was mind-blowing! It’s not just the cheddar, the cider gives it a nice kick too!
This was a hit at my family gathering! Everyone loved it. Thank you!
Awesome! Glad to hear it was a hit! I’ll have to try it at my next get-together.
YUM! Super good! My kids loved dipping the pretzels in. I might use milk instead of cider next time tho.
Delicious! Used different cheeses and it still turned out so good! Can’t wait to make again!
I made it, but my cheese wouldn’t melt! What did I do wrong?? Help!!
Apple cider and cheese? Not sure about that combo. 🤔
Trust me, it’s a game changer! The sweetness of the cider really complements the sharpness of the cheese. You should try it! 😋
This was a hit at my party! Everyone loved it. The cheddar pairs so well with the sweet cider. Definitely making again!
Uh, isn’t cheddar too strong for this? Just sayin… not sure if I’d try it. But okay.
I thought I had cornstarch but turns out it was flour. Made it anyway. Came out thick but still tastes fine.
Not sure about cheddar and apple cider tbh… sounded weird but gave it a go. Was… okay.
I thought the same at first, but it was a hit at my party! The combos are great for dipping. 😊
Easy peasy! Perfect for a cozy night. I used regular cheddar and it came out fine.
I made this for my kids’ party and they devoured it! So good with the pretzels! 🍏🧀
Delicious! I added some nuts in the mix and it was awesome. Perfect for fall gatherings!
Not sure about cheese and cider together… sounds weird. I won’t be making this.
I thought the same at first, but it’s actually really good! Give it a shot! 🍏🧀
I used gouda instead of cheddar and it worked fine! Great recipe!
Not sure if this is supposed to be healthy but I like my fondue with a ton of calories! 🍕 Maybe add bacon?
Isn’t cider supposed to be sweet? Why mix it with cheese? I tried it and it was jus ok for me.
I made this for a party and everyone loved it! The cheese melted beautifully, and the pretzels were a perfect match!
That sounds amazing! I love how cheese just makes everything better! What a great idea to pair it with pretzels!
I don’t know, cheese and apple cider? Seems kinda weird to me. Are you sure it was good?
Aw man, this was a flop! My cheese didn’t melt right, ended up with a lumpy mess. Maybe I did it wrong??
I skipped the cheddar and used gouda instead. Was YUM! 😊
Cheddar is the best for fondue tho, Gouda is too mild. You must be missing out!
Gouda sounds like a great twist! I gotta try that next time. 😄
Omg! So good, I could eat this every day. Perfect for parties!
I totally agree! Apple cider fondue is the best! I’ve made it for every party and everyone loves it!
Sounds good, but I’m not sure about putting cider in a cheese dish. Isn’t that gonna taste weird? 🤔
This was a total hit at my party! Everyone loved it and wanted the recipe! So delish!
I dunno, the apple cider seems weird for cheese fondue. I tried it but didn’t like it. Maybe I’m just picky.
I thought the apple cider added a nice twist! Sorry it didn’t work for you. Maybe try it again without the cheese? Just a thought!
Do you really need the cornstarch? Seems unnecessary.
Yum! Who knew cider and cheese would go so well together? I’m making it again for sure! 😍
Pretty good, but I think I added too much cheese. Oops! 😂
Too much cheese? Never heard of that! Cheese is life! 😂🧀
I made this last week and my kids loved it! Perfect for fall!
That sounds amazing! I’m so glad your kids enjoyed it! Fall flavors are the best!
I dunno if my kids would like that cheese and cider combo. Cheddar and apples? Sounds weird to me.
How in world do you dip with pretzels? That sounds a bit. I think I’ll stick to apples.
Why would anyone dip pretzels in cider cheese? No thanks.
This sounds delicious! Can’t wait to try it at my next gathering.
This is sooo good! I added some garlic and it took it to the next level. Highly recommend!
I never thought of adding garlic to fondue! That’s creative! I’ll have to try it next time.
Garlic? Really? This sounds weird. I don’t think it would taste good with apple cider and cheese.
Hmm, I’m not convinced. Cider is for drinks, cheese is for pizza. Not mixing those!
Nah man, sounds weird. Just stick to nachos or something! Cider’s sweet not savory!
I get where you’re coming from, but it’s actually a delicious combo! Who knew cider and cheese could be so good together? 🍏🧀