Melty Chilli Cheese & Thyme Fondue Dip Recipe

Introduction

This melty chilli cheese and thyme fondue dip is a delightful crowd-pleaser, combining creamy cheeses with a sweet and spicy kick. Perfect for sharing, it’s an easy and indulgent appetizer that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread.

Ingredients

• 200g brie, roughly chopped
• 100g soft cheese
• 100g gruyère, rind removed, chopped into small chunks
• 2 tbsp grated parmesan
• 2 tbsp milk
• 2 tsp cornflour
• A few thyme sprigs, leaves picked, plus extra for sprinkling
• Pinch of chilli flakes, plus extra for sprinkling
• 100g sweet chilli jam
• Crusty bread, to serve

Instructions

1. Step 1: Put the brie, soft cheese, gruyère, half the parmesan, the milk, and cornflour into a food processor and blitz until smooth.
2. Step 2: Stir in the thyme leaves and chilli flakes carefully to combine with the cheese mixture.
3. Step 3: Spread the sweet chilli jam over the base of a baking dish (about 15 x 12cm), then spoon the cheese mixture evenly over the jam.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle with the remaining parmesan, plus a little extra thyme and chilli flakes for garnish.
5. Step 5: Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/Gas mark 3. Place the dish on a baking tray.
6. Step 6: Bake for 20 minutes until bubbling, then grill on medium-high for 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp on top.
7. Step 7: Let the dip rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with crusty bread for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• Use different soft cheeses like camembert or cream cheese to vary the creaminess and flavor.
• Add a splash of white wine to the cheese mix before baking for extra depth.
• Adjust the amount of chilli flakes to suit your heat preference or swap sweet chilli jam for a spicier version.

Storage

Cover the prepared dip and keep it refrigerated for up to three days before baking. After baking, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven until warmed through and bubbly.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip and assembly up to three days in advance. Keep it covered and chilled, then bake just before serving.

What can I use instead of crusty bread for dipping?

Vegetable sticks like celery, carrot, or bell pepper, as well as crackers or tortilla chips, also work well with this fondue dip.