Fall is a season of warmth, comfort, and indulgence. As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like gathering with loved ones around a delicious spread of appetizers. While the classic cheese board has long been a staple, why not give it a fall spin this year with a decadent three-cheese fondue made with apple cider? This rich and creamy dip is the perfect accompaniment to a variety of hearty dippers, making it a crowd-pleaser for any fall gathering.

### The Magic of Apple Cider in Fondue

Apple cider is a quintessential fall ingredient that adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to the traditional fondue recipe. Its natural acidity helps to balance the richness of the cheese, while its warm, spiced flavor profile complements the autumnal flavors of the season. When combined with a blend of three different cheeses, the result is a smooth and velvety fondue that is both comforting and delicious.

### Choosing the Right Cheeses

The key to a great fondue is choosing the right combination of cheeses. For this fall-inspired recipe, we recommend using a blend of Gruyère, Emmental, and Fontina. Gruyère is a nutty and flavorful cheese that melts beautifully, while Emmental adds a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness. Fontina, on the other hand, has a mild and buttery flavor that rounds out the blend. Together, these three cheeses create a rich and complex flavor profile that is sure to please even the most discerning palates.

### The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup apple cider
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 8 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 8 ounces Emmental cheese, shredded
• 8 ounces Fontina cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Assorted dippers, such as crusty bread, apples, pears, carrots, and celery

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, garlic, dry mustard, and nutmeg. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
2. In a small bowl, combine the shredded cheeses and cornstarch. Toss to coat the cheese evenly.
3. Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering apple cider, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the fondue is smooth and creamy.
4. Season the fondue with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the fondue to a fondue pot or a heatproof serving dish. Keep the fondue warm over a low flame or a fondue burner.
6. Arrange the assorted dippers on a platter and serve alongside the fondue. Encourage your guests to dip their favorite foods into the warm and creamy cheese.

### Tips for Success

- Use a good-quality apple cider for the best flavor. Look for a cider that is made from fresh apples and has a natural sweetness.

- Shred the cheese yourself for a better melt. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent the cheese from melting smoothly.

- Stir the fondue constantly while it is cooking to prevent the cheese from clumping or burning.

- If the fondue becomes too thick, you can add a little more apple cider to thin it out.

- Keep the fondue warm over a low flame or a fondue burner to prevent it from solidifying.

### Variations

While this three-cheese fondue is delicious on its own, you can also customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations to try:

- **Spicy Fondue:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the fondue for a spicy kick.

- **Herbaceous Fondue:** Stir in a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or sage, for a fragrant and flavorful twist.

- **Smoked Fondue:** Use smoked Gruyère or smoked Emmental cheese for a smoky and savory flavor.

- **Fruit-Infused Fondue:** Add a handful of dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apples to the fondue for a sweet and tart flavor.

In conclusion, this three-cheese fondue made with apple cider is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that is perfect for fall gatherings. Its rich and creamy texture, combined with the warm and spiced flavor of apple cider, makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. So, the next time you're looking for a new and exciting way to serve cheese, give this fall-inspired fondue a try. Your guests will thank you!