California Live correspondent, Laila Muhammad, visits “Violet Cooking School” in the Westwood Village neighborhood of Los Angeles where Chef Jesse Brune-Horan teaches her how to assemble the perfect at-home date night meal kit.
Classic Fondue
Jesse Brune-Horan, director of Violet Cooking School, shows us how to create a savory cheese fondue for the perfect at-home date night.
Makes: 2-4 Servings
INGREDIENTS:
1 garlic clove
4 ounces Comte cheese
(Fontina may be substituted)
4 ounces Gruyere cheese
California Live
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup white wine
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1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
EQUIPMENT NEEDED:
Ceramic fondue pot
Small bowl
Medium stockpot
HOW TO MAKE:
1. Rub the inside of the ceramic fondue pot with the garlic clove, then discard.
2. In a small bowl, add the cheeses and cornstarch, toss to coat, set aside.
3. In a medium stockpot, add the white wine and lemon juice and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir the cheese into the simmering liquid. Melting the cheese gradually encourages a smooth fondue. Once smooth, pour into the prepared fondue pot.
4. Arrange an assortment of bite-sized dipping foods 9bread, sliced apples, and some of your favorite vegetables) onto a tray, around the fondue pot. Spear the treats with a fondue fork, dip, swirl and enjoy!
*Recipe courtesy of Violet Cooking School
Easy Classic Chocolate Fondue Recipe
Chef Jesse Brune-Horan of Violet Cooking School shares this simple and indulgent chocolate fondue recipe that comes together in minutes and is perfect for dipping fruit, marshmallows, pretzels, and more.
Serves 4-6 people
Ingredients
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Equipment
Small saucepan or double boiler
Heatproof bowl (if using a double boiler)
Whisk or spoon for stirring
Fondue pot or small bowl for serving
Instructions
1. Heat the Cream – In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the heavy cream until it starts to steam but does not boil.
2. Melt the Chocolate – Remove the pan from heat and add the chocolate chips. Let sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
3. Finish with Flavor – Stir in the butter (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt for extra depth. Mix until fully combined.
4. Serve Immediately – Transfer to a fondue pot or a serving bowl. If using a fondue pot with a candle or flame, keep it on the lowest setting to avoid burning.
What to Dip
Fruits – Strawberries, bananas, apple slices, orange segments, pineapple chunks
Crunchy Snacks – Pretzels, biscotti, graham crackers, shortbread cookies
Soft Treats – Large marshmallows, cubed pound cake, brownies, rice crispy treats
Savory Bites – Potato chips, salted nuts
Tips for Perfect Fondue
Avoid Overheating – Chocolate can burn or seize if overheated. Keep the heat low and stir frequently.
Use a Double Boiler for Extra Control – Melt the chocolate over gently simmering water in a heatproof bowl for better temperature control.
Keep It Warm – A small candle or tea light under a fondue pot helps maintain the perfect dipping consistency.
Thin It Out If Needed – If the fondue thickens too much, stir in a little extra warmed heavy cream.
*Recipe courtesy of Violet Cooking School
