All Fondue Sets
Fondue Pots and Equipment
Before you splurge and get yourself a new fondue kit, you should know that all fondue sets were designed with a purpose in mind, and a particular kit should not be used for something it was not designed for.
This page will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision on the type of fondue pot, fondue forks and all other fondue gear you may need.
You can learn more about reliable brands for fondue equipment here. You can also learn how to fondue and learn more about fondue etiquette here.
Scroll down to: Fondue Pots - Fondue Fuel - Fondue Forks
Fondue Plates - Lazy Susans - Cheeses - Chocolate Mixes
Fondue Pots
The fondue pot (or caquelon) is the most important piece of equipment for having fondue. You may have one that has been gathering dust in your cupboards since the 1970s, but that doesn't mean that it is the one you need for the type of fondue you like!
Ideally, a fondue pot is shared by up to 4 people. You could stretch that to 6 people depending on the size of the fondue pot. Here are the main categories of caquelons:
- Cheese Fondue Set.
A fairly constant temperature is required to keep melted cheese from solidifying again. This is why the tea light fondue pots are not meant to be used as cheese fondue pots.
Cheese fondue pots are made of ceramic or earthenware, have a flat bottom and have a large openings to accommodate dipping. - Hot Oil Fondue Set
Hot oil fondue pots must be able to withstand a very high temperature without cracking. As such, these pots are made of stainless steel, copper or cast iron.
Note: ceramic pots are not suitable for hot oil fondue. - Broth Fondue Set
- Chocolate Fondue Set.
Chocolate or other dessert fondue pots are normally smaller than the typical fondue pots and use a tealight to keep the melted chocolate at the right temperature.
Chocolate fondue pots are made of earthenware, ceramic, porcelain or sometimes tempered glass. - Chocolate Fondue Fountain.
Chocolate fountains are becoming more and more popular. The main advantage is that the melted chocolate is flowing and does not form a harden ball like some fondue pots tend to do.
Also, a fountain can accommodate a lot more guests than a single chocolate fondue pot. However, they are significantly more expensive and can take a lot more room. - Electric Fondue Set.
In recent years, several electrical fondue pots have emerged. Some of these electrical fondue pots are versatile enough to be used for all types of fondue, and as such, are considered to be the best investment for fondue beginners or those who are culinary challenged...
Simply plug it in, set the temperature, dip and enjoy. Make sure to fully research the product you are considering before spending your money and make sure that you have an electrical outlet in a convenient location!
If you don't like doing dishes, try to get a fondue pot that is dishwasher safe.
Learn more about various fondue pots.
Read my reviews and recommendations for Rival fondue pots and fountains here.
All Fondue Sets - Fondue Fuel
You have to get the right type of fuel for the fondue pot you are using. Look at the burner that came with the pot and read the instructions if necessary. Here are the most common types of fondue fuels:
- Unscented Tealights.
Small tea light candles are used for chocolate fondue. Simply ensure that you use unscented candles and keep a supply on hand for when the light goes out.
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- Fondue Gel.
Make sure that your burner can accommodate gel fuel. It is very similar to the alcohol based fuel but not as dangerous.
- Sterno.
This particular brand of fuel is like fuel in a box. Buy it, light it and use it. When you are done, extinguish the flame and you can keep it for future use.
One thing that all fondue fuels have in common is the requirement to store them away from children and pets. To learn more about fondue fuel, read this page or learn how to light your fondue burner here.
All Fondue Sets - Fondue Forks
Different types of forks exist for different types of fondue. Mainly, there are two types of forks:
- Meat and Cheese Fondue Forks. These forks have two or three prongs and long handles to ensure you don't get burned with the hot oil, hot broth or hot cheese.
- Dessert Forks. Dessert forks are shorter than the meat and cheese forks yet still long enough to be dipped into the melted chocolate without getting your fingers burned.
When buying your forks, you want to make sure that the handles will be able to withstand the heat without passing it on to your guests! If you are planning on having meatball fondue, you should have a special dipping wire mesh spoon.
Fondue forks are color-coded like the Trudeau Fondue Forks - Set of 6
All Fondue Sets - Fondue Plates
Plates like the Trudeau Party Plates, Set of 4
You can have various dips in these little compartments or perhaps raw and cooked meat or even have side dishes (e.g., rice, salad, etc.). Experiment and have fun.
Learn more about fondue plates here.
All Fondue Sets - Dipping Trays
Some lazy susan fondue sets like the Trudeau 24 Piece 3 In 1 Lazy Susan Fondue Set
These bowls or compartments were designed to hold the various dips that you prepare for your guests.
If you don't have such fondue set, use small bowls or short glasses and make sure to rotate them through the evening so your guests can try all your dips.
All Fondue Sets - Cheese Fondue Kits
You can purchase a Set of Fondue Cheeses online
Or, if you're looking at an easier way to make cheese fondue, several companies make cheese fondue kits like the Swiss Knight Cheese Fondue
No cheese grating, no measuring and possibly ruining a recipe.
These kits are sometimes called instant fondue kits or heat and serve fondue.
All you have to do is open the pouch, stir and melt, then stir some more and you're ready to start dipping.
All Fondue Sets - Chocolate Fondue Kits
Similarly, if you're looking at an easy way to make chocolate fondue, several companies make milk chocolate or dark chocolate fondue kits that are ready to be melted like the Sephra Dark Chocolate Mix.
Shop around and make sure that the expiry date hasn't come and gone already.
Here are some chocolate mixes for fondue fountains and fondue pots that I recommend.
All Fondue Sets - Tips
So you're all set and you have all fondue sets on hand? Other things to be considered when planning a fondue party are as follows:
- Make sure that your table is large enough to accommodate the number of guests you have invited.
- Make sure that you have enough fondue pots to accommodate the number of guests, with 4 people to a pot as an ideal situation.
- If using an electrical fondue pot, make sure that the cord will not be in the way and cause one of your guests to trip and possibly spill the contents of the fondue pot.
- Make sure that the fondue pot will be placed on a stable flat surface and will not have to be moved while the contents are still hot.
- Keep your fondue fuel away from children and pets.
- Keep your burner cover nearby in case you need to extinguish it in a hurry.
- Always have another bottle of fondue fuel available just in case you run out.
- Most importantly, be safe and have fun.
