5 Best Fondue Pots for all occasions

Fondue pots may transfer you back to the ’70s and ’80s, and some think them old-fashioned, but fear not, they are still popular! Fondue was named after the French word for melt in the 18th century but it became famous when exhibited during the 1964 World’s Fair in New York.

A huge advantage of serving fondue is the minimal preparation required, meaning the chef can join the party from beginning to end.  Meat, seafood, cheese or chocolate are suitable for use in a fondue and it always adds a festive touch to the meal. 

A fondue pot is not just a pot and there are a few details that need your attention to guarantee a successful fondue night with the food being warm throughout the meal.  Although you can make fondue in a regular cooking pot, a fondue pot with a quality heat source and adjusted capacity will make a fondue meal a stress-free experience.

Fondue pots are typically brought to the table during the cooler winter months and now is the best time to share these pot reviews.

List of best Fondue pots

• Best overall – Cuisinart Electric Fondue Maker
• Best for cheese – Swissmar Lugano 9-Piece Cheese Fondue Set
• Best budget – Oster Electric Fondue Pot 
• Best for small quantities – 2 Pieces Fondue Mug Ceramic Melting Pot 
• Best for Chocolate – Wilton Chocolate Pro Chocolate Fountain and Fondue

Things to consider before buying the best fondue set

Heat Source

There are three sources to keep fondue warm all night. Gel fuel is the traditional, old fashioned way and you need to be sure to provide enough gel. Some smaller pots will work with the heat from tea lights. Both sources will need care and attention around the open flames. Nowadays, electric fondue pots are popular due to their efficiency and adjustable heat control. You might need an extension cord to get to a power outlet, but it is without doubt the safest option. 

The Material

From metal to aluminium and ceramic, there are a variety of materials available. Fondue pots are traditionally round, but some brands offer more modern designs. All materials mentioned are good and your choice depends on your needs and usage. Most pots are dishwasher safe while others should be cleaned by hand so always check the instructions.

Capacity

The depth is important as the ingredients need to be immersed in the ingredient or oil for proper cooking. If buying just for two, a small size is suitable, but bigger pots are available, and we recommend buying a pot for a maximum of 6 people. If hosting a large party, it is a good plan have multiple pots for guests to reach.

Overview of fondue pots

Best overall – Cuisinart Electric Fondue Maker

This electric fondue maker has 1000 Watts of power and an adjustable temperature probe with eight different settings. The non-stick interior makes this pot suitable for cheese, broth, oil, and chocolate.

The silver brushed finish of the pot presents well on every table and the two handles make it safe to remove the warm pot when finished. The stainless-steel ring has notches to hold up to eight colour coded forks supplied with the fondue maker. All components are dishwasher safe after removing the heat source.

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Best for cheese – Swissmar Lugano 9-Piece Cheese Fondue Set

The sturdy enamelled cast iron fondue pot has an authentic, almost retro look. It comes closest to the traditional fondue pot and is heated with gel fuel. The wrought iron rechauffe holds the gel container safely in place.

The pot is convenient, versatile and suitable for use on any heat source. We recommend melting and pre-warming the cheese in the fondue pot on the stove. The enamel coating on the inside means that seasoning the pot is not required. Only use non-stick and wooden utensils and wash the pot by hand.

This set is available in three colours and includes 6 fondue forks and one 3-ounce fire-gel container.

Best budget – Oster Electric Fondue Pot 

The specificity of this fondue pot is in the unique, innovative titanium infused DuraCeramic non-stick ceramic coating. This affordable fondue pot works with electricity, and a magnetic breakaway cord for added safety and easy storage. This set comes with eight color-coded fondue forks and a fork holder ring to keep them in place during dinner. Although this set is promoted for use with cheese, meats, and chocolate, ingredients might burn where the hotspot is and some users recommend it only for meat fondue. The pot needs handwashing and is not dishwasher safe.

Best for small quantities – 2 Pieces Fondue Mug Ceramic Melting Pot 

This set consists of 2 pieces of ceramic fondue mugs and 8 accompanying forks. 

The mugs have a glossy glaze which makes them durable, stain resistant and easy to clean.  The mugs are dishwasher safe and microwave safe. Each fondue cup features a fondue reservoir and space to hold one tea light candle.

Although these mugs serve diverse applications and can be used to melt chocolate, cheese, and broth it is only for very small portions, but they don’t have enough capacity for a full meal. It is most suitable for a dessert chocolate fondue or at a party where a warm dip is needed. 

Best for chocolate – Wilton Chocolate Pro Chocolate Fountain and Fondue

If you want to impress with a centrepiece at the end of your parties, this is a must have! 

This chocolate fountain and fondue set is 16 inches (40 centimetres) tall and has adjustable feet to keep the device steady.  It is necessary to melt the chocolate over a bain marie or in the microwave before adding it to the fountain. The machine lets up to 4 lbs (1.8kg) of melted dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate to flow constantly and has 3 canopies spaced out for easy dipping.

The centre tube disassembles easily and is dishwasher safe after removing it from the electrical unit. 

 

Highlights of the best fondue pot

Fondue pots make a boring night exciting for both family and guests. By offering a wide assortment of foods to fondue, each person can pick and choose their favourites.

Using a fondue pot means that the oil or other ingredients won’t be burnt and sticky like in a regular pot. Also, the best fondue pot keeps the ingredients warm for the duration of the meal.

The added bonus to the afternoon or evening is everyone gets to participate at the same time so it is nice to chat and catch up with them.

Because a fondue can be sweet with chocolate or savoury with cheese, it is a great idea for birthday parties, family gatherings, small bridal showers, an appetiser before a big meal, and just because you want to do something different for lunch or dinner.