Ski-themed New Year's Eve Food Ideas

As the year draws to a close and snow blankets the Alps, we invite you to trade the chaos of traditional celebrations for the joy of alpine-inspired New Year's party food in the comfort of your own home. 

Whether you're a seasoned host or a first-time party planner, our guide will help you craft an evening filled with laughter, warmth and the joy of celebrating in true après-ski style.

So, don your cosiest jumper, grab your fondue forks and let's make this New Year's Eve truly memorable.

Before you dive into the fondue, it’s important to focus on the ambience. Think faux fur throws, candles and twinkling fairy lights... For an extra touch of alpine charm, why not retrieve your skis or snowboard from their loft hibernation and display them against the wall?

Nothing kicks off a winter party better than a warm and indulgent cheese fondue! 

We'd recommend this STAUB mid-range cast iron fondue set from John Lewis. Or you might prefer this contemporary, copper-look fondue set from Dunelm. Just bear in mind that most fondue sets usually serve 6 so if your group is larger than this, you may need to borrow a second set.

What fondue fuel do I need?

We recommend keeping it simple and buying fondue gel tins that slot into the burner part of your fondue set. They will burn for approximately 45-60 minutes and keep your fondue hot. Tip: Don’t forget to stir your fondue from time to time so that the bottom doesn’t burn.

What you'll need for the fondue:

• Fondue set to serve (optional - you can use a large saucepan)
• Fondue fuel
• Cheese fondue ingredients
• Cornichons and silverskin onions
• Green salad
• Charcuterie (optional)

Things for dipping (day-old baguette bread cut into cubes, cherry tomatoes, par-boiled broccoli, red and white chicory leaves etc.)

Fondue recipe ingredients (serves 4-6)

• 1 clove of garlic, peeled and cut in half
• 150ml dry white wine
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 350g Gruyère cheese, grated
• 350g Emmenthal cheese, grated
• 2 tsp cornflour
• 4 tbsp Kirsch
• Black pepper
• Nutmeg

Fondue recipe instructions & method:

1. Rub the inside of a flameproof dish or fondue with the clove of garlic.

2. Pour in the wine and lemon juice and heat gently until bubbling.

3. Gradually stir in the cheeses and heat slowly, stirring until the cheese melts.

4. Blend the cornflour with the Kirsch. Add to the cheese and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes stirring until the mixture is thick and creamy.

5. Add pepper and nutmeg to taste.

6. Serve immediately with the French bread.

If you're short on time, we have the perfect work-around!

Just head to Waitrose and pick up 3 packs of the Emmi Fondü Cheese Original (1 pack serves 2 people). Add in a splash of Kirsch liqueur if you have some, hide the packaging and your guests will never know!

Of course you have to welcome your guests with a ski-themed apéritif. One of the simplest (yet tastiest) apéritifs we know is the classic Kir Royale... Simply pour 1 tbs of crème de cassis into a champagne flute and top with chilled champagne, prosecco or Cava and enjoy...

If you've saved a little space for dessert following your fondue feast and prefer something on the lighter side, consider a sorbet, a scoop of refreshing ice cream or perhaps a fresh fruit salad. For those of you looking for a richer treat, then why not try our delicious gluten-free Chocolate Orange Ganache dessert.

Ingredients for the ganache:

• 200g chocolate
• 300ml cream
• 2 oranges, juice

For the topping:

• 100ml cream whipped
• 20g chocolate grated
• 2 oranges, zested

Chocolate Orange Ganache instructions & method:

1. In a small saucepan gently heat the cream, chocolate and fresh orange juice. Stir occasionally until the chocolate has melted and the mixture has become thick and smooth.

2. Transfer the mixture to a jug, this will help portion the ganache.

3. Divide the mixture between 6 espresso glasses, set in the fridge for a minimum of 3 hours.

4. Serve the ganache topped with whipped cream, grated chocolate and orange zest.

Check out our all-time favourite ski songs playlist blog from back in 2017. Some of the songs would still make the cut...

Hosting a relaxed après-ski-themed evening with some New Year's Eve party food can be a lovely way to usher in the new year. With the right setup and a bit of planning, you can create a cosy atmosphere that allows you and your guests to savour the flavours of the mountains while reminiscing about your skiing adventures or simply enjoying the warmth of good company.

Whether you're a seasoned skier or simply dreaming of snowy slopes, this fondue evening will transport you to the après-ski scenes of the Alps.

If all this talk of après ski and good company has got you in the mood for a ski trip, we'd love to welcome you in one of our luxurious catered ski chalets in 2024.