Grilled Maryland Rye Whiskey Bread Pudding

Introduction

Bread pudding reaches new heights when grilled on the Arteflame with Maryland rye whiskey. The flat top griddle caramelizes the edges perfectly while the whiskey-infused custard keeps the inside rich and creamy. This dessert is infused with deep, smoky flavors that make it a standout dish for any cookout.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of rye bread, torn into chunks
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup Maryland rye whiskey
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• Powdered sugar, for garnish
• Caramel sauce, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to burn until the grill is ready for cooking (approximately 20 minutes).

Step 2: Prepare the bread pudding mixture

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, sugar, eggs, Maryland rye whiskey, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon.
2. Add the torn rye bread chunks to the bowl and gently toss until coated.
3. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to fully absorb the custard.

Step 3: Cook the bread pudding on the Arteflame flat cooktop

1. Lightly butter a section of the flat-top cooktop.
2. Spread the soaked bread evenly on the flat-top griddle, pressing it together slightly to form a solid mass.
3. Slow-cook over medium heat, pressing down occasionally with a spatula to create a golden, caramelized crust.

Step 4: Flip and caramelize the other side

1. Use a spatula to flip portions of the bread pudding carefully.
2. Continue cooking until the pudding is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

1. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
2. Dust with powdered sugar.
3. Serve with caramel sauce and enjoy.

Tips

• For crisper edges, increase the heat by moving the pudding closer to the center of the flat griddle.
• Allow the whiskey custard mixture to sit longer (20 minutes) for deeper flavor absorption.
• Add smoked nuts or chocolate chips for extra complexity.

Variations

1. Chocolate Whiskey Bread Pudding: Add ½ cup chocolate chips to the bread mixture for a rich twist.
2. Fruit and Nut Bread Pudding: Stir in ½ cup chopped walnuts and dried cranberries for additional texture.
3. Caramelized Apple Bread Pudding: Add sliced caramelized apples for a sweet and tangy contrast.
4. Pecan Bourbon Variation: Substitute rye whiskey with bourbon and top with toasted pecans.
5. Maple Cinnamon Bread Pudding: Replace sugar with maple syrup and add extra cinnamon for a warm, spiced sweetness.

Best Pairings

• Aged Maryland rye whiskey
• Vanilla bean ice cream
• Fresh berries
• Caramel macchiato
• Espresso

Conclusion

Grilling bread pudding on the Arteflame brings out rich, smoky flavors with a perfectly caramelized crust. Whether you're serving it at a cookout or as a fall dessert, this recipe pairs beautifully with whiskey or coffee.