Grilled Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Grilled Strawberry Cheesecake French toast is a decadent breakfast or brunch treat filled with a rich cream cheese mixture and topped with fresh strawberries. Grilling the French toast on the Arteflame grill adds a smoky caramelization that enhances the creamy, tangy cheesecake filling. Topped with powdered sugar and syrup, this indulgent dish is perfect for special occasions or a sweet morning treat.

Ingredients

For the French Toast:

• 8 slices of thick-cut brioche or challah bread
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp sugar
• Butter (for grilling)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (plus extra for topping)

For Serving:

• Maple syrup (for drizzling)
• Extra sliced strawberries (for topping)
• Fresh whipped cream (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

Start by lighting the Arteflame grill using vegetable oil-soaked napkins and firewood. Let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop reaches medium-high heat, perfect for grilling French toast.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries. Set the filling aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Stuffed French Toast

Spread the cheesecake filling on one side of a slice of bread and place another slice on top to make a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining bread slices.

Step 4: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until smooth.

Step 5: Soak the Sandwiches

Dip each stuffed sandwich into the custard mixture, soaking both sides for a few seconds until fully coated but not overly soggy.

Step 6: Grill the French Toast

Melt butter on the flat cooktop of the Arteflame grill. Place the soaked sandwiches onto the hot grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Move the French toast to a cooler section of the grill if necessary to ensure it cooks evenly without burning.

Step 7: Serve

Top the grilled French toast with extra sliced strawberries, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a dusting of powdered sugar. Add whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch, if desired.

Tips

• Perfect Bread: Use thick slices of brioche or challah to hold the filling well without getting too soggy.
• Flavor Boost: For a tangier cheesecake flavor, add a bit of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.
• Even Cooking: Use the cooler sections of the grill to prevent the bread from burning while ensuring the inside is warm and creamy.

Variations

1. Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast: Add a layer of Nutella or melted chocolate to the cheesecake filling for a decadent twist.
2. Berry Medley French Toast: Use a mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries in the filling along with the strawberries for a berry-filled version.
3. Savory Cheesecake French Toast: Swap out the sugar and vanilla for herbs like thyme or chives and pair the cream cheese with smoked salmon for a savory brunch option.
4. Banana Cheesecake French Toast: Substitute the strawberries with caramelized bananas for a rich, tropical variation.
5. Almond-Crusted French Toast: Press sliced almonds into the outside of the bread after soaking in the custard for a crunchy texture.

Best Pairings

• Side Dishes: Serve with crispy bacon, grilled sausages, or fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness of the French toast.
• Drinks: Pair with a mimosa, cappuccino, or a refreshing glass of orange juice for a perfect brunch experience.

Conclusion

Grilled Strawberry Cheesecake French toast is a sweet, indulgent breakfast treat that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the smoky caramelization of grilled French toast. With fresh strawberries and a tangy cream cheese filling, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next brunch gathering.