Introduction
Grilled French toast cooked on the Arteflame grill brings a smoky, caramelized flavor to this classic breakfast favorite. The high heat of the grill adds a perfect crisp to the outside, while keeping the inside soft and custardy. Topped with fresh fruit, syrup, or powdered sugar, this French toast will be a crowd-pleaser at your next outdoor brunch.
Ingredients
- 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)
- Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill
Prepare your Arteflame grill by lighting it with three vegetable oil-soaked napkins and firewood. Let the grill heat for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop reaches medium-high heat.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until smooth. This will form the custard base for dipping your bread.
Hint: If you don't have vanilla, you can use some vanilla coffee creamer instead!
Step 3: Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of brioche or challah into the custard mixture, allowing the bread to soak up the liquid for a few seconds on each side. Make sure it's fully coated, but not too soggy.
Step 4: Grill the French Toast
Melt a few tablespoons of butter on the outer flat cooktop of the Arteflame grill. Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot surface and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Depending on the heat of your grill, you may want to move the French toast to a cooler area of the flat top to finish cooking through without burning.
Step 5: Serve
Once the French toast is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and serve immediately. Top with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh berries, or your favorite toppings.
Tips
- Crisp Outside, Soft Inside: Use thick slices of brioche or challah for the perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft, custardy interior.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of orange zest to the custard mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Even Cooking: Keep an eye on the heat zones of your grill. If the center of the flat cooktop is too hot, move the French toast to a cooler section to avoid burning.
Variations
- Stuffed French Toast: Spread cream cheese, Nutella, or peanut butter between two slices of bread before dipping and grilling.
- Cinnamon Sugar French Toast: After grilling, toss the French toast in a cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet, crunchy coating.
- Savory French Toast: Omit the sugar and vanilla in the custard, and serve the French toast with grilled bacon, sausage, or cheese for a savory twist.
- Banana Foster French Toast: Top with caramelized bananas and a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent breakfast treat.
- Vegan French Toast: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) and use almond milk for a plant-based version.
Best Pairings
- Side Dishes: Serve with crispy grilled bacon, breakfast sausages, or a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness of the French toast.
- Drinks: Pair with freshly brewed coffee, a mimosa, or a glass of cold orange juice to complete your outdoor brunch.
Conclusion
Grilled French toast on the Arteflame grill is a delicious twist on the traditional breakfast classic. With its smoky flavor and crispy texture, this outdoor version of French toast is sure to impress your family and friends at your next brunch gathering.
