Introduction
Stuffed French toast takes a classic breakfast favorite to the next level by adding a delicious filling inside each slice. Grilled on the Arteflame, the French toast develops a smoky, caramelized exterior, while the inside remains creamy and flavorful. You can fill your French toast with cream cheese, Nutella, or any fruit for an indulgent twist perfect for brunch.
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)
- Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries (for serving)
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (or Nutella, peanut butter, or jam)
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries or bananas (optional, sliced)
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 a moderate temperature, perfect for cooking French toast evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. If you're using Nutella, peanut butter, or jam, these can be used directly. If desired, fold in sliced strawberries or bananas for extra fruitiness.
Step 3: Assemble the Stuffed French Toast
Spread the cream cheese mixture (or your chosen filling) on one side of each slice of bread. If you’re adding fruit, layer it on top of the filling. Place another slice of bread on top to make a sandwich, pressing gently to seal.
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, ensuring the bread absorbs the custard without becoming too soggy.
Step 6: Grill the Stuffed French Toast
Melt a few tablespoons of butter on the flat cooktop of the Arteflame grill. Place the soaked sandwiches onto the hot surface and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use a cooler section of the grill to cook through without burning if necessary.
Step 7: Serve
Once the stuffed French toast is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill. Serve immediately with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and fresh berries for a beautiful and indulgent breakfast treat.
Tips
- Even Cooking: Use the cooler sections of the Arteflame grill to cook the stuffed French toast through without burning the outside.
- Thick Bread: Use thick slices of brioche or challah to prevent the filling from leaking out and to hold up well when soaked in the custard.
- Fruit Filling: Fresh or sautéed fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas work well as part of the filling for extra sweetness.
Variations
- Nutella Banana French Toast: Use Nutella and banana slices as the filling for a chocolatey, fruity twist.
- Peanut Butter & Jelly French Toast: Fill with peanut butter and your favorite jam for a PB&J-inspired version.
- Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast: Use a mix of cream cheese and strawberry jam for a rich, cheesecake-like filling.
- Savory Stuffed French Toast: Omit the sugar and cinnamon in the custard, and stuff with ham and cheese for a savory breakfast option.
- Apple Pie French Toast: Fill with cinnamon-spiced sautéed apples for a fall-inspired French toast.
Best Pairings
- Side Dishes: Serve with crispy grilled bacon, sausage links, or a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness of the French toast.
- Drinks: Pair with freshly brewed coffee, a latte, or a refreshing glass of orange juice.
Conclusion
Grilled stuffed French toast on the Arteflame grill offers a perfect balance of crispy exterior and creamy, delicious filling. Whether you fill it with fruit, Nutella, or cream cheese, this indulgent breakfast or brunch dish will impress your guests and family.
