Grilled Bananas Foster French Toast on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Bananas Foster French toast is a decadent and flavorful twist on the classic French toast recipe, featuring a rich caramelized banana topping. Grilling the French toast on the Arteflame adds a subtle smokiness that perfectly complements the sweet, buttery banana topping. This dish is perfect for brunch or a special breakfast 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 Bananas Foster Topping:

• 4 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup dark rum (optional for flame-cooking)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Maple syrup (for drizzling)
• 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 a medium-high temperature, perfect for grilling French toast and preparing the bananas foster topping.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until smooth. This custard will soak the bread slices to create that rich French toast texture.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

Dip each slice of brioche or challah into the custard mixture, allowing the bread to absorb the liquid for a few seconds on each side. Ensure the slices are fully coated but not overly 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 slightly crispy. Move the French toast to a cooler area of the flat top if needed to prevent burning.

Step 5: Prepare the Bananas Foster Topping

On the grill, melt the butter in a grill-safe skillet or cast iron pan. Add the brown sugar and stir until it begins to dissolve and caramelize. Add the sliced bananas and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and caramelize. Stir in the cinnamon and vanilla extract. For a classic Bananas Foster flame effect, carefully add the rum and allow it to ignite briefly, then let the flame die down as the alcohol burns off (optional).

Step 6: Serve

Top each slice of grilled French toast with a generous spoonful of the caramelized bananas foster topping. Drizzle with maple syrup and dust with powdered sugar. Add a dollop of whipped cream if desired for an extra touch of indulgence.

Tips

• Custard-Soaked Bread: Use thick slices of brioche or challah bread to ensure the toast holds up well after soaking and grilling.
• Caramelizing Bananas: Keep an eye on the bananas as they caramelize—remove them from the heat just as they start to soften to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Flame Option: If you don’t want to use rum for the flame effect, the bananas will still caramelize beautifully without it.

Variations

1. Chocolate Banana Foster French Toast: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or Nutella for a chocolatey twist.
2. Nutty Banana Foster: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the top for extra crunch and flavor.
3. Coconut Bananas Foster: Add a tablespoon of coconut rum to the topping and garnish with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical spin.
4. Berry Banana Foster: Include fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries with the caramelized bananas for a fruity variation.
5. Savory Twist: Use less sugar in the French toast and top with caramelized bananas and bacon for a sweet-savory combination.

Best Pairings

• Side Dishes: Serve with crispy grilled bacon, breakfast sausages, or a fresh fruit salad to complement the richness of the dish.
• Drinks: Pair with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, a caramel latte, or a mimosa for a special brunch experience.

Conclusion

Grilled Bananas Foster French toast on the Arteflame grill combines the smoky flavor of grilled French toast with the sweet, buttery richness of caramelized bananas. This indulgent breakfast or brunch dish is perfect for special occasions, and the caramelized banana topping adds a layer of decadence that everyone will love.