Grilled Cranberry Walnut Bread – Wisconsin Style

Introduction

Warm, buttery, and irresistibly crisp—grilled cranberry walnut bread is about to become your new favorite grilled treat. Using the Arteflame grill, we take artisan cranberry walnut bread and sear it on the flat top griddle to give it a deep caramelized crunch while bringing out its nutty and tart flavors. Whether it's a breakfast delight or afternoon snack, this Wisconsin-style grilled bread makes for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s beautifully simple and full of flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf cranberry walnut artisan bread, sliced 3/4-inch thick
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• Optional: cinnamon sugar for sprinkling
• Optional: honey or maple syrup drizzle
• Optional: whipped mascarpone or cream cheese, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a small amount of vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the oiled napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack dry firewood on top of the napkins.
4. Light the napkins and allow the firewood to catch.
5. Let the grill heat for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop is evenly hot.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

1. Slice your cranberry walnut bread into 3/4-inch thick slices. Avoid cutting too thin or it might dry out too quickly.
2. Generously spread soft butter on both sides of each bread slice. Make sure edges are well-coated since that's where you'll get maximum crispiness.

Step 3: Grill the Bread

1. Place the buttered bread slices directly on the flat griddle cooktop closer to the center where it's hotter, but not on the actual grill grate.
2. Grill each slice for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Watch closely to avoid over-toasting since the Arteflame gives an even but quick sear.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove from the grill and serve immediately.
2. Optional: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or drizzle lightly with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
3. Top with a dollop of whipped mascarpone or cream cheese if desired.

Tips

• Butter is key here—not only for a rich flavor but to create that golden crisp sear on the flat cooktop without burning.
• Serve the bread warm off the grill for best texture and flavor.
• Place the bread slices closer to the center for a deeper sear, farther out if you want a lighter toasting.
• You can grill all slices at once; the Arteflame’s wide surface makes it easy.

Variations

1. Apple Cinnamon Bread: Substitute cranberry walnut bread with fresh apple cinnamon bread for a warm, fall-inspired flavor.
2. Savory Rosemary Olive Bread: Swap in a crusty rosemary olive loaf and serve with whipped feta for a savory variation.
3. Grilled Banana Nut Bread: Use banana nut bread for a caramelized sweet twist, pair with honey butter or vanilla whipped cream.
4. Cranberry Pecan Bread with Brie: Slice brie onto the bread after grilling for a creamy, rich take with extra nuttiness.
5. Chocolate Cherry Bread: Grill chocolate cherry loaf slices for a dessert-style treat elevated with a dollop of vanilla mascarpone.

Conclusion

This Wisconsin-style grilled cranberry walnut bread is proof that you don’t need complex ingredients or tools to make something truly delicious. With the Arteflame grill, rustic bread transforms into a crispy, buttery showstopper that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful. From brunches to fireside snacks, it’s a quick and delicious way to impress.

Best Pairings

• Fresh brewed Wisconsin dark roast coffee
• Cold apple cider (hard or non-alcoholic)
• Grilled breakfast sausage or bacon on the side
• Bubbly champagne for festive brunches
• Fruit salad with citrus and berries