Camping desserts are a delightful way to end a day spent in the great outdoors. Whether you're camping in a tent, RV, or cabin, there's always room for a sweet treat by the campfire.
The best part is that these desserts are not only quick to make but also incredibly delicious. From classic s'mores to creative twists on campfire favourites, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Imagine biting into warm, gooey chocolate and marshmallow sandwiched between two graham crackers, or indulging in a perfectly baked fruit-filled pie. These camping desserts will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more, making your camping experience even sweeter.
So, grab your ingredients, gather around the campfire, and get ready to enjoy these quick and delicious camping desserts.
Traditional Camping Desserts
Traditional camping desserts often evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort, making outdoor experiences even more memorable. Here are some classic camping desserts that have stood the test of time:
S'mores
The classic camping dessert that never disappoints! Simply sandwich a piece of chocolate and a marshmallow between two graham crackers, then toast it over the campfire until the marshmallow is gooey and the chocolate is melted. The combination of sweet, crunchy, and gooey flavors make for the perfect treat under the stars.
Campfire Banana Boats
A fun twist on traditional s'mores, campfire banana boats are a healthier alternative that still satisfy your sweet tooth. Split a banana lengthwise, stuff it with mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and any other toppings you desire, then wrap it in aluminium foil and place it over the campfire.
The heat will melt the chocolate and marshmallows, creating a warm and delicious dessert that is both easy to make and enjoy.
Campfire Cones
Another simple and customisable camping dessert, campfire cones are made by filling an ice cream cone with your favourite sweet fillings. From mini marshmallows and chocolate chips to sliced fruit and nuts, the possibilities are endless. Wrap the cone in aluminium foil and place it over the campfire, allowing the heat to melt the fillings and create a gooey and delightful treat.
Grilled Fruit Skewers
This simple and healthy camping dessert involves threading chunks of your favorite fruits onto skewers and grilling them over a campfire. The heat caramelises the sugars in the fruits, creating a deliciously sweet and smoky treat.
Serve them on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for added indulgence.
Camping Cobbler
A classic dessert made easily on a camping trip, camping cobbler is a warm and comforting treat. Simply layer your favourite canned fruit (such as peaches or cherries) in a cast-iron skillet, top with a cake mix, and drizzle with melted butter. Place the skillet over hot coals and let it cook until the cake is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling. Enjoy this gooey and fruity dessert straight from the skillet.
Bannock
Bannock is a traditional bread-like dessert that is quick and easy to make while camping. It requires only a few basic ingredients like flour, baking powder, and water. Mix them together to form a dough, then shape it into a round or square flatbread.
Cook the bannock on a greased skillet over a campfire or on a stick over hot coals until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside. Serve it warm with butter, honey, or your favourite camping jam.
Quick and Simple Camping Dessert Recipes
If you're looking for quick and easy dessert recipes to enjoy while camping, look no further. From s'mores dip to grilled banana boats, these simple recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and make your camping trip even more memorable.
Grilled Banana Splits
Slice a banana lengthwise and place it on the grill. Grill until the banana is soft and caramelised. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzle with chocolate sauce, and top with chopped nuts and a cherry. A tasty twist on the classic banana split, perfect for enjoying around the campfire.
Campfire Eclairs
Stuff pre-made puff pastry shells with a mixture of whipped cream and instant vanilla pudding. Place the filled shells on a grill rack and heat over the campfire until the pastry is crispy and the filling is warm. Drizzle with chocolate sauce for a delightful campfire dessert reminiscent of a classic éclair.
Fruit Skewers with Honey Drizzle
These refreshing skewers are bursting with juicy chunks of watermelon, pineapple, and strawberries, threaded onto bamboo sticks. Drizzled with a luscious honey sauce, they make for a delightful and healthy campfire treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Campfire Apple Crisp Packets
Indulge in the comforting flavours of warm apple crisp while camping with these convenient packets. Sliced apples are tossed with cinnamon, brown sugar, and oats, then sealed in foil and cooked over the fire until tender and caramelised. Top it off with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a heavenly dessert.
S'mores Nachos
Take your s'mores game to a whole new level with these irresistible s'mores nachos. Graham crackers are piled high with melted chocolate and gooey marshmallows, then sprinkled with crushed graham cracker crumbs and drizzled with melted chocolate. Perfect for sharing around the campfire, this twist on a classic treat is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Campfire Berry Parfait
Start your day off right with this healthy and delicious campfire berry parfait. Layered with fresh berries, creamy Greek yogurt, and crunchy granola, this parfait is a delightful combination of flavours and textures. Enjoy it as a breakfast or a light dessert while enjoying the great outdoors.
Chocolate Banana Boats
Elevate your campfire dessert game with these decadent chocolate banana boats. Slit open a ripe banana and stuff it with chocolate chips, then wrap it in foil and place it over the fire until the chocolate melts and the banana becomes soft and gooey. Top it off with a sprinkle of crushed nuts or a drizzle of caramel for an indulgent treat.
Essential Equipment for Making Camping Desserts
When it comes to making camping desserts, there are a few essential pieces of equipment that can make the process easier and more enjoyable. Here are some items you may want to consider packing for your next camping trip:
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Campfire Grill or Cooking Grate: This will allow you to cook your desserts directly over the fire. Look for a portable, lightweight grill or grate that can be easily set up and adjusted.
- Dutch Oven: A Dutch oven is a versatile piece of cookware that can be used for baking, roasting, and cooking over an open fire. It's perfect for making campfire cobblers, pies, and other baked treats.
- Foil or Pie Irons: Foil can be used to wrap and cook individual desserts, such as campfire banana boats or foil packet desserts. Pie irons, which are cast iron sandwich makers, are great for making delicious camping pies and sandwiches.
- Skewers for Roasting Sticks: Skewers for roasting sticks are essential for making marshmallow roasting and s'mores. They can also be used to cook other sweet treats, like grilled fruit skewers or campfire cinnamon rolls.
- Mixing Bowls and Utensils: Pack lightweight, collapsible mixing bowls and utensils for preparing your dessert ingredients. Look for durable, heat-resistant materials that are easy to clean.
- Campfire Tripod: A campfire tripod is a handy tool for suspending your Dutch oven or other cookware over the fire. It allows for more controlled heat and easier cooking.
- Campfire Popcorn Popper: If you're a fan of popcorn, a campfire popcorn popper is a fun addition to your dessert-making equipment. It allows you to make fresh popcorn over the fire, perfect for enjoying while sitting around the campfire.
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Heat-resistant Gloves: Protect your hands from the heat of the fire with a pair of heat-resistant gloves. These will come in handy when handling hot cookware or skewers.
Safety Tips When Preparing and Enjoying Campfire Desserts
Ensuring safety is paramount when preparing and enjoying campfire desserts. Follow these essential safety tips to make your outdoor dessert experience enjoyable and risk-free:
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Choose a safe location: Ensure that you set up your campfire in a designated fire pit or a safe area away from any flammable materials such as tents, trees, or dry grass.
- Clear the area: Clear the ground around the fire pit from any leaves, twigs, or other debris that could easily catch fire. Maintain a clear and safe zone around the campfire, free from flammable materials. Ensure there are no overhanging branches or nearby structures that could catch fire.
- Keep a bucket of water nearby: Always have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher close by in case of emergencies. This will allow you to quickly extinguish the fire if necessary.
- Use proper tools: Use long-handled cooking utensils, such as tongs or skewers, to handle food over the campfire. This will help keep your hands and arms away from the flames.
- Monitor the fire: Never leave the campfire unattended, especially when cooking or roasting marshmallows. Keep a close eye on the flames and make sure they are under control at all times.
- Use heat-resistant gloves: When handling hot cooking equipment or removing food from the fire, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands from burns. Oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves are essential when handling hot cookware.
- Be cautious with flammable ingredients: Some campfire desserts may include ingredients like alcohol or cooking oils. Be extra cautious when using these ingredients near an open flame and ensure they are stored safely when not in use.
- Allow the fire to burn down: Before leaving the campfire unattended or going to bed, allow the fire to burn down completely. Pour water over the embers and stir them with a stick to ensure everything is extinguished.
- Properly dispose of ashes: Once the fire is completely out and the ashes are cool, dispose of them in a designated container or scatter them in a safe area away from any flammable materials.
- Follow campground rules: If you are camping in a designated campground, be sure to follow any specific rules or regulations regarding campfires and cooking. These rules are put in place to ensure the safety of everyone in the area.
Conclusion
Quick and delicious camping desserts offer a perfect solution for satisfying your sweet tooth while enjoying the great outdoors. These desserts are not only easy to make but also require minimal ingredients and equipment, making them ideal for camping trips.
From gooey s'mores dip to fruity campfire cones, there is a wide variety of options to choose from that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer chocolatey treats or refreshing fruit-based desserts, there is something for everyone.
Additionally, these desserts can be customised and personalised with various toppings and fillings, allowing you to get creative and experiment with different flavours.
Overall, quick and delicious camping desserts are a must-try for any outdoor enthusiast looking to add a sweet and memorable touch to their camping experience.
