12 Delicious Campfire Desserts to Cap Off Your Outdoor Meal
After a long day of hiking, setting up camp, or exploring nature, there's nothing quite like gathering around the campfire and enjoying a sweet treat. Campfire desserts can elevate your outdoor experience, providing the perfect ending to a hearty meal. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, here are 12 easy-to-make and delicious desserts that will impress your fellow adventurers.
1. S'mores: The Classic Campfire Dessert
No list of campfire desserts is complete without s'mores. These gooey, chocolate-filled treats have been a camping staple for generations. To make s’mores, all you need are graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate bars. Toast the marshmallows over the fire until they’re golden brown, then sandwich them between the crackers and chocolate. It’s a simple, yet irresistible dessert that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
2. Campfire Banana Boats
Banana boats are a fun and customizable dessert that everyone can enjoy. Start by cutting a banana in half lengthwise (keeping the peel on), then add your favorite toppings—chocolate chips, marshmallows, peanut butter, and even crushed nuts. Wrap the banana in foil and place it on the campfire coals for a few minutes until everything melts together into a delicious, warm treat.
3. Grilled Cinnamon Apples
If you’re looking for a healthier dessert that’s still delicious, grilled cinnamon apples are a great option. Core an apple and stuff it with cinnamon sugar, then wrap it in foil and place it over the campfire. The heat will soften the apple and create a warm, caramelized filling. For extra flavor, drizzle with honey or caramel once it’s done cooking.
4. Campfire Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet
Nothing beats a warm, freshly baked cookie, and making a cookie skillet over the campfire adds a touch of gourmet to your outdoor meal. Place cookie dough in a cast iron skillet and cook it over the fire until golden brown. You can even add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a campfire twist on the classic cookie-and-cream combo.
5. S'mores Brownies
If you love the flavor of s'mores but want something a little different, try making s'mores brownies over the fire. Simply prepare brownie batter as you normally would and add in some crushed graham crackers, mini marshmallows, and chunks of chocolate. Bake it in a foil pouch over the fire, and you’ll have a warm, chewy dessert that’s just as indulgent as traditional s’mores.
6. Campfire Pudding Cups
For a no-bake dessert that’s perfect for camping, consider making pudding cups. Simply pack individual cups of chocolate or vanilla pudding, and top them with whipped cream and crushed graham crackers. For an extra special touch, sprinkle some chocolate shavings or mini marshmallows on top. These are easy to prepare ahead of time and can be eaten straight from the cup, making them a fuss-free dessert option.
7. Foil-Pack Peach Cobbler
Peach cobbler is a comforting dessert, and when made over the campfire, it’s even better. In a large foil packet, combine sliced peaches, cinnamon, sugar, and a biscuit mix. Seal the packet and cook it over the campfire until the biscuits are golden and the peaches are soft. The result is a warm, bubbling cobbler that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
8. Campfire Chocolate Fondue
If you have a fondue pot or a heatproof bowl, try making a chocolate fondue over the campfire. Melt chocolate and cream over the fire and serve with marshmallows, fruit, or chunks of cake for dipping. The creamy, rich chocolate is the perfect treat to enjoy with friends and family as you gather around the fire.
9. Campfire Pies
Campfire pies are an easy and fun way to make individual desserts over the fire. You can use pie irons to press pie crusts filled with your favorite pie filling (apple, cherry, blueberry, or even chocolate). Cook the pies over the fire until golden brown, then enjoy a delicious, crispy dessert with all the flavor of a classic pie.
10. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
For a more sophisticated campfire dessert, try making chocolate-covered strawberries. Melt chocolate over the campfire in a small pot, then dip fresh strawberries into the chocolate. Once they’ve been coated, set them aside to cool, and enjoy a sweet treat that feels both indulgent and light.
11. Campfire Donuts
Yes, you can make donuts over the campfire! Use biscuit dough or crescent rolls, and fry them over the fire in a pot of oil until golden brown. Once cooked, roll them in cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, or drizzle them with a simple glaze. These warm, freshly made donuts are the perfect sweet end to your outdoor meal.
12. Campfire Rice Krispies Treats
Rice Krispies treats are a simple and beloved dessert that’s easy to make over the fire. Melt butter and marshmallows in a pan over the heat, then mix in the Rice Krispies cereal. Once everything is melted and combined, press the mixture into a pan and let it cool. These treats are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them a great option for family camping trips.
Conclusion: Sweetening Your Outdoor Experience
There’s no better way to cap off a day of outdoor adventure than with a delicious campfire dessert. From the classic s’mores to more gourmet options like fondue and cobblers, these 12 campfire desserts will make your camping trips even sweeter. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just enjoying a quiet night by the fire, these easy-to-make desserts will help create lasting memories around the campfire.
If you're planning your next outdoor getaway and want to explore more incredible camping experiences, visit Pine Cliff Resort for tips, gear, and exclusive offers on your perfect camping trip.
