Camping is all about connecting with nature, enjoying the outdoors, and creating lasting memories. But let’s be honest, a little sweetness can go a long way in making your trip even more enjoyable.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, whipping up a delicious dessert around the campfire is a tradition that shouldn’t be missed.
The good news is, campfire cooking doesn’t have to be limited to hot dogs and burgers. There’s a whole world of creative and tasty desserts waiting to be explored, from classic s’mores variations to exciting new concoctions.
This list offers 20 camping dessert ideas to satisfy every craving, using campfire cooking methods, Dutch ovens, and simple prep-ahead options.
Classic Campfire Treats with a Twist
S’mores Nachos:
Take your love for s’mores to a whole new level! Spread broken graham crackers on a baking sheet or large piece of foil. Top with marshmallows, chocolate chunks, and any other s’mores favorites like chopped nuts, peanut butter, or caramel bits. Toast over the campfire until the marshmallows are golden brown. Enjoy these gooey nachos with a spoon or for a fun twist, use waffle cones!
Campfire Banana Boats:
This timeless dessert gets a campfire makeover. Slice bananas in half lengthwise and fill them with a mixture of chocolate chips, chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, and a drizzle of condensed milk. Wrap each banana boat tightly in foil and bake over hot coals until the bananas are soft and the filling is melted. Top with whipped cream (if you have a cooler) and a cherry for an extra decadent treat.
Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon:
This simple yet delightful dessert highlights the natural sweetness of pineapple. Cut fresh pineapple slices into rounds or wedges. Brush them with melted butter or coconut oil and sprinkle generously with ground cinnamon. Grill the pineapple slices over medium heat until they are slightly softened and caramelized around the edges. Serve warm with a dollop of vanilla ice cream for a truly tropical treat.
Dutch Oven Delights
Dutch Oven Apple Crisp:
Embrace the comfort food vibes with a classic apple crisp. Combine chopped apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a squeeze of lemon juice in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, rolled oats, butter, and a pinch of salt to create a crumbly topping. Layer the apples in a Dutch oven, then sprinkle with the crumb topping. Bake over hot coals until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler:
Similar to the apple crisp, this cobbler utilizes seasonal peaches for a light and refreshing dessert. Follow the same basic method as the apple crisp, substituting sliced peaches for apples and adding a touch of nutmeg to the spice mix.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough in a Dutch Oven:
This one is for the true chocolate lovers! Prepare your favorite chocolate chip cookie dough recipe at home and store it in a cooler. Once at the campsite, preheat your Dutch oven with a cast iron skillet inside. Place scoops of cookie dough on the skillet and bake over hot coals, rotating occasionally, until the cookies are golden brown and cooked through.
No-Cook and Prep-Ahead Treats
Trail Mix Bars:
These no-bake bars are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth on the go. In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, chocolate chips, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Press the mixture firmly into a baking dish lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator or freezer before your trip. Cut into bars for a quick and easy snack.
Fruit & Yogurt Parfait:
Layer store-bought granola or crushed cookies in a mason jar. Top with your favorite yogurt flavor and fresh fruit slices like berries, peaches, or mango. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness. This is a great option for a refreshing and healthy dessert.
S’mores Cookie Dough Truffles:
Combine crumbled graham crackers, melted chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and a dollop of peanut butter (optional) in a bowl. Mix well and roll into bite-sized balls. Chill in the refrigerator or freezer before your trip. These no-bake treats are a delicious twist on the classic s’mores.
Campfire Concoctions
Campfire Popcorn:
Who doesn’t love popcorn? Take it up a notch by making it over the campfire. Use a cast iron Dutch oven or a popcorn popper specifically designed for campfires. Add a drizzle of oil, popcorn kernels, and a pinch of salt to the pot. Hold the popper over the fire, shaking frequently, until the popping slows. Drizzle with melted butter for a classic flavor or get creative
Campfire Cinnamon Rolls:
These gooey treats are surprisingly easy to make over a campfire. Prepare your favorite store-bought cinnamon roll dough at home and store it in a cooler. Thread the rolls onto skewers and toast them over the fire, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for an irresistible finish.
Campfire Fruit Skewers with Marshmallow Dip:
Thread a variety of fresh fruits like pineapple, strawberries, bananas, and kiwi onto skewers. Toast them gently over the fire until slightly warmed. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk to create a creamy marshmallow dip. Serve the fruit skewers with the dip for a delightful contrast of textures.
Leftover Twists
Campfire Grilled Cheese with Nutella:
Take advantage of leftover hamburger buns by creating a sweet and savory twist. Spread Nutella or another hazelnut spread on one side of each bun. Top with sliced bananas or strawberries. Grill the sandwiches over medium heat until golden brown and the filling is melted and gooey.
Campfire Waffle Iron Treats:
If you’re bringing a campfire waffle iron on your trip, the possibilities are endless! Try sweet waffles using a boxed mix or your favorite recipe. Get creative with toppings like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, fruit compote, or whipped cream. For a savory option, use leftover pancake batter or biscuit dough and add a sprinkle of cheese.
Beyond the Fire
No-Bake Energy Bites:
These bite-sized treats are packed with flavor and nutrients, making them the perfect on-the-go snack. Combine rolled oats, nut butter, honey, dried fruit, and chocolate chips in a large bowl. Mix well and roll into balls. Store them in an airtight container for easy access throughout your camping trip.
Frozen Fruit Pops:
Beat the heat with refreshing homemade popsicles. Blend together your favorite fruits like watermelon, mango, or berries with a splash of fruit juice. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze overnight. Enjoy a cool and healthy treat on a hot day.
Trail Mix with a Twist:
Take your classic trail mix to a new level by adding a homemade granola bar base. Combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, and a touch of honey or maple syrup in a baking dish. Bake at a low temperature until the oats are golden brown and crispy. Break the granola into bite-sized pieces and toss with your favorite dried fruits, chocolate chips, and pretzels for a delicious and satisfying mix.
Adult Indulgences
Spiked S’mores:
For the grown-ups, add a little kick to your classic s’mores. Use flavored marshmallows like peppermint or pumpkin spice. Drizzle chocolate liqueur or hazelnut spread over the graham crackers before adding your marshmallows. Toast and enjoy responsibly!
Campfire Baked Brie with Fruit:
This decadent dessert is sure to impress your camping companions. Wrap a wheel of brie cheese in puff pastry and bake it over hot coals until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Serve with fresh fruit slices, crackers, and a drizzle of honey for a luxurious campfire treat.
Campfire Coffee with a Twist:
End your evening around the campfire with a delightful coffee drink. Combine brewed coffee with a splash of chocolate liqueur, Bailey’s Irish Cream, or peppermint schnapps. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and comforting beverage.
Final Tips
Remember to pack all the necessary utensils, dishes, and cooking tools you’ll need for your chosen desserts. Prepping ingredients ahead of time can save valuable time and effort at the campsite. Consider using reusable containers and storing leftovers properly to minimize waste. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy creating delicious memories around the campfire with your loved ones!
