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If spending time in nature and making memories with the kids weren't enough reasons to go camping this summer, then these campfire desserts will do the trick! From fruity cobblers made in a Dutch oven to make-ahead cookies that are great for taking on the go, this list has tons of sweet camping recipes that'll get you excited for you next summer trip.
Here, you’ll find fun tricks for cooking over an open fire, like using skewers to make grilled doughnut hole kebabs or foil pack recipes for a fun twist on apple pie. There's even a dessert recipe called campfire cones that will your kids in the family will absolutely love! Of course, no campfire dessert roundup would be complete without s'mores. Here, you’ll find our tips for making the perfect s'mores, plus creative s'mores desserts like make-ahead bars that reduce the mess but keep the gooey marshmallow.
Prefer to put seasonal summer fruits to good use? You'll love Ree Drummond's grilled peaches and pecans, which she calls a "magical combination." There's also grilled pineapple, watermelon, and plenty of reasons to top everything with fresh berries. So grab your camping essentials, portable grills, cast-iron skillets, and outdoor tent, because these summer desserts will get the whole family to gather round the fire!
1
Campfire Cones
The Girl Who Ate Everything
Looking for a s'mores alternative? These treats are so much fun to make and eat! Kids can wrap the marshmallow and chocolate-filled cones in foil, then toss them in the campfire until melted.
Transform store-bought glazed doughnut holes into a fun camping recipe by giving them those beautiful grill marks! Then, serve them up with the fruit sauces that you made ahead.
Sweet, juicy peaches and toasty pecans are what Ree calls a "magical combination." If you're camping in your own backyard, you can serve them over vanilla ice cream!
Most desserts you can make in a cast-iron skillet you can throw on a grill or cook over a campfire, like this ooey gooey giant brownie. Just make sure to watch carefully as they bake, since the temperatures might vary.
If you love the idea of s'mores but don't want to deal with the mess and potential danger, get all the flavor but less hassle by making these s'mores bars ahead of time.
Another skillet recipe that can be made over a fire or grill is this apple skillet cake that just begs for a scoop of ice cream. It would be particularly good come apple season, which starts in the late summer.
Toasting marshmallows is practically required when it comes to camping! Add some melty chocolate and graham crackers (or any type of cookie!) for the ultimate summertime treat.
Funnel cake might not be the first thing you think of when camping, but it's surprisingly easy to make outdoors. All you need is a Dutch oven with oil and a funnel or measuring cup.
Juicy watermelon just screams summer! And when you add it to the grill, it's even more fun. This version is perfect for anyone who likes a sweet and salty treat.
When you grill pineapple, the natural sugars caramelize to bring out extra sweetness. Slices taste unbelievable paired with vanilla ice cream for a simple yet stunning dessert.
Grilling pizza is one thing, but grilling a dessert pizza? That's a whole other level of tasty. And then there are the perfectly in-season blueberries to top it off. That's worth sitting around the campfire for!
Chocolate chip is probably the most popular type of skillet cookie there is―and for good reason! The center stays gooey while the outsides get crispy, which is exactly what we crave.
Grilled Brioche with Mixed Berry and Vanilla Ricotta Cheese
The Noshery
If you're looking for something a little more sophisticated, behold this beauty! Fresh berries and vanilla-scented ricotta top toasted layers of buttery brioche for a not-too-sweet spin on dessert.
Grilled fruit skewers are great on their own, but if you add a simple dip to go with them, they get even tastier! In this case, it's tangy Greek yogurt mixed with brown sugar.
Grilled Pound Cake Recipe with Mascarpone and Berries
Sugar and Cloth
Grilling pound cake gives it an extra depth of flavor. Make your own or go with store-bought to save some time. Either way, smothering it in mascarpone cheese and sweet blueberries will make it irresistible.
Apples, warm spices, and a crumbly topping are all piled onto a sheet of aluminum foil for this easy dessert. After cooking it over the fire for just 12 minutes, they're ready to eat!