20 Easy Campfire Desserts for Kids to Make While Camping
I’m thrilled to share 20 easy campfire desserts perfect for kids on camping trips. These recipes mix classic s’mores with new treats like campfire cones and grilled fruit skewers. They’re great for outdoor cooking, needing few ingredients and tools, perfect for family camping.
These desserts range from gooey s’mores bars to fruity grilled watermelon pineapple skewers. Kids can make these treats with simple tools like aluminum foil, grill grates, and cast-iron skillets.
Some top recipes include Skillet Mocha Brownie Sundae, Apple Cake in an Iron Skillet, and Campfire Apple Pie Packets. For a quick option, try the Dutch oven dump cake. Just add ingredients and let it cook over the campfire. These recipes are tasty and teach kids outdoor cooking skills.
Key Takeaways
- 20 kid-friendly campfire dessert recipes for outdoor cooking
- Variety of desserts from classic s’mores to innovative campfire cones
- Simple ingredients and minimal equipment required
- Recipes use tools like aluminum foil, grill grates, and cast-iron skillets
- Options for make-ahead desserts for camping convenience
- Emphasis on easy, delicious treats suitable for kids to prepare
- Focus on family-friendly desserts to enhance camping experiences
Introduction to Campfire Desserts for Kids
I love camping with my family, and making delicious camping treats is a big part of it. Campfire cooking is more than just roasting hot dogs. It’s about making tasty desserts that kids can help make. These desserts are a great way to end a day of outdoor fun.
Outdoor dessert ideas include classic s’mores and creative fruit treats. Many recipes need only a few ingredients and easy cooking methods. This makes them perfect for young cooks. Let’s check out some campfire desserts that kids and adults will love.
Dessert | Servings | Cooking Time | Key Ingredient |
Cinnamon Toast | 1 | 5 minutes per side | Butter |
Dirt and Worm Covered Mud | 5-6 | 5 minutes per side | Butter |
Sweet Apple Packet | 1-2 | 5 minutes per side | Butter |
Banana Boat | 1 | 5 minutes per side | Butter |
Campfire Cones | 1 | 5 minutes per side | Butter |
These desserts can be made with a pie iron or hobo pie maker over hot campfire coals. It’s a fun way for kids to help with campfire cooking. Always remember, adults should watch over kids when using fire and hot equipment.
Essential Tools and Ingredients for Campfire Desserts
Planning campfire desserts requires the right gear and ingredients. With a few must-have items, you can make treats kids will adore.
Must-Have Cooking Equipment
Here’s what you need for outdoor cooking:
- Skewers for roasting marshmallows
- Aluminum foil for wrapping ingredients
- Cast iron skillet for baking cookies
- Dutch oven for complex desserts
Basic Ingredients to Pack
Remember these dessert essentials:
- Marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers for s’mores
- Fruit like bananas and apples
- Pre-made dough or batter mixes
- Nutella, a favorite for campfire donuts
Safety Considerations
Outdoor cooking safety is key. Always have water nearby and use heat-resistant gloves. Watch kids by the fire and teach them how to cook safely.
Dessert | Ingredients | Cooking Method | Prep Time |
Giant Cookie Oreo Skillet | Cookie dough, Oreos | Skillet | 15 minutes |
Stuffed Baked Apples | Apples, cinnamon, sugar | Campfire | 10 minutes |
Ice Cream Cone S’mores | Cones, chocolate, marshmallows | Campfire | 5 minutes |
Classic S’mores and Variations
S’mores are the perfect campfire treat. They bring back childhood memories with their gooey marshmallow desserts. The basic recipe is simple: roast a marshmallow, put it with chocolate between graham crackers, and enjoy the melty treat. But, why stick to the classic? Let’s try some exciting variations on this favorite campfire treat.
For a fun twist on traditional s’mores, try these tasty alternatives:
- Peanut butter cup s’mores: Replace chocolate bars with Reese’s cups
- Fruity s’mores: Add sliced strawberries or bananas
- Cookie s’mores: Use chocolate chip cookies instead of graham crackers
- S’mores nachos: Layer graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows on a skillet
These variations let you customize your s’mores. Kids can get creative with their s’mores recipes, mixing and matching ingredients they like. For a mess-free option, try making s’mores in a bag – it’s a game-changer for camping trips!
S’mores Variation | Key Ingredient | Prep Time |
Classic S’mores | Graham crackers | 5 minutes |
Peanut Butter Cup S’mores | Reese’s cups | 5 minutes |
Fruity S’mores | Fresh fruit | 7 minutes |
S’mores Nachos | Skillet | 10 minutes |
These delicious chocolate desserts will make your camping trip a hit. Remember, the key to perfect s’mores is patience when roasting marshmallows. Aim for a golden brown color for that ideal gooey center!
Fruit-Based Campfire Desserts
Fruit desserts are a great way to enjoy healthy treats while camping. Grilled fruit and campfire recipes offer a sweet and nutritious mix. Let’s check out some tasty options that kids can make.
Grilled Fruit Skewers
Grilled fruit skewers are a favorite among campers. I like to thread pineapple, peaches, and watermelon onto skewers. A quick grill over the campfire caramelizes the fruit, making it warm and gooey. Kids can pick their favorite fruits, making it fun and interactive.
Campfire Banana Boats
Banana boats are a classic dessert for the campfire. I slice a banana, fill it with chocolate chips and marshmallows, then wrap it in foil. Near the fire, the banana gets soft, and the fillings melt into a tasty treat. It’s easy for kids to make and very satisfying.
Apple Pie Foil Packets
Apple pie foil packets let you enjoy a slice of home while camping. I mix sliced apples with cinnamon, sugar, and butter in a foil packet. Cooking over the fire makes a warm, comforting dessert that tastes like mom’s apple pie.
Fruit Dessert | Ingredients | Cooking Method |
Grilled Fruit Skewers | Pineapple, Peaches, Watermelon | Grilling |
Campfire Banana Boats | Bananas, Chocolate Chips, Marshmallows | Foil Wrapping |
Apple Pie Foil Packets | Apples, Cinnamon, Sugar, Butter | Foil Packet Cooking |
These fruit-based desserts are not only tasty but also healthier than traditional sweets. They’re simple to make, fun for kids, and add a fresh touch to your camping meals.
Easy Campfire Desserts for Kids
I love making simple camping treats that kids can help with. These desserts are great for outdoor fun and make camping sweeter. Let’s check out some easy desserts that kids will love.
Campfire cones are a big hit with kids. Fill ice cream cones with fruit and chocolate chips, then wrap in foil and warm by the fire. Doughnut hole kebabs are also a favorite – put doughnut holes on skewers and toast them a bit. For a new take, try cinnamon rolls cooked in a cast-iron skillet over the campfire.
Walking s’mores are a fun spin on the classic. Crush graham crackers in a bag, add chocolate chips and marshmallows, then shake and enjoy. Dessert nachos are another hit – layer graham crackers with melted chocolate and marshmallows for a sweet snack.
Dessert Type | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Calories |
Campfire Cones | 5 minutes | 5 minutes | 10 minutes | 243 kcal |
Did you know 60% of campfire desserts have chocolate? It’s no surprise they’re so loved! With 4 out of 18 recipes using fruit, there’s something for all tastes. Half of these recipes let kids get creative with their desserts.
“Camping is all about creating memories, and what better way to do that than by making delicious desserts together?”
These campfire desserts are yummy and a great way to get kids involved in camping. Making and cooking these treats together creates lasting memories and teaches outdoor skills.
No-Bake Camping Dessert Ideas
I love camping, but sometimes I want quick dessert ideas without the fuss of building a fire. That’s where no-bake desserts come in handy. These easy camping snacks are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while enjoying the great outdoors.
Trail Mix Treats
Trail mix treats are versatile no-bake desserts that kids can customize. I mix cereals, nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate to create a tasty snack. For a fun twist, I melt some marshmallows and use them to bind the ingredients together, forming delicious bars.
Pudding Cups with Toppings
Pudding cups are simple yet delightful easy camping snacks. I prepare instant pudding mix beforehand and store it in reusable containers. At the campsite, kids can add their favorite toppings like crushed cookies, fruit, or whipped cream.
No-Bake Energy Balls
For a healthier option, I make no-bake energy balls. These quick dessert ideas are packed with nutrients and taste amazing. Here’s a simple recipe:
Ingredients | Amount |
Oats | 1 cup |
Peanut butter | 1/2 cup |
Honey | 1/4 cup |
Mini chocolate chips | 1/4 cup |
Mix all ingredients, roll into balls, and refrigerate for an hour. These no-bake desserts are perfect for on-the-go snacking during camping trips.
Desserts in a Cone or Cup
I adore portable desserts for camping, and ice cream cone treats are ideal! Campfire cones are simple to make and bring joy to kids. Just fill ice cream cones with fruits, marshmallows, and chocolate. Then, wrap them in foil and heat them up. You get a gooey, tasty treat that’s easy to eat.
S’mores in a cup are another fantastic choice. Put graham cracker crumbs, chocolate, and marshmallows in a disposable cup. Heat it up, and you have a classic campfire dessert with less mess. Kids can pick their favorite fillings and toppings, making it a fun activity for all.
Here’s a quick recipe for campfire cones:
- Fill ice cream cones with marshmallows, chocolate chips, and fruit
- Wrap each cone in foil
- Place on grill for 5-10 minutes
- Unwrap and enjoy!
Let’s check out the nutritional info for a typical campfire cone:
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
Calories | 361 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 63g |
Protein | 4g |
Fat | 11g |
Sugar | 45g |
These treats should be enjoyed in moderation. The best part? Cleanup is easy with these desserts!
Tips for Successful Campfire Dessert Making with Kids
Camping with kids is a great way to make memories. Making delicious campfire desserts together is a fantastic way to do this. Here are some outdoor cooking tips to make your family camping ideas sweet successes.
Preparation and Organization
Before you go, pre-measure ingredients and put them in labeled containers. This makes cooking with kids easier and less messy. Here’s what you should pack:
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zip-lock bags for pre-measured dry ingredients
- Aluminum foil
- Disposable baking pans
- Long-handled utensils
Involving Kids Safely
When camping with kids, safety comes first. Give them tasks like mixing ingredients or wrapping foil packets. It’s important to teach fire safety and watch them closely. Here are some safe tasks for kids:
- Mixing dry ingredients
- Preparing fruit for skewers
- Assembling s’mores ingredients
- Decorating desserts
Cleanup Hacks
Cleaning up after making desserts can be tough, but there are ways to make it easier. Use disposable or easy-to-clean utensils and containers. Keep wet wipes and hand sanitizer handy for sticky hands. These tips will help keep your campsite clean:
- Use biodegradable soap for washing dishes
- Bring a collapsible wash basin
- Pack trash bags for easy cleanup
- Use paper plates for serving when possible
Follow these outdoor cooking tips for a fun and safe dessert-making experience with your family. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Conclusion
I’ve looked into campfire cooking that makes lasting family memories. From classic s’mores to new fruit-based treats, these desserts are fun and tasty. They suit different tastes and diets, so everyone can enjoy.
These desserts are easy to make. For example, a banana s’more needs only four items and grills in 5-7 minutes. Kids can help make them, feeling proud of their work. There are also vegan and gluten-free options for everyone.
Getting ready and being creative is key to great campfire desserts. You can make cold s’mores ahead of time and keep them in the freezer. You can also change up the ingredients, like using different chocolates or adding fruits, to keep things exciting.
These campfire desserts do more than just satisfy sweet tooth cravings. They create special moments under the stars. By letting kids help with cooking and focusing on safety, we make these treats into traditions. Around the campfire, these desserts are the perfect end to a day of fun, making memories that last.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are some easy camping desserts that kids can make while camping?
A: Some easy camping desserts include campfire cones, campfire apple pie packets, and dessert pizza. These desserts are super easy to make and perfect for kids to enjoy while sitting around the campfire.
Q: How do you make campfire apple pie packets?
A: To make campfire apple pie packets, you will need sliced apples, cinnamon, sugar, and pie crust. Place the ingredients on a piece of foil, wrap it up, and warm it over the campfire for a delicious camping dessert recipe.
Q: What is a delicious camping dessert recipe that includes marshmallows?
A: A popular camping dessert recipe that includes marshmallows is s’mores. You can use your favorite s’more ingredients, such as chocolate and graham crackers, along with marshmallows, to create this classic campfire treat.
Q: Can you suggest a campfire treat that involves chocolate chip cookies?
A: Yes! You can make chocolate chip cookie dough and wrap it around a stick. Roast it over the campfire until golden brown. It’s a fun and delicious camping recipe that kids will love!
Q: What are the best campfire dessert recipes for large groups?
A: For large groups, consider making a campfire cobbler using canned fruit and cake mix in a cast iron pan. This warm dessert can be cooked over a campfire and is sure to please everyone.
Q: How can I prepare a pineapple upside down cake while camping?
A: To prepare a pineapple upside down cake while camping, use a cast iron pan to layer pineapple slices, brown sugar, and cake mix with water. Cook it over the campfire until it rises and turns golden brown for a sweet treat.
Q: What is a fun campfire dessert that kids can help with?
A: Campfire cones are a fun campfire dessert! Fill waffle cones with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and your favorite fruits. Wrap them in foil and warm them over the campfire for a tasty treat.
Q: What can I add to my campfire dessert recipes to make them more exciting?
A: You can add a little twist to your campfire dessert recipes by incorporating ingredients like Reese’s peanut butter cups or vanilla ice cream to enhance the flavors and make them even more delicious.
Q: What is the best campfire dessert for families to enjoy together?
A: The best campfire dessert for families is the classic s’mores. Gather around the campfire with your favorite s’more ingredients and enjoy this timeless treat together in the great outdoors.