DESSERTS OVER THE CAMPFIRE: SWEET TREATS FOR YOUR NEXT CAMPING TRIP

Everyone loves a good dessert to wrap up a meal, even in the great outdoors. If you’re heading out on a camping adventure and have a bit of a sweet tooth, campfire desserts can be a highlight of the experience. These treats are easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for sharing. Here are three simple yet delicious campfire desserts that anyone can make and enjoy.

1. S’mores Australian Style

A classic campfire treat with an Aussie twist! Instead of graham crackers, we’re using Tim Tams, Australia’s favorite chocolate biscuit.

Ingredients:

• 1 pack of Tim Tams (original or caramel for an extra indulgence)
• Marshmallows
• Chocolate squares (optional for extra chocolatey goodness)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the marshmallows: Roast a marshmallow over the campfire on a long stick until golden and gooey. Kids (and adults) will have fun with this part!
2. Build your s’more: Break a Tim Tam in half, place a roasted marshmallow between the two halves, and press gently to secure the marshmallow.
3. Optional – add chocolate: For a richer s’more, add a small piece of chocolate in with the marshmallow before pressing the Tim Tams together.
4. Enjoy! The melted chocolate and marshmallow pair perfectly with the Tim Tam, creating a warm, gooey treat with a delicious Aussie twist.

Tips:

• If you’re worried about sticky fingers, place a napkin around the Tim Tam s’more as you eat it.
• For a more decadent treat, try using flavored Tim Tams like double chocolate or mint.

2. Campfire Fruit Cobbler

A warm, fruity dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. This cobbler uses fresh berries and cake mix, all baked in a cast-iron skillet right over the campfire.

Ingredients:

• 2-3 cups of fresh or frozen mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries)
• 1 box of vanilla or yellow cake mix
• 1 can of lemon-lime soda (or just enough to moisten the cake mix)
• Butter or oil (for greasing the skillet)

Instructions:

1. Prepare your skillet: Grease a cast-iron skillet lightly with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Add the berries: Spread the berries evenly in the bottom of the skillet.
3. Add the cake mix: Sprinkle the cake mix over the berries in an even layer.
4. Pour in the soda: Pour just enough lemon-lime soda over the cake mix to moisten it. The mix should look a bit lumpy, with patches of dry and wet areas.
5. Cook over the fire: Place the skillet over a bed of hot coals or on a grate above the fire. Cover with foil and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, or until the cake mix is golden and the berries are bubbly.
6. Serve warm: Spoon the cobbler into bowls and enjoy around the fire. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream if you have a way to keep it cold, or some whipped cream.

Tips:

• Keep a close eye on the cobbler while it cooks, as campfire heat can vary.
• Substitute other fruits like peaches or apples if you prefer, or even try a mix of both.

3. Grilled Pineapple with Coconut Sugar

A tropical twist on a simple grilled dessert that’s easy to make and healthy too. Grilling brings out the pineapple’s natural sweetness, and the coconut sugar adds a delicious caramel flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings or spears
• 2 tablespoons coconut sugar (or brown sugar if coconut sugar isn’t available)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth and spice)
• Butter or coconut oil for brushing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the pineapple: Lay the pineapple rings or spears out on a tray or plate.
2. Season with sugar and spice: Sprinkle coconut sugar and cinnamon over both sides of each pineapple piece. Gently press the sugar into the fruit to help it stick.
3. Grill the pineapple: Place the pineapple pieces on a grate or in a grill pan over the fire. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re caramelized and have nice grill marks.
4. Serve warm: Enjoy the pineapple as is, or serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, try brushing the pineapple with melted butter or coconut oil before adding the sugar.
• Pineapple is naturally sweet, so feel free to reduce the sugar if you prefer a lighter option.

These desserts are perfect for a cozy night under the stars, adding a fun and tasty twist to your camping menu. Whether you’re sharing these treats with family or savoring a romantic evening around the campfire, these recipes are easy, delicious, and sure to impress.

Happy camping and happy eating!