15 Easy Campfire Desserts Recipes

S’mores and Beyond—A Sweet Tradition by the Fire

Picture this: you’re sitting around a glowing campfire, the crackling flames dancing in the cool night air. The smell of burning wood mingles with the scent of something sweet, pulling you in for a bite. Whether you’re camping in the wild or hosting a backyard gathering, there’s no better way to end the evening than with a delicious campfire dessert. It’s not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about creating memories, bonding with friends and family, and savoring every moment under the stars.

Campfire desserts have a special way of turning ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. And you don’t need to be a master chef to make these treats. All you need is a little creativity, some simple ingredients, and the great outdoors. Whether you’re craving classic s’mores or something a little more adventurous, these 15 easy campfire dessert recipes will inspire you to get cozy around the fire and indulge in sweet goodness.

Why Campfire Desserts Are Perfect for Your Next Adventure

When it comes to outdoor adventures, campfire desserts are the perfect way to wrap up your day. Why? Because they bring people together, are simple to make, and add that special touch to any camping experience.

Ease of Preparation

Campfire desserts are all about keeping things simple. You don’t need elaborate equipment or hours of preparation—just a few key ingredients and the warmth of the fire. Many of these recipes are designed to be quick and easy, so you can focus on having fun rather than spending hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for Any Skill Level

Even if you’re not a seasoned cook, you’ll find these campfire desserts easy to pull off. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced outdoor chef, these recipes require minimal effort, making them perfect for everyone to enjoy. And the best part? They don’t need fancy tools or complicated steps—just your imagination and a campfire!

Creating Memories

What’s better than enjoying a delicious dessert while sitting around the campfire with your loved ones? Campfire desserts create lasting memories, offering everyone a chance to bond over a shared love of good food. It’s these small moments that make your camping trip unforgettable.

Essential Ingredients for Campfire Desserts

Before you can indulge in these easy campfire desserts, you need to make sure you have the right ingredients. Thankfully, you don’t need to bring the whole kitchen—just a few essentials will do the trick. Here’s what you’ll need to create your next favorite dessert:

• Graham crackers: A staple for s’mores and many other desserts.
• Marshmallows: The classic campfire treat, perfect for roasting and melting.
• Chocolate: The rich, gooey layer that turns your campfire dessert into something special.
• Bananas: A versatile fruit that pairs perfectly with chocolate, marshmallows, and other fillings.
• Peanut butter: Adds a creamy, nutty flavor to almost any dessert.
• Whipped cream: Light and fluffy, perfect for topping off any sweet treat.
• Berries: Fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries can enhance your dessert’s flavor profile.
• Pound cake: A simple cake that can be grilled or toasted for added texture and flavor.
• Cookie dough: Pre-made dough makes for a quick and delicious base for many desserts.

These ingredients serve as the foundation for most campfire desserts. But don’t be afraid to get creative! You can swap ingredients, add new flavors, or experiment with different combinations to make the desserts uniquely your own.

15 Easy Campfire Desserts Recipes

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! Below are 15 mouthwatering campfire dessert recipes that are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

1. Classic S’mores

No campfire experience is complete without the classic s’more. This dessert is a tried-and-true favorite, perfect for roasting over the fire.

Ingredients:

• Graham crackers
• Marshmallows
• Chocolate bars

Instructions:

1. Roast a marshmallow over the fire until golden brown and gooey.
2. Sandwich the marshmallow and a piece of chocolate between two graham crackers.
3. Enjoy the sweet, gooey goodness!

Pro tip: Experiment with different chocolate flavors (like dark chocolate or peanut butter cups) or add a dollop of peanut butter for extra flavor.

2. Campfire Banana Boat

Bananas are more than just a healthy snack—they make the perfect base for a campfire dessert. The banana boat is a delicious, customizable treat that can be filled with all your favorite sweets.

Ingredients:

• Bananas
• Chocolate chips
• Mini marshmallows
• Peanut butter

Instructions:

1. Slice a banana lengthwise, keeping the peel on.
2. Stuff the banana with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and a spoonful of peanut butter.
3. Wrap the banana in foil and place it over the campfire for about 5 minutes, until everything is melted and gooey.
4. Unwrap and enjoy!

Pro tip: Add chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or fruit for added texture and flavor.

3. Grilled Pound Cake with Berries

Grilled pound cake might sound fancy, but it’s incredibly easy to make and adds a sophisticated twist to your campfire dessert spread.

Ingredients:

• Pound cake slices
• Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Whipped cream

Instructions:

1. Place the pound cake slices on a grill or over the fire until slightly toasted.
2. Top with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream.
3. Serve and savor!

Pro tip: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.

4. Campfire Cookie Skillet

For those who love warm, gooey cookies, the campfire cookie skillet is a dream come true. It’s like a giant cookie served straight from the skillet!

Ingredients:

• Pre-made cookie dough
• Chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Press the cookie dough into a cast-iron skillet.
2. Add chocolate chips or any other add-ins you like (nuts, caramel bits, etc.).
3. Place the skillet over the fire and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
4. Serve with ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.

Pro tip: Try using a variety of cookie dough flavors (e.g., peanut butter or snickerdoodle).

5. S’mores Nachos

Take the classic s’mores and give them a fun twist with nachos! This campfire dessert is perfect for sharing with a group.

Ingredients:

• Tortilla chips
• Chocolate chips
• Mini marshmallows
• Peanut butter

Instructions:

1. Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet or foil.
2. Sprinkle with chocolate chips and mini marshmallows.
3. Heat over the fire until the chocolate melts and the marshmallows toast.
4. Drizzle with peanut butter and serve.

Pro tip: Use cinnamon-sugar tortilla chips for a unique flavor combination.

6. Grilled Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

Chocolate and strawberries are always a winning combination. When you throw them on the grill, they get even better.

Ingredients:

• Fresh strawberries
• Chocolate chips or chocolate bars
• Skewers

Instructions:

1. Thread the strawberries onto skewers.
2. Melt chocolate in a small pan over the fire or in a foil packet.
3. Dip each strawberry in the melted chocolate and grill for 2-3 minutes, turning until the chocolate slightly hardens.
4. Serve and enjoy the sweet, smoky flavor!

Pro tip: Add a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-salty contrast.

7. Campfire Cinnamon Sugar Apples

Warm, sweet, and full of spice—these cinnamon sugar apples will bring cozy vibes to your campfire gathering.

Ingredients:

• Apples
• Cinnamon sugar
• Butter
• Aluminum foil

Instructions:

1. Core the apples and slice them into rings or wedges.
2. Toss the apple slices in cinnamon sugar and place them on a piece of aluminum foil.
3. Add a small pat of butter on top and wrap the apples in the foil.
4. Place the foil packet over the campfire for about 10 minutes or until soft.
5. Enjoy these warm, cinnamon-filled delights.

Pro tip: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

8. Campfire Chocolate Lava Cake

For those who love rich, molten chocolate, this campfire version of the famous lava cake is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• Chocolate cake mix
• Chocolate chips
• Eggs
• Water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions.
2. Pour the batter into a greased ramekin or small cast-iron skillet.
3. Drop a handful of chocolate chips in the center of the batter for the “lava” effect.
4. Cover with foil and cook over the fire for about 15-20 minutes until the cake is firm but the center is still gooey.
5. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

Pro tip: For an added twist, add a spoonful of peanut butter or caramel to the center before cooking.

9. Campfire Brownies

Who doesn’t love a rich, fudgy brownie? These campfire brownies are easy to make and perfect for sharing.

Ingredients:

• Brownie mix (or homemade batter)
• Chocolate chips
• Walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the brownie mix as directed on the package or make your own brownie batter.
2. Pour the batter into a greased cast-iron skillet or aluminum foil pan.
3. Sprinkle chocolate chips and nuts on top.
4. Cook over the fire for 20-25 minutes, checking occasionally to make sure the edges aren’t burning.
5. Let the brownies cool slightly before serving.

Pro tip: Serve with a scoop of ice cream or drizzle with chocolate sauce for extra decadence.

10. Campfire Peach Cobbler

Nothing says comfort like a warm, fruity cobbler. This peach version is a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• Canned or fresh peaches
• Biscuit dough or cake mix
• Butter
• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon

Instructions:

1. If using fresh peaches, slice them and place in a skillet or foil packet. If using canned peaches, simply pour them in.
2. Top the peaches with a layer of biscuit dough or cake mix.
3. Sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a small pat of butter.
4. Cover and cook over the fire for 10-15 minutes, until the dough is golden and the peaches are bubbling.
5. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Pro tip: You can add a handful of berries or a bit of almond extract to the peaches for an extra layer of flavor.

11. Campfire Pudding Cups

Creamy, chocolatey pudding cups are the perfect dessert for a night under the stars.

Ingredients:

• Instant pudding mix
• Milk
• Graham crackers
• Chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Prepare the instant pudding mix according to the package instructions using cold milk.
2. Crush graham crackers and layer them at the bottom of small cups.
3. Pour the pudding over the graham cracker crust and top with chocolate chips.
4. Let the cups chill for a few minutes, then serve.

Pro tip: Add whipped cream or marshmallow fluff on top for a more indulgent dessert.

12. Campfire Pie Iron Pies

Pie irons are a campfire essential, perfect for making individual pies filled with all sorts of sweet fillings.

Ingredients:

• Pre-made pie crust or bread slices
• Fruit filling (apple, cherry, blueberry, or chocolate)
• Butter

Instructions:

1. Grease the pie iron with butter and place one layer of pie crust or bread on the bottom.
2. Spoon your chosen fruit filling into the pie iron.
3. Top with another layer of crust or bread and close the pie iron.
4. Toast the pie over the fire, flipping occasionally, until golden brown (about 5-10 minutes).
5. Serve with powdered sugar or whipped cream.

Pro tip: You can also use Nutella, peanut butter, or even marshmallows for a twist on traditional fruit pies.

13. Campfire Ice Cream Sandwiches

A perfect treat for those who want a cool, creamy dessert to beat the heat around the fire.

Ingredients:

• Cookies (store-bought or homemade)
• Ice cream (your favorite flavor)

Instructions:

1. Grill or toast your cookies lightly over the fire for a warm base.
2. Let the cookies cool slightly, then scoop your favorite ice cream onto one cookie.
3. Top with another cookie to create a sandwich.
4. Enjoy your gooey, cool treat!

Pro tip: Roll the edges in sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or crushed nuts for added texture.

14. Campfire Popcorn with Chocolate Drizzle

For a light, snackable dessert, this chocolate-drizzled popcorn is a sweet twist on a camping classic.

Ingredients:

• Popcorn kernels
• Butter
• Chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Pop the popcorn over the fire, using a popcorn popper or a metal pan with a lid.
2. Melt the chocolate chips and butter together over the fire.
3. Drizzle the chocolate over the freshly popped popcorn and toss to coat.
4. Serve warm for a crunchy, sweet treat.

Pro tip: Add a sprinkle of sea salt to balance out the sweetness.

15. Campfire Coconut Marshmallow Bars

If you love coconut, these marshmallow bars are the perfect campfire dessert.

Ingredients:

• Marshmallows
• Shredded coconut
• Graham crackers
• Butter

Instructions:

1. Melt butter and marshmallows together in a pan over the fire until smooth.
2. Stir in shredded coconut.
3. Crush graham crackers and press them into the bottom of a pan or foil packet.
4. Pour the marshmallow mixture over the graham crackers and let it set for about 10 minutes.
5. Cut into bars and serve!

Pro tip: Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for an extra layer of flavor.

Tips for Cooking Campfire Desserts Safely and Efficiently

Cooking over a campfire is a fun experience, but it’s important to stay safe and efficient. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your campfire desserts:

• Safety First: Always have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.
• Choose the Right Tools: Invest in sturdy skewers, tongs, and a cast-iron skillet for safe cooking.
• Manage the Heat: Not all campfires burn the same. Control the temperature by adjusting the distance of your dessert from the fire or using foil packets to prevent burning.

Campfire Dessert Hacks You’ll Love

To make your campfire dessert experience even easier and more enjoyable, here are a few hacks to keep in mind:

• Prep Ahead: Slice fruit, pre-portion dough, and organize ingredients ahead of time so you’re not scrambling when hunger strikes.
• Portable Desserts: Use mason jars to prepare individual servings of desserts, making it easy to transport and serve.
• Quick Fixes: If you don’t have all the ingredients, swap them out! Use crushed graham crackers for an easy crust, or replace marshmallows with chocolate-covered almonds.

How to Serve and Enjoy Campfire Desserts

Now that your desserts are ready, it’s time to enjoy them! Here are a few serving tips:

• Keep it Clean: Use plates, napkins, or even rustic wooden boards to serve your desserts. Reusable skewers make serving even easier.
• Pair with Drinks: Campfire desserts go wonderfully with warm drinks like hot cocoa, cider, or a campfire-friendly cocktail.
• Share the Love: Dessert tastes better when shared, so make sure to invite others to indulge in your delicious creations!

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Campfire Desserts

What are the best desserts to make over a campfire?

Campfire favorites like s’mores, banana boats, and grilled pound cake are great choices. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and packed with flavor.

Can you make campfire desserts without a cast iron skillet?

Absolutely! You can cook most campfire desserts using foil packets, skewers, or even simple roasting sticks.

Are campfire desserts suitable for kids?

Yes, campfire desserts are perfect for kids! Many of these recipes are simple, safe, and fun to make with little ones.

What other toppings can I add to my campfire desserts?

Try adding whipped cream, chocolate syrup, crushed nuts, or sprinkles for an extra layer of flavor and fun!

Conclusion: Create Sweet Memories Around the Fire

There’s something magical about gathering around a campfire and enjoying a sweet treat with friends and family. These easy campfire desserts are the perfect way to add a touch of sweetness to your outdoor adventures. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up these mouthwatering treats in no time. So, next time you’re out in the wild or simply enjoying a night under the stars, make sure to treat yourself to one of these delicious desserts. Happy cooking!