Delicious Apple Crisp Recipe for the Campfire

When it comes to outdoor cooking, nothing quite matches the charm of a campfire dessert. Among the plethora of options, apple crisp stands out as a warm, comforting dish that combines the sweetness of apples with the crunch of a buttery topping. In this article, we will guide you through creating the perfect campfire apple crisp, ensuring it becomes a beloved staple in your outdoor culinary repertoire.

Gathering Your Ingredients

Before you embark on your campfire adventure, it’s essential to prepare your ingredients. Here’s what you will need:

• Apples (about 6 medium-sized, preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• Brown sugar (3/4 cup)
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup)
• Oats (1 cup, rolled oats work best)
• All-purpose flour (1 cup)
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
• Butter (1/2 cup, unsalted, softened)
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon, optional)
• Lemon juice (2 tablespoons, to prevent browning of apples)

Selecting the Perfect Apples

Choosing the right apples is crucial for achieving a delicious apple crisp. We recommend using a mix of sweet and tart varieties. Granny Smith apples provide the necessary tartness, while Honeycrisp apples add sweetness and a delightful texture. The balance of flavors will ensure your crisp is neither too sweet nor too sour.

Preparing the Campfire

Building Your Fire

To create the perfect ambiance for cooking, start by building a well-structured campfire. Use dry, seasoned wood and create a teepee shape to promote airflow. Once the fire is established, allow it to burn down until you have a bed of glowing coals. This will provide the ideal heat for baking your apple crisp.

Safety First

Always prioritize safety when cooking over an open flame. Keep a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby, and ensure your cooking area is clear of flammable materials. Use long-handled tools to manage your food and avoid getting too close to the flames.

Making the Apple Filling

1. Prep the Apples: Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples into thin wedges. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps prevent browning.
2. Layer the Apples: Spread the apple mixture evenly in a cast-iron skillet or a heavy-duty aluminum foil pan. If using a skillet, make sure it is well-seasoned to prevent sticking.

Creating the Topping

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. This mixture will provide the crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft apples.
2. Incorporate the Butter: Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crisp texture.
3. Assemble the Crisp: Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples in the skillet, ensuring all the fruit is well covered. For an added touch, drizzle a little vanilla extract over the topping.

Cooking the Apple Crisp

Setting Up for Baking

Place your skillet or pan over the coals, using rocks or a grill grate if necessary to create a stable cooking surface. Cover the pan with a piece of aluminum foil to trap heat and moisture, which will help the apples cook evenly and the topping to crisp up.

Cooking Time

Let the apple crisp bake for about 25-30 minutes, checking occasionally. The goal is to achieve a golden brown topping while ensuring the apples are tender. If you notice the top browning too quickly, simply move the pan to a cooler part of the fire.

Serving Your Campfire Apple Crisp

Once your apple crisp is done, carefully remove it from the fire using heat-resistant gloves. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. For an indulgent touch, serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top. The warm, gooey apples paired with the crispy topping and a scoop of ice cream creates a heavenly experience that everyone will love.

Pairing Suggestions

For the ultimate outdoor dining experience, consider pairing your apple crisp with campfire hot chocolate or a sparkling cider. These beverages complement the dessert beautifully, adding to the cozy atmosphere of your camping trip.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with any leftovers (which is rare!), you can store the apple crisp in an airtight container. It will keep for a couple of days, but for the best texture, we recommend reheating it in the oven or over a campfire before serving.

Conclusion

Crafting a campfire apple crisp is not only simple but also a delightful way to enjoy a classic dessert in the great outdoors. The combination of sweet apples, crunchy topping, and the magic of a campfire makes for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re camping with friends or enjoying a family outing, this recipe is sure to become a cherished tradition.