Dutch Oven Desserts: 7 Must-Try Recipes For Sweet Camping Nights

There’s something magical about campfire nights under the stars, and what better way to sweeten the experience than with delicious desserts made in a Dutch oven? This collection of 7 must-try recipes will turn your camping treat time into a delightful highlight, whether you’re roasting marshmallows or enjoying a cozy evening. From cobblers to cakes, get ready to impress your fellow campers with these simple yet satisfying sweets, complete with all the tools and supplies needed for each recipe!

Berry Crisp with Oat Topping

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This Berry Crisp with Oat Topping is a delightful way to end your camping day. With a mix of sweet, juicy berries and a crunchy oat topping, each bite is bursting with flavor. It’s simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for those cozy nights around the campfire.

The combination of tangy berries and sweet, buttery oats creates a warm and comforting dessert that everyone will love. Serve it up with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat!

Tools and Supplies Needed

• Dutch oven
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil (optional, for easy cleanup)

Ingredients

• 4 cups mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Prepare the Berries: In a mixing bowl, combine the mixed berries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Gently stir to coat the berries evenly. Pour the mixture into the bottom of the Dutch oven.
2. Make the Topping: In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour the melted butter over the oat mixture and stir until the oats are well coated.
3. Assemble: Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the berry mixture in the Dutch oven.
4. Cook: Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it over the campfire or on hot coals. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the berries are bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
5. Serve: Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with ice cream or whipped cream!

Banana Bread Pudding

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Banana bread pudding is a delightful twist on the classic dessert that brings together the warm, comforting flavors of ripe bananas and rich custard. Perfect for camping, this dish is simple to whip up in a Dutch oven, making it an ideal choice for cozy nights under the stars. The combination of soft bread, sweet bananas, and creamy goodness creates a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

As the pudding bakes, the sweet aroma fills the air, inviting everyone to gather around. Top it with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel for an extra touch of sweetness, and you’ll have a treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re at a campsite or enjoying a backyard gathering, banana bread pudding is sure to be the highlight of your evening.

Tools and Supplies Needed

• Dutch oven
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Ingredients

• 4 cups of cubed bread (day-old works best)
• 3 ripe bananas, sliced
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
• Whipped cream (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat your Dutch oven: Place it over medium heat to warm up.
2. Prepare the mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Add the bread: Gently fold in the cubed bread and sliced bananas, making sure everything is coated in the custard mixture.
4. Transfer to Dutch oven: Pour the mixture into the preheated Dutch oven, spreading it out evenly.
5. Cover and cook: Place the lid on the Dutch oven and let it bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
6. Serve: Once done, remove from heat and let cool slightly. Drizzle with caramel sauce and top with whipped cream before serving.

Campfire Brownies

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Campfire brownies are the perfect outdoor treat that brings a taste of home to the wilderness. They’re rich, fudgy, and incredibly simple to whip up, making them a favorite for camping trips. Whether you’re gathered around the fire with friends or enjoying a cozy night under the stars, these brownies will satisfy your sweet tooth.

With just a few ingredients and a trusty Dutch oven, you can create a dessert that’s warm, chocolatey, and utterly delightful. Plus, the smell of brownies baking in the great outdoors is an experience you won’t forget!

Tools and Supplies Needed

• 1 Dutch oven
• Aluminum foil
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Heat-resistant gloves

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep the Dutch Oven: Line the inside of the Dutch oven with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar, stirring until well blended. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold in the chocolate chips if you’re using them.
4. Pour and Bake: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and place it over a campfire. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, let the brownies cool slightly before cutting into squares. Enjoy them warm, straight from the Dutch oven!

Peach Cobbler with Cinnamon

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Peach cobbler is a classic dessert that brings a touch of sweetness to your camping nights. With juicy peaches and a golden, cinnamon-infused topping, it’s a comforting treat that’s simple to whip up over a campfire. The delightful aroma of cinnamon combined with warm peaches can turn any evening into a cozy gathering.

Making peach cobbler in a Dutch oven is not only easy but also quite rewarding. You’ll enjoy the crispy texture of the topping paired with the soft, flavorful fruit. It’s a perfect dessert to share with friends and family under the stars.

Tools and Supplies Needed

• 1 Dutch oven
• Charcoal briquettes or campfire
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peaches: In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Stir well and set aside to let the juices develop.
2. Mix the Topping: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is just combined.
3. Layer the Dish: In your greased Dutch oven, pour the peach mixture, spreading it evenly. Pour the batter over the peaches without stirring.
4. Add Water: Carefully pour the water around the edges of the batter. This will create steam as it cooks, keeping the cobbler moist.
5. Cook: Place the lid on the Dutch oven and set it over a bed of hot coals or near the campfire. Cook for about 30-40 minutes, checking occasionally, until the topping is golden brown and the peaches are bubbling.
6. Serve: Once done, let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet

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Chocolate chip cookie skillet is a delightful twist on the classic cookie we all know and love. This warm, gooey treat is perfect for sharing around the campfire after a day of outdoor fun. It has a crispy edge with a soft, chewy center, and the chocolate chips melt beautifully, making each bite a sweet indulgence.

Making this dish is quite simple, and it requires just a few ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together, and it pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream right on top!

Tools and Supplies Needed

• 12-inch Dutch oven
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Oven mitts
• Serving spoon

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: If you’re using a campfire, prepare your coals for even heat. You want a steady heat source underneath your Dutch oven.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
4. Prepare the Dutch Oven: Grease the inside of the Dutch oven with a little butter or cooking spray. Pour the cookie dough into the pot, spreading it evenly.
5. Cook: Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it over your heat source. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness. The edges should be golden brown, while the center remains slightly soft.
6. Serve: Once done, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Scoop out generous portions and top with vanilla ice cream if desired!

S’mores Dutch Oven Cake

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Imagine enjoying a gooey, chocolatey treat that captures the essence of classic campfire s’mores—all made in a Dutch oven! This S’mores Dutch Oven Cake combines layers of rich chocolate cake with melty marshmallows and crunchy graham crackers, creating a flavor that’s sweet, toasty, and delightfully nostalgic. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it a perfect dessert for your camping nights.

With each bite, you’ll get that classic s’mores experience, complete with the warmth of a campfire and the joy of sharing with friends. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or trying it for the first time, this dessert is sure to impress everyone around the fire!

Tools and Supplies Needed

• Dutch oven
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Firewood or charcoal for cooking
• Aluminum foil (optional)

Ingredients

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• Extra graham cracker pieces for topping

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well. In another bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
2. Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chocolate chips gently to distribute them throughout the batter.
3. Layer in Dutch Oven: Grease the Dutch oven with a bit of oil. Pour half of the cake batter into the bottom. Sprinkle half of the mini marshmallows and some graham cracker pieces on top. Pour the remaining batter over, then top with the remaining marshmallows and graham cracker pieces.
4. Cook: Cover the Dutch oven with its lid. Place it over hot coals or on a campfire grate. Cook for about 30-40 minutes, checking occasionally. You’re looking for the cake to rise and the marshmallows to be golden brown.
5. Serve: Once done, carefully remove the Dutch oven from the heat. Let it cool slightly before serving. Scoop out pieces and enjoy the gooey, melty goodness!

Apple Cinnamon Dutch Oven Muffins

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Apple Cinnamon Dutch Oven Muffins are a delightful treat that brings the warmth of home baking to your camping experience. With the sweet aroma of cinnamon and fresh apples, these muffins are moist, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. They are simple to prepare, making them perfect for a cozy night under the stars.

Whether you’re enjoying a campfire or just craving something sweet, these muffins offer a bite of comfort. They’re easy to whip up with minimal ingredients, and cooking them in a Dutch oven adds a unique touch, resulting in a deliciously golden crust and soft center.

Tools and Supplies Needed

• Dutch oven
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Wooden spoon
• Coals or campfire

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup diced apples (peeled and cored)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
3. Fold in Apples: Carefully fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed within the batter.
4. Prepare Dutch Oven: Preheat your Dutch oven by placing it over hot coals or a campfire. Grease the inside with butter or cooking spray.
5. Scoop Batter: Using a spatula, scoop the muffin batter into the preheated Dutch oven, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
6. Cook: Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it over coals. Cook for about 25-30 minutes or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the Dutch oven from the heat and let the muffins cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar!