Camp Cooking, Camping

10 Campfire Dessert Ideas for Easy, Make-Ahead Treats

There’s nothing better than ending a long day of camping with a sweet, satisfying treat by the fire. Whether you’re craving something chocolatey, fruity, or crunchy, these make-ahead campfire desserts are simple to prepare and quick to serve. Here are 10 delicious ideas, complete with ingredient lists and measurements.

1. S’mores Cones

A fun twist on the classic s’more, these cones are easy to prepare ahead of time and roast over the fire.

Ingredients (per cone):

  • 1 sugar or waffle cone
  • 1/4 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white)
  • 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers

Instructions:

  1. Fill the cone with marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham crackers.
  2. Wrap in foil and store until ready to use.
  3. Place over the campfire or grill for 5–10 minutes, rotating occasionally.

2. Campfire Banana Boats

These gooey, customizable treats are packed with sweet goodness.

Ingredients (per banana):

  • 1 ripe banana
  • 2 tbsp chocolate chips
  • 2 tbsp mini marshmallows
  • 1 tbsp crushed nuts or granola (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Slice the banana lengthwise, leaving the peel on.
  2. Stuff with chocolate chips, marshmallows, and toppings.
  3. Wrap in foil and heat over the fire for 5–7 minutes.

3. Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler

A classic, easy-to-make cobbler that serves a crowd.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans (15 oz each) peach slices in syrup
  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 1/2 cup butter, sliced
  • 1 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

  1. Pour peaches and syrup into a Dutch oven.
  2. Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the top.
  3. Place butter slices on top and sprinkle with cinnamon.
  4. Cover and bake in the fire for 30–40 minutes.

4. No-Bake Trail Mix Cookies

These energy-packed cookies require no cooking, making them perfect for grab-and-go snacks.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 cup oats
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup mixed nuts and dried fruit

Instructions:

  1. Mix all ingredients together.
  2. Shape into small balls or cookies.
  3. Store in an airtight container until ready to eat.

5. Campfire Apple Pie Packets

A warm, spiced treat that’s easy to assemble ahead of time.

Ingredients (per packet):

  • 1 apple, sliced
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup granola or crushed graham crackers

Instructions:

  1. Mix apples, sugar, and cinnamon in a foil packet.
  2. Add butter and seal tightly.
  3. Cook over the fire for 10–15 minutes, then top with granola.

6. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Rods

A sweet-and-salty snack that’s perfect for dipping.

Ingredients:

  • 1 bag pretzel rods
  • 1 cup melted chocolate (milk or dark)
  • 1/2 cup crushed nuts, sprinkles, or coconut flakes

Instructions:

  1. Dip pretzels halfway into melted chocolate.
  2. Roll in desired toppings.
  3. Let set on wax paper before storing.

7. Campfire Brownie Skillet

A gooey, fudgy brownie that bakes right in the fire.

Ingredients:

  • 1 box brownie mix (plus required eggs and oil)
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare brownie batter according to package directions.
  2. Pour into a cast-iron skillet and sprinkle with chocolate chips and nuts.
  3. Cover and bake over the fire for 25–30 minutes.

8. Grilled Pineapple Rings

A simple, caramelized fruit dessert with a smoky flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 1 fresh pineapple, sliced into rings
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

  1. Brush pineapple rings with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon.
  2. Grill over the fire for 3–5 minutes per side.

9. Peanut Butter S’mores Dip

A shareable, gooey dip that pairs perfectly with graham crackers.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows

Instructions:

  1. Melt chocolate and peanut butter in a foil-lined pan.
  2. Top with marshmallows and let melt over the fire.
  3. Serve with graham crackers for dipping.

10. Campfire Churros

A crispy, cinnamon-sugar treat made with pre-made dough.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup melted butter

Instructions:

  1. Roll biscuit dough into thin strips and wrap around skewers.
  2. Roast over the fire until golden.
  3. Dip in melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar.

Final Thoughts

Camping desserts don’t have to be complicated! With these easy, make-ahead recipes, you can enjoy sweet treats without the hassle. Want more outdoor cooking ideas? Check out our guide to campfire meal prep and gear recommendations for your next adventure!