As any experienced camper will tell you, delicious food is an essential component of any successful outdoor adventure. And while savory meals like grilled meats, stews, and chili are typically the go-to dishes for fueling up after a long day of hiking or kayaking, dessert is just as important for boosting morale and bringing people together around the campfire.
Whether you’re a fan of classic camping desserts like s’mores and Dutch oven cobblers or prefer to get more creative with your cooking, there are endless options for making mouth-watering treats in the great outdoors. From boozy concoctions like whiskey apple crisp to healthy options like grilled fruit skewers, there’s something for every taste and dietary preference.
Plus, making desserts while camping can be a fun and rewarding way to bond with friends and family, experiment with new flavors and cooking techniques, and indulge in some much-needed sweetness amidst the rugged beauty of nature.
With that in mind, in this blog post, we’ll explore 41 different camping dessert ideas that are perfect for feeding a crowd or large group, ranging from classic favorites to more innovative and healthy options. So, grab your Dutch oven, fire up the grill, and let’s get cooking!
Classic Camping Desserts For A Crowd Or Large Group
Ah, the classics. When it comes to camping desserts, there are some tried-and-true favorites that simply can’t be beat. From gooey s’mores to bubbling Dutch oven cobblers, these timeless treats are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while enjoying the great outdoors.
So, grab your campfire fork and get ready to indulge in some nostalgia.
1. S’mores
First up, we have the quintessential camping dessert: s’mores. Made with graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate, these gooey treats are a crowd-pleaser for all ages. To make s’mores, simply roast marshmallows over an open flame until they’re golden brown and gooey.
Next, sandwich the marshmallows between two graham crackers and a square of chocolate, and enjoy the melty goodness. For a twist on the classic, try using different types of chocolate (like dark or white), or adding toppings like sliced strawberries or peanut butter.
2. Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler
Next on the list is Dutch oven peach cobbler. This classic dessert is easy to make and perfect for feeding a large group. To make Dutch oven peach cobbler, simply combine canned peaches with sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of cornstarch, and pour the mixture into a greased Dutch oven.
Then, top with a layer of biscuit dough (made with flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and milk), and bake over hot coals for about 30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
3. Campfire Banana Boats
For a quick and easy dessert that doesn’t require any fancy equipment, try campfire banana boats. To make banana boats, simply slit a banana lengthwise (leaving the skin on), and stuff the opening with toppings like mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and chopped nuts.
Subsequently, wrap the banana in foil and place it over the campfire for 5-10 minutes, or until the filling is melted and gooey. Serve with a spoon and enjoy the ooey-gooey goodness.
4. Additional Options
Other classic camping desserts to try include grilled pineapple with cinnamon-sugar glaze, campfire cinnamon rolls, apple pie packets, foil-wrapped brownies, chocolate peanut butter no-bake cookies, trail mix cookies, and campfire popcorn.
Whether you prefer your desserts gooey, crispy, or chocolaty, there’s something on this list for everyone. So, fire up the grill and get ready to indulge in some sweet nostalgia.
Related: 30+ Mouthwatering Stovetop Desserts For Camping
Creative Camping Desserts For A Crowd Or Large Group
Looking to switch things up on your next camping trip? Try these creative camping desserts that are sure to impress your fellow outdoor enthusiasts. From grilled fruit skewers to campfire donuts, these unique treats are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the great outdoors.
1. Grilled Fruit Skewers
First up, we have grilled fruit skewers. This simple but flavorful dessert is a great way to add some vitamins and antioxidants to your camping diet. Simply chop up your favorite fruits (like pineapple, mango, and kiwi), thread them onto skewers, and grill over an open flame for a few minutes on each side.
The heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the fruit, resulting in a sweet and slightly smoky flavor that’s hard to resist. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle the skewers with honey or sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
2. Campfire Donuts
Next on the list is campfire donuts. That’s right, you can make donuts over a campfire! All you need is a can of refrigerated biscuit dough, some oil for frying, and your favorite toppings (like powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or chocolate sauce).
To make campfire donuts, simply separate the biscuit dough into individual pieces, form each piece into a donut shape, and fry in hot oil for a minute or two on each side, until golden brown. Then, dip the donuts in your preferred toppings and enjoy the warm, fluffy goodness.
3. Campfire Quesadillas
For a more savory twist on the classic s’mores, try campfire quesadillas. To make campfire quesadillas, simply fill flour tortillas with shredded cheese, chopped cooked bacon, and crushed up tortilla chips.
Then, wrap the quesadillas in foil and place them over the campfire for a few minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a hearty and delicious dessert that’s perfect for cool evenings around the campfire.
4. Additional Options
Other creative camping desserts to try include skillet brownies with peanut butter frosting, campfire apple nachos, grilled pound cake with berry compote, chocolate-covered strawberries with sea salt, and banana split boats.
With so many unique and delicious desserts to choose from, you’re sure to impress your fellow campers and satisfy your sweet tooth at the same time.
Healthy Camping Desserts For A Crowd Or Large Group
Who says camping desserts have to be unhealthy? With these healthy camping desserts, you can indulge in something sweet without sacrificing your healthy eating habits. From fruit salads to chia pudding, these desserts are nutritious, delicious, and perfect for any outdoor adventure.
1. Fruit Salads
First up, we have fruit salads. A classic dessert option, fruit salads are a great way to enjoy the natural sweetness of fresh fruits while getting a boost of vitamins and fiber. To make a simple fruit salad, chop up your favorite fruits (like strawberries, blueberries, and peaches), and mix them together in a large bowl.
For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle with honey or sprinkle with coconut flakes.
2. Chia Pudding
Another healthy camping dessert option is chia pudding. Chia seeds are packed with nutrients like fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, making them a great addition to any camping diet.
To make chia pudding, mix together chia seeds, almond milk, and your preferred sweetener (like maple syrup or agave nectar), and let it sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, until it thickens into a pudding-like consistency. Top with fresh berries or sliced bananas for a healthy and satisfying dessert.
3. Watermelon Sorbet
For a refreshing and light dessert, try watermelon sorbet. To make watermelon sorbet, simply blend together chunks of fresh watermelon and lime juice, and freeze in a container for a few hours until it’s firm. Serve with a sprig of fresh mint for a refreshing and delicious summer treat.
4. Additional Options
Other healthy camping desserts to try include grilled peaches with yogurt and honey, dark chocolate-dipped bananas, coconut whipped cream with berries, and frozen grapes.
Boozy Camping Desserts For A Crowd Or Large Group
For those who enjoy a little bit of indulgence on their camping trips, boozy camping desserts are a fun and delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth and enjoy a drink at the same time. From spiked s’mores to bourbon peach cobbler, these desserts are sure to make your next camping trip even more enjoyable.
1. Spiked S’mores
First up, we have spiked s’mores. A classic camping dessert with a boozy twist, spiked s’mores are made by adding a shot of your favorite liquor (like Bailey’s Irish Cream or Kahlua) to the chocolate before assembling the s’more. Toast the marshmallow as usual, sandwich it between graham crackers, and enjoy the extra kick of flavor.
2. Bourbon Peach Cobbler
Next on the list is bourbon peach cobbler. This warm and comforting dessert is perfect for chilly camping nights. To make bourbon peach cobbler, mix together sliced peaches, brown sugar, bourbon, and a sprinkle of cinnamon in a cast-iron skillet, and top with a layer of biscuit dough.
Bake the cobbler over a campfire until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
3. Wine-Poached Pears
For a sophisticated dessert option, try wine-poached pears. To make wine-poached pears, simmer peeled and cored pears in red wine, sugar, and cinnamon until the pears are tender and infused with the wine flavor. Serve the pears with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent and boozy dessert.
4. Additional Options
Other boozy camping dessert ideas include rum-infused grilled pineapple, white chocolate and peppermint schnapps hot cocoa, and Irish coffee chocolate mousse. With these delicious and creative options, you can enjoy a sweet and boozy treat while sitting around the campfire with friends or family. Just be sure to enjoy responsibly!