Are you planning a camping trip but worried about missing out on your favorite sweet treats? Fear not, because stovetop desserts are here to save the day! With just a few essential kitchen tools and a portable stove, you can whip up a wide range of delicious desserts that will satisfy your sweet tooth while enjoying the great outdoors.
One of the great things about stovetop desserts is their versatility. Whether you’re looking for a classic s’more, a creative skillet cookie, a healthy berry compote, or an international delicacy like churros, there’s a stovetop dessert recipe out there for everyone. Not only are these desserts easy to make and pack, but they also provide a comforting and nostalgic experience around the campfire.
So let’s dive in and explore 41 stovetop dessert recipes that will take your camping trip to the next level!
Equipment Needed for Stovetop Desserts While Camping
When it comes to preparing stovetop desserts while camping, having the right equipment is essential. While you may not have access to your full kitchen arsenal, there are a few key tools you’ll need to create sweet treats that will satisfy your cravings in the great outdoors.
1. Portable Stove
First and foremost, you’ll need a portable stove. There are many options available on the market, from compact backpacking stoves to larger camping stoves with multiple burners. Consider your camping style and the number of people you’ll be cooking for when selecting a stove.
It’s also important to bring extra fuel canisters to ensure you have enough to last throughout your trip.
2. Basic Kitchen Utensils
In addition to a stove, you’ll need a few basic kitchen utensils. A cast iron skillet is a must-have for stovetop desserts while camping, as it can withstand high heat and is versatile enough to be used for a wide range of recipes.
A pot with a lid is also important for boiling water and cooking ingredients like oats or rice. Don’t forget to bring a spatula, tongs, and a whisk, as well as measuring cups and spoons to ensure accurate ingredient ratios. A cutting board and a sharp knife are useful for slicing fruits or chopping nuts for toppings.
And of course, don’t forget to pack plates, bowls, and utensils for serving and eating your delicious desserts.
3. Cleaning Supplies
Another important consideration when it comes to equipment for stovetop desserts while camping is cleanliness. Make sure to bring a scrub brush and biodegradable soap for washing your utensils and dishes after use. And remember to dispose of food waste and scraps properly to avoid attracting wildlife to your campsite.
With these essential tools in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to create a variety of delicious stovetop desserts while camping. And don’t worry if you can’t pack everything on this list – there are plenty of creative workarounds for preparing desserts with minimal equipment.
Classic Stovetop Dessert Recipes for Camping
When it comes to stovetop desserts while camping, sometimes it’s best to stick with the classics. These timeless recipes are not only delicious, but they’re also easy to make and require minimal equipment.
Here are some classic stovetop dessert recipes that are perfect for your next camping trip.
1. Classic S’mores
First up is the classic s’more. All you need are graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate bars. Toast the marshmallows over the flame of your portable stove until they’re golden brown and gooey, then sandwich them between two graham crackers with a piece of chocolate in the middle.
The heat from the marshmallow will melt the chocolate, creating a mouth-watering combination of flavors and textures.
2. Skillet Cookie
Another classic stovetop dessert is the skillet cookie. Mix together your favorite cookie dough and press it into a cast iron skillet. Cook it over the stove until it’s golden brown and crispy on the edges, but still soft and chewy in the center. Top it off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
3. Fruit Compote
If you’re looking for something a little healthier, try making a fruit compote. Simply heat up some fresh or frozen berries with a bit of sugar and water in a pot until they’re soft and syrupy. Serve it over oatmeal, yogurt, or pancakes for a nutritious and delicious breakfast or dessert.
4. Crepes
For a more sophisticated dessert, consider making crepes. Mix together flour, milk, eggs, and a pinch of salt to create a thin batter. Cook the batter in a non-stick pan until it’s light golden brown on both sides, then fill it with your favorite sweet toppings like Nutella, whipped cream, or fresh fruit.
Related: Healthy Camping Desserts To Fuel Your Next Trip
Creative Stovetop Dessert Recipes for Camping
Looking to mix things up a bit with your stovetop desserts while camping? Try out these creative and unique recipes that will impress your fellow campers and satisfy your sweet tooth.
1. Dessert Pizza
First up is a dessert pizza. Instead of the traditional savory toppings, spread some Nutella or peanut butter on a pre-made pizza crust and top it with sliced bananas, strawberries, or any other fruits you have on hand. Cook it on the stovetop until the crust is crispy and the chocolate is melted, then cut it into slices and enjoy.
2. Campfire Cones
Another fun and creative stovetop dessert is campfire cones. Fill waffle cones with mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and any other toppings you like, then wrap them in foil and cook them over the stove until everything is melted and gooey. It’s like a personalized and portable s’more that you can enjoy anywhere.
3. Pear and Ginger Skillet Cake
For a more sophisticated dessert, try making a pear and ginger skillet cake. Mix together flour, sugar, ginger, and baking powder, then add in diced pears and cook the batter in a cast iron skillet on the stove. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert that’s both elegant and delicious.
4. Sweet Quesadillas
If you’re looking for something a little more unconventional, try making sweet quesadillas. Fill a tortilla with a mixture of cream cheese, cinnamon, and sugar, then add sliced fruit like apples, bananas, or strawberries. Fold the tortilla in half and cook it on the stovetop until it’s crispy and the filling is melted and gooey.
These creative stovetop dessert recipes are sure to add some fun and excitement to your camping trip. And with minimal equipment required, they’re easy to make and clean up, so you can spend more time enjoying the great outdoors and less time in the kitchen.
Healthy Stovetop Dessert Recipes for Camping
Just because you’re camping doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your healthy eating habits. These stovetop dessert recipes are not only delicious but also nutritious, so you can indulge in something sweet without the guilt.
1. Fruit Salad
First up is a simple and refreshing fruit salad. Cut up your favorite fruits like berries, melons, and kiwis, and mix them together in a bowl. Drizzle with a little bit of honey or maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor. You can even serve it in edible cups made from hollowed-out oranges for an extra fun twist.
2. Grilled Peaches
Another healthy stovetop dessert idea is grilled peaches. Cut ripe peaches in half and grill them on the stovetop until they’re soft and slightly charred. Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of granola for a satisfying and nutritious treat.
3. Chocolate Avocado Pudding
For a more indulgent but still healthy option, try making chocolate avocado pudding. Blend together ripe avocados, cocoa powder, almond milk, and honey until smooth and creamy. You can even add in toppings like sliced almonds or fresh berries for some extra texture and flavor.
4. Spiced Apple Compote
If you’re looking for something warm and cozy, try making a spiced apple compote. Cook diced apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a little bit of brown sugar on the stovetop until they’re soft and caramelized. Serve it warm with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert that’s still good for you.
International Stovetop Dessert Recipes for Camping
If you’re looking to add some international flair to your camping dessert menu, you’re in luck. These stovetop dessert recipes from around the world are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and give you a taste of different cultures.
1. Crème Brûlée
First up is the French classic, crème brûlée. While it may seem like a complicated dessert, it’s actually quite simple to make on the stovetop. Whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla extract, and slowly pour in hot cream while whisking constantly.
Pour the mixture into ramekins, and then use a kitchen torch or the broiler to caramelize the sugar on top. The result is a decadent and creamy dessert with a satisfying crunch.
2. Tiramisu
Next up is the Italian favorite, tiramisu. To make this dessert while camping, you can use ladyfingers instead of the traditional sponge cake. Soak the ladyfingers in espresso or strong coffee, and then layer them with a mixture of mascarpone cheese, whipped cream, and sugar.
Repeat the layers, and then sprinkle cocoa powder on top for a finishing touch.
3. Gulab Jamun
For a taste of India, try making gulab jamun. These fried dough balls are soaked in a sugar syrup flavored with cardamom and rosewater. While they may sound complicated, they’re actually quite easy to make on the stovetop.
Mix together milk powder, flour, and a little bit of baking powder, and then form the dough into small balls. Fry them until they’re golden brown, and then soak them in the sugar syrup until they’re soft and sweet.
4. Churros
Finally, for a taste of South America, try making churros. These fried dough sticks are rolled in cinnamon sugar and are perfect for dipping in chocolate sauce or dulce de leche. To make them while camping, mix together flour, sugar, and salt, and then slowly add in hot water while stirring.
Fry the dough until it’s golden brown, and then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture for a delicious and crunchy dessert.
Final Thoughts
Congratulations, you’ve made it to the end of our stovetop desserts for camping guide! Hopefully, you’re feeling inspired and ready to try out some of these delicious recipes on your next outdoor adventure.
As we’ve shown you, there are so many dessert options that you can make on a stovetop while camping, and you don’t need to sacrifice taste or nutrition. Whether you’re looking for classic comfort foods, creative twists on traditional desserts, healthy options, or international flavors, we’ve got you covered.
But more than just tasty treats, making stovetop desserts while camping is a fun way to bond with your camping buddies, or even make new friends by sharing your creations with fellow campers. Plus, the smell of freshly baked desserts wafting through the campsite is sure to make everyone’s mouths water!