There’s something magical about cooking over a crackling campfire, and this Skillet Apple Crisp takes that experience to a whole new level of cozy deliciousness. Imagine the warm, sweet aroma of baked apples and a buttery oat topping filling the crisp evening air at your campsite. This recipe simplifies the classic dessert, utilizing a trusty cast iron skillet to create a rustic and utterly satisfying treat. It’s easy to prepare with just a few ingredients, and the smoky kiss from the campfire adds a unique depth of flavor you won’t get at home. Gather ’round, dig in, and enjoy this taste of autumn wherever your adventures take you!
Campfire Skillet Apple Crisp
This recipe brings the warm, comforting flavors of apple crisp to your campsite. Cooking it in a skillet over the campfire (or a portable camp stove) adds a rustic touch and delicious smoky undertones.
Equipment
- 10-12 inch cast iron skillet (essential for even heat distribution over a campfire)
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Heat-resistant gloves or tongs for handling the hot skillet
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg optional
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice helps prevent browning
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats not instant
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup 1/2 stick cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: In the mixing bowl, gently toss the sliced apples with the flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice.
- Assemble the Filling: Transfer the apple mixture to the cast iron skillet, spreading it out evenly.
- Make the Crisp Topping: In the same mixing bowl (no need to wash!), combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Add the Butter: Cut in the cold butter using your fingers or a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Top the Apples: Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apple filling in the skillet.
- Cook Over Campfire (or Camp Stove):
- Campfire: Place the skillet over medium-low heat coals. You don’t want direct flames licking the bottom, as this can burn the crisp. You can also use a tripod or grill grate to elevate the skillet slightly above the coals. Rotate the skillet occasionally for even cooking.
- Camp Stove: Place the skillet over medium-low heat on your camp stove.
- Cook: Cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, especially on the bottom. You can carefully lift the topping with a spoon to check the tenderness of the apples.
- Cool Slightly: Let the apple crisp cool slightly before serving. It will be very hot!
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
Serve warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream (if you have a way to keep it cold!), or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra treat.
Enjoy your delicious campfire apple crisp! Let me know if you’d like any variations or other camping recipes.
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