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.