If you’re craving the flavors of classic apple pie but want something quick, fun, and perfect for outdoor gatherings, Campfire Apple Pie Packets are your new go-to dessert! This clever treat wraps up the familiar comfort of sweet, cinnamon-kissed apples in a fuss-free foil packet that’s ready for the campfire, grill, or even your oven. Each bite is warm, gooey, and packed with that irresistible balance of tart apple, buttery richness, and a touch of crunch, making this recipe a true crowd-pleaser for adventurers of all ages.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of Campfire Apple Pie Packets lies in their simplicity—just a handful of pantry staples, but each one brings something crucial to the table. Every ingredient plays its part, building layers of flavor and texture that feel both nostalgic and exciting.
- Apples: Crisp, tart apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) hold their shape and provide that classic pie flavor.
- Brown sugar: Adds rich, caramel undertones and sweetness that pairs perfectly with apples.
- Cinnamon: The essential spice for signature apple pie warmth and aroma.
- Butter: A pat of butter melts over the apples, creating a luscious sauce as everything cooks.
- Lemon juice: Just a splash keeps the apples bright and balances the sweetness.
- Puff pastry or pie crust: Optional, for a golden, flaky top if you want even more pie vibes!
- Granola or crushed graham crackers: Sprinkle on top for a rustic crunch reminiscent of pie crust.
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil: A must for creating sturdy packets that can take the heat of the fire.
How to Make Campfire Apple Pie Packets
Step 1: Prep Your Apples
Start by peeling, coring, and thinly slicing your apples for even cooking. Slices about a quarter inch thick are just right—they’ll hold their shape but soften beautifully as they steam in the packet. Toss your apple slices with brown sugar, cinnamon, and that splash of lemon juice, making sure they’re all evenly coated and glistening.
Step 2: Assemble the Packets
Tear a generous sheet of heavy-duty foil for each serving, then create a little assembly line. Pile a portion of your spiced apple mixture in the center of each foil square. Top each with a small pat of butter; this melts down, mingling with the brown sugar to create a sinfully delicious sauce. If you want a pastry layer, place a small square of pie dough or puff pastry on top before sealing.
Step 3: Seal It Up
Fold your foil over the apples, crimping the edges tightly so no steam escapes—this is key to tender, juicy fruit. It helps to fold up the sides first, then roll the seams for a tight seal. If you’re worried about leaks, double-wrap with a second layer of foil.
Step 4: Cook Directly on the Campfire (or Grill or Oven!)
Pop your Campfire Apple Pie Packets onto the hot coals of a campfire, place them over a medium grill, or slide into an oven preheated to 400°F. Let them cook for about 15–20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when you hear a gentle sizzle and the apples are fork-tender. Resist the urge to peek too soon; trapped steam is what makes this magic happen.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Finish
Carefully open the packets (hot steam alert!), sprinkle over granola or crushed graham crackers, and maybe another little drizzle of brown sugar for good measure. You can close the packets back up for another minute or two to let everything meld, or just dig in right away while it’s all bubbling and fragrant.
How to Serve Campfire Apple Pie Packets
Garnishes
The crowning touch for Campfire Apple Pie Packets has to be a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream—both melt lusciously into the warm apples. A dusting of extra cinnamon or even a handful of toasted pecans adds aroma and crunch!
Side Dishes
Serve these packets after a savory grilled dinner or alongside mugs of hot cider or coffee. If you’re camping, marshmallows roasted over the same fire are the perfect sweet counterpart. For backyard gatherings, fresh berries on the side make it feel extra festive and bright.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving a crowd, bring out the sealed packets on a tray and let everyone open their own for a fun reveal. For an at-home twist, transfer contents to cute ramekins and top with ice cream or serve directly in the foil for ultimate rustic charm. Nothing says “gather round” like helping yourself to a warm Campfire Apple Pie Packet fresh off the coals!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with extra Campfire Apple Pie Packets (a rare but happy situation), let them cool completely before storing the contents in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making a great treat for later.
Freezing
To freeze, simply assemble the apple packets but skip the baking. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to two months. When ready to use, bake straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. The apples come out tender and just as delicious!
Reheating
To reheat, place leftover apple packet contents in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F until heated through, about 10 minutes. Alternatively, pop the foil packet directly on a grill or campfire for a few minutes; this crisps up the topping and restores that fresh-cooked feel.
FAQs
Can I make Campfire Apple Pie Packets in advance?
Absolutely! Prep the apple mixture and assemble the foil packets ahead of time, then stash in the cooler or fridge until you’re ready to cook. They’re just as good whether you prep a few hours ahead or the night before.
Which apples work best for this recipe?
Firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady hold up perfectly and offer the right balance of flavor. Avoid overly soft apples, as they can turn mushy during cooking.
Do I have to use granola or pie crust on top?
Not at all! Campfire Apple Pie Packets are delicious with just the apple filling, but granola, graham cracker crumbs, or a piece of pie dough add a lovely crunch and boost that pie-like experience.
Can I cook these on a regular grill?
Definitely—just place the foil packets over medium heat, close the lid, and cook for 15–20 minutes, checking carefully for doneness. They’re incredibly versatile for any outdoor cooking setup.
Is it safe to put the foil packets directly into the fire?
Yes, as long as you use heavy-duty foil and place the packets on the hot coals rather than in direct flames. This ensures even cooking without burning or tearing the foil.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let your next campout or backyard gathering go by without trying Campfire Apple Pie Packets! This recipe is pure fun and nostalgia, transforming humble apples into something utterly satisfying with almost no effort. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds—so toss a few extra packets on the fire and get ready for smiling, sticky fingers all around.
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Campfire Apple Pie Packets Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Campfire Apple Pie Packets are a delightful, easy-to-make dessert perfect for outdoor adventures or family backyard gatherings. Slices of tender apples are tossed with cozy fall spices, wrapped in foil with a buttery crumb topping, and roasted over the campfire for a warm, gooey treat reminiscent of classic apple pie—without the fuss of rolling out dough.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For the Crumb Topping
- 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- Pinch of salt
For Assembling & Serving
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
- Nonstick cooking spray or extra butter (for greasing)
- Optional: Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Your Campfire or Grill – Build a medium campfire or preheat a grill to medium heat (about 350°F/175°C). Allow the fire to burn down until you have a good bed of hot coals for even cooking.
- Make the Apple Filling – In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch (if using). Toss well to evenly coat the apples with the spices and set aside.
- Prepare the Crumb Topping – In a separate bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the mixture until you have a crumbly topping.
- Assemble the Packets – Cut 2 large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil and lightly grease the center with nonstick spray or butter. Divide the apple mixture between the foil sheets, mounding it in the center. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the apples.
- Seal the Packets – Fold up the sides of the foil and crimp tightly to seal each packet, making sure it’s completely closed to prevent leaks.
- Cook Over the Campfire – Place the foil packets directly on the hot coals or grill grates. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the apples are tender and bubbly and the topping is crisp.
- Serve and Enjoy – Carefully open the packets (beware of hot steam!). Transfer to a plate or eat straight from the foil. Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- You can prepare the apple and topping mixtures ahead of time and assemble at the campsite.
- Try adding chopped nuts or raisins to the apple mixture for extra flavor.
- Use any crisp, firm apple variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the intensity of your campfire; check packet doneness after 15 minutes.
- If you don’t have a campfire, these can be baked in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 packet (1/2 recipe)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 38mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 22mg
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