Introduction
Transform humble apples and flaky pastry into a warm, comforting dessert in minutes with these Campfire Apple Pie Packets! Perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend camping trip, this recipe delivers big on flavor without sacrificing precious time. Get ready to impress your family and friends with minimal effort – it’s easier than you think!
Why This Works
This recipe shines because of its simplicity and delicious results. No complicated pie crusts or hours of baking – just individual foil packets filled with sweet, spiced apples and buttery pastry, cooked directly over the campfire (or on the stovetop!). It’s the perfect blend of convenience and comforting taste. The individual packets make portioning and cleanup a breeze!
Key Ingredients
🍎 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended), peeled, cored, and sliced
🧈 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
🍯 1/4 cup brown sugar
🍂 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
🌰 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
🧂 1/4 teaspoon salt
📄 6 sheets of ready-made pie crust (or puff pastry)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Apples: Peel, core, and slice your apples. Aim for roughly even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
2️⃣ Assemble the Packets: Lay out your pie crust sheets. Place about 1/2 cup of apple slices in the center of each sheet. Dot with a tablespoon of butter and sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3️⃣ Seal the Packets: Fold the pie crust over the apples to form a packet. Crimp the edges to seal tightly. You can fold over the edges and crimp them, or simply fold over and tuck in the loose edges.
4️⃣ Cook the Packets: If cooking over a campfire, place the packets directly on the hot embers for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender. If using a stovetop, heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook for the same time, turning occasionally until golden and heated through.
Handy Tips
- Use a pre-made pie crust or puff pastry to save time.
- For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of maple syrup to each packet.
- Don’t overcrowd the packets; this will prevent even cooking.
Heat Control
Cooking over a campfire requires careful attention. Use tongs to frequently check the packets and prevent burning. Adjust the distance from the embers to control the heat. If using a stovetop, keep the heat at medium to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
Crunch Factor
The combination of tender apples and flaky, buttery pastry creates a delightful textural contrast. The slightly caramelized brown sugar adds a wonderful textural sweetness.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For extra ease, use store-bought pie crust.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
- To prevent sticking, lightly grease the foil before adding the apple mixture.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven before serving.
Gift Packaging Ideas
These Campfire Apple Pie Packets make a charming and delicious gift! Package individual packets in festive baking cups or small gift boxes, tied with ribbon.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl: Add a swirl of cinnamon-sugar mixture to the apple filling before sealing.
🌟 Cranberry Burst: Incorporate a handful of dried cranberries into the apple filling for a tart twist.
🌟 Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling for a bright and zesty flavor.
🌟 Spiced Rum: Add a teaspoon of spiced rum to the filling for an extra kick.
Troubleshooting
- Burnt Packets: If the packets are burning, move them to a cooler part of the campfire or reduce the stovetop heat.
- Soggy Packets: Ensure the packets are sealed tightly to prevent moisture escaping.
- Undercooked Apples: If the apples are not tender, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
FAQ
Q: Can I make these ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the packets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Q: Can I use other types of apples? A: Yes, but tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best.
Q: Can I bake these in the oven? A: Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the apples are tender.
Q: What if I don’t have a campfire? A: These can be easily cooked on a stovetop in a large skillet.
Q: Can I freeze these? A: It is not recommended to freeze these packets.
Conclusion
These Campfire Apple Pie Packets are the perfect shortcut to a delicious dessert. Quick, easy, and endlessly customizable, they’re guaranteed to become a family favorite. Share this recipe with your friends and enjoy the delightful results!
5-Minute Campfire Apple Pie: Busy Cook's Dream
A quick and easy campfire apple pie recipe that can be prepared in just 5 minutes, perfect for busy cooks who love outdoor adventures.
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup granola
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the sliced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon until well coated.
- Place a tortilla on a piece of aluminum foil, add a layer of the apple mixture, top with granola, and drizzle with caramel sauce.
- Fold the tortilla into a pouch, sealing it tightly with the foil.
- Place the foil pouch on a campfire grill or on hot coals for about 20-30 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Remove from the fire, unwrap carefully, and enjoy your delicious campfire apple pie!
Tips
- Pre-slice the apples at home to save time while camping.
- Use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor.