Around the Campfire
Camp apple crisp gives you the comfort of a baked dessert without needing an oven. It is warm, sweet, and easy to build from sturdy ingredients that travel well.
Why This Recipe Works
The Blackstone softens the apples while butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon make a quick syrup. Granola brings the crisp topping without a baking step.
Quick Facts
- Serves: 4
- Heat zone: Low to medium-low
- Best for: Cool nights, simple desserts, family camp treats
- Teaches: Griddle fruit dessert timing
Shopping List
- Apples
- Butter
- Brown sugar
- Granola
- Cinnamon
Home Prep
Pack brown sugar and cinnamon together. Slice apples at camp or prep shortly before use.
Cooler Packing
Apples usually do not need cooler space unless sliced. Keep butter cold.
Equipment
- Blackstone griddle
- Spatula
- Bowl or foil pan for serving
Heat Zones
Use low to medium-low heat. Gentle heat lets the centers cook before the outside over-browns.
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples, cored and sliced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 cup granola
Instructions
- Preheat the griddle on low to medium-low.
- Cook 4 sliced apples with 4 tablespoons butter until softened.
- Add 1/3 cup brown sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon.
- Toss until warm and glossy.
- Move to serving bowls.
- Top with 1 cup granola and serve.
Doneness
Apples should be warm and softened but not mushy.
Common Mistakes
- Cooking too hot.
- Adding granola on the griddle.
- Slicing apples too thin.
Serving Suggestions
Serve plain, with whipped topping, or over pancakes.
Variations
- Add 1/4 cup raisins.
- Add 1/4 cup chopped nuts.
- Use 4 medium pears instead of apples.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free granola.
- Dairy-free: Use oil or dairy-free butter.
- Vegan: Use plant-based butter.
Scaling
Cook apples in batches for larger groups and top each bowl separately.
Weather Notes
This is a strong cool-weather dessert because it smells warm and travels well.
Leftovers
Use leftovers on oatmeal, pancakes, yogurt, or oatcakes.
Kid Helper Tasks
Kids can sprinkle granola after the hot work is done.
Dragonfly Tip
Granola goes on at the end. That keeps the crisp part crisp.
Dragonfly Challenge
Try one bowl with granola and one with crushed cookies. Pick the camp dessert winner.