Description

Ever dreamed of enjoying a warm, spiced apple dessert under the stars without the hassle of baking? What if you could whip it up in foil packets over a campfire or grill in just 30 minutes? Say hello to Campfire Apple Crisp in Foil Packets! This rustic treat combines tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery oat topping, optionally served with vanilla ice cream and a caramel drizzle.

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling

Apples (6 cups, about 5 apples, any variety, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced): Provide a tender, juicy base with natural sweetness.
Light Brown Sugar (3 tbsp, packed): Adds caramel-like depth to the filling.
Granulated Sugar (1 tbsp): Enhances sweetness and balances the spices.
Apple Pie Spice (2 tsp): Infuses the apples with warm flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.

For the Topping

All-Purpose Flour (1¼ cups): Gives structure to the crunchy topping.
Light Brown Sugar (¾ cup, packed): Sweetens the topping with a molasses-like richness.
Quick Oats (¾ cup): Add a chewy, rustic texture to the crisp.
Salted Sweet Cream Butter (½ cup, 1 stick, melted): Binds the topping and adds buttery flavor.
Apple Pie Spice (½ tsp): Enhances the topping with warm, spiced notes.

Optional Toppings

Vanilla Ice Cream: Adds a creamy, cool contrast to the warm crisp.
Caramel Sundae Topping: Brings a sweet, gooey drizzle for extra indulgence.

Substitutions and Variations

Apples: Use firm varieties like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Pears or peaches can substitute for a different fruit base.
Sugars: Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup, and granulated sugar with honey, adjusting for consistency.
Apple Pie Spice: Make your own with 1 tsp cinnamon, ¼ tsp nutmeg, and a pinch of allspice, or use just cinnamon.
Flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version or almond flour for a nuttier topping.
Oats: Swap quick oats with rolled oats (blend briefly for smaller pieces) or omit for a more crumble-like topping.
Butter: Use vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Toppings: Skip ice cream and caramel, or use whipped cream, yogurt, or a dusting of powdered sugar instead.

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Instructions

Prepare the Heat Source:
- Preheat a grill to 350°F (if temperature-controlled). If using a campfire, ensure a fire pit with a grate and 2–3 inches of hot coals for even cooking.
- Tip: Monitor the heat closely, as campfire intensity varies, and adjust packet placement to avoid burning.
Make the Apple Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together 6 cups thinly sliced apples (peeled and cored), 3 tbsp packed light brown sugar, 1 tbsp granulated sugar, and 2 tsp apple pie spice until the apples are evenly coated.
- Set aside while preparing the topping.
- Tip: Slice apples thinly (about ⅛-inch thick) for faster cooking and a tender texture.
Make the Topping:
- In a medium mixing bowl, stir together 1¼ cups all-purpose flour, ¾ cup packed light brown sugar, ¾ cup quick oats, ½ tsp apple pie spice, and ½ cup melted salted sweet cream butter until the mixture is crumbly and well combined.
- Set aside.
- Tip: Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 15-second increments, stirring to avoid overheating.
Prepare the Foil Packets:
- Tear six 10×18-inch sections of heavy-duty aluminum foil. If using regular foil, double-layer for durability.
- Place each foil section on a flat surface.
- Tip: Use heavy-duty foil to prevent tearing, especially over open flames.
Assemble the Packets:
- Scoop 1 cup of the apple filling into the center of each foil section, spreading it slightly to create an even layer.
- Scoop ½ cup of the topping over the apple filling, spreading it gently to cover the apples.
- Fold the long sides of the foil together over the filling, then fold the ends toward the middle to seal the packet tightly, leaving a little room for steam.
- Tip: Ensure seals are tight to trap steam and cook the apples evenly, but avoid pressing the topping too firmly.
Cook the Packets:
- For a grill: Place the packets around the edges of the grill (not directly over the hottest flames) and cook for 20 minutes.
- For a campfire: Place the packets on a grate over 2–3 inches of hot coals and cook for 20 minutes, rotating packets halfway through for even cooking.
- Carefully remove the packets using tongs and let them rest for 5–10 minutes to cool slightly.
- Tip: Check one packet at 18 minutes; apples should be tender and the topping golden and crisp.
Serve:
- Carefully open the foil packets (watch for hot steam) and transfer the apple crisp to bowls or serve directly in the foil for a rustic presentation.
- Optionally top each serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sundae topping for extra indulgence.
- Serve warm with spoons, perfect for a cozy campfire vibe.
- Tip: Add toppings just before serving to prevent melting or soaking into the crisp.