Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler: A Campfire Delight
Table of Contents
Introduction:
Welcome, fellow campers, to the wonderful world of outdoor cooking! As a seasoned camper, I understand the joy and satisfaction of creating delicious meals amidst nature’s embrace. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a delightful recipe for Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler. This mouthwatering dessert captures the essence of camping: simplicity, warmth, and indulgence. So, let’s get started and whip up a cobbler that will have your taste buds singing by the campfire!
Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler Recipe:
Serving Size: This recipe serves 6-8 hungry campers.
Prep Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Total Cooking Time: Around 45-50 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
– 8-10 fresh peaches, ripe and juicy (you can also use canned peaches if fresh ones are not available)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust according to the sweetness of the peaches)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for a tangy twist)
For the Cobbler Topping:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cooking Tools:
To ensure your Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler turns out perfectly, I recommend using the following cooking tools:
1. A 12-inch cast-iron Dutch oven: This versatile pot retains heat evenly, making it perfect for baking over an open fire.
2. A pair of heat-resistant gloves or oven mitts: These will protect your hands while handling the hot Dutch oven.
3. A lid lifter or pair of long-handled tongs: Essential for safely removing the hot lid from the Dutch oven during cooking.
Instructions:
1. Prepare your campfire and ensure you have enough hot coals for cooking. You’ll need a good bed of coals both on top and below the Dutch oven.
2. Begin by preparing the peach filling. If using fresh peaches, peel, pit, and slice them into bite-sized pieces. If using canned peaches, drain them well. In a large bowl, combine the peaches, granulated sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, salt, and lemon juice (if desired). Toss gently to coat the peaches evenly.
3. Grease the inside of your Dutch oven using butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the peach filling into the Dutch oven, spreading it out evenly.
4. Now, let’s prepare the cobbler topping. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cubed cold butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into pea-sized pieces. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs.
5. In a small bowl, combine the milk and vanilla extract. Gradually pour the milk mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a dense cobbler topping.
6. Spoon dollops of the cobbler batter evenly over the peach filling in the Dutch oven. The batter will spread and rise during baking, so it’s okay if it’s not perfectly smooth.
7. Place the lid on the Dutch oven and carefully transfer it to the prepared campfire. Arrange hot coals on top of the lid, and place some underneath the Dutch oven as well. This will create a consistent heat source for baking.
8. Allow the Dutch oven peach cobbler to bake for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the cobbler topping turns golden brown. Keep an eye on the coals, adjusting the heat as needed by adding or removing coals to maintain a moderate temperature.
9. Once the cobbler is done, carefully remove the Dutch oven from the fire using heat-resistant gloves or oven mitts. Place it on a heat-safe surface and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Pros and Cons of Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler:
Pros:
1. Campfire Charm: The combination of ripe peaches and warm spices in this cobbler will create a truly comforting and nostalgic camping experience.
2. Versatile: This recipe allows for flexibility in ingredient choices. Fresh or canned peaches can be used interchangeably, depending on what’s available.
3. Crowd-Pleaser: The Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler serves a generous number of people, making it perfect for sharing with your camping buddies or hosting a small gathering around the campfire.
4. Easy Cleanup: With only one dish to cook and serve in, cleanup becomes a breeze, allowing you more time to enjoy the great outdoors.
Cons:
1. Cooking Time: Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler requires a longer cooking time compared to some other campfire desserts. However, the end result is well worth the wait!
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes:
The Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with a few optional serving suggestions and side dishes:
– Serve the warm cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
– Sprinkle some chopped pecans or almonds on top of the cobbler just before serving for added texture and nutty flavor.
– Consider serving the cobbler alongside a hot cup of freshly brewed coffee, tea, or a refreshing glass of lemonade to complete the camping dessert experience.
Conclusion:
Congratulations, dear newbie campers! You’ve just discovered the delightful Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler recipe, perfect for bringing a touch of indulgence to your camping adventures. I hope this recipe has inspired you to explore the world of outdoor cooking and savor the wonders of nature while enjoying delicious meals. Remember to have the right tools, such as a cast-iron Dutch oven, and follow the instructions carefully for the best results.
Thank you for stopping by our website, and be sure to explore more of our recipes for delectable campfire treats. Happy camping and happy cooking!
More Dutch Oven Recipes: Dutch Oven Lasagna, Dutch Oven Corn Bread, Dutch Oven Chilli Pie
Here are some camping related links that might be helpful.
| Free Campsite Map | https://freecampsites.net/ |
| Free Campsite | https://www.campendium.com/ |
| Recreation | https://www.recreation.gov/ |
| Campground Passes for Seniors | https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm |