Ingredients:

– 4 cups of thinly sliced apples
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– ¼ cup of granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice

For the crumble topping:
– 1 cup of old-fashioned oats
– ½ cup of all-purpose flour
– ½ cup of unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– ½ cup of packed brown sugar

Optional toppings:
– Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare your campfire or charcoal grill for cooking. If using a charcoal grill, pile the charcoal on one side to create an indirect cooking zone.

2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, cinnamon, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently until the apples are evenly coated.

3. In a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, butter, and brown sugar. Using your fingers or a fork, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Pour the apple mixture into a Dutch oven, spreading it out evenly.

5. Sprinkle the crumble topping on top of the apples, covering them completely.

6. Place the Dutch oven over the campfire or on the indirect cooking zone of the charcoal grill. If using a campfire, you can suspend the pot over the flames using a tripod or place it on the campfire grate.

7. Cook the Campfire Apple Crisp for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. To check for doneness, insert a fork into the apples to ensure they are soft.

8. Once cooked, remove the Dutch oven from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving.

9. Serve the Campfire Apple Crisp warm, preferably with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy addition complements the tartness of the apples and adds a delightful contrast of textures.

Variations:

– Try experimenting with different apple varieties, such as Granny Smith for a more tart flavor or Honeycrisp for a sweeter taste.
– Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the crumble topping for an added crunch.
– If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg or ginger into the apple mixture to enhance the warm spiciness.

Campfire Apple Crisp is a dish that transcends time and connects us to our roots. Its simplicity and heartwarming flavors make it a go-to recipe for any outdoor gathering or cozy evening at home. So gather around the fire, embrace the comforting crackle of wood, and savor the deliciousness of this nostalgic dessert.