Just as much as the thrill of camping lies in the great outdoors, so too does the enjoyment come from sharing those moments with others. Whether it’s a family outing or a solo excursion, there’s something special about breaking bread (or snacks) around the campsite. Most of us are familiar with the traditional campfire treats like s’mores and banana boats, but what about the rest?
Jotted down below are some quick and easy recipes that can be prepared at home, packaged up neatly, and enjoyed on-the-go. Many of these don’t even require a stovetop or oven, making them perfect for a family camping trip or a solo adventure. With a few exceptions – such as those aforementioned treats – most snacks fall into this category. They’re all about being simple to prepare, packable, and enjoyable in the midst of nature.
So if you’re planning a scouting trip with your little one, or just need some ideas for your next outdoor escapade, take a look at these tasty options!
Granola Bars
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more convenient or delicious snack for outdoor activities than these five-ingredient granola bars. Made with just dates, maple syrup, natural peanut (or almond) butter, roasted almonds, and rolled oats, they’re the perfect combination of energy-providing ingredients without any heavy additives. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make – 10 granola bars can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making them a great option for camping trips or family hikes.
Plus, their subtle salty and nutty flavors are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Trail Mix
Understanding the versatility of trail mix, it’s no surprise that making your own is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts. By creating your own custom blend, you can not only save money but also tailor the mix to your individual tastes and preferences. This approach eliminates the need to sift through pre-mixed options at the store, which often contain ingredients that may not align with your dietary needs or personal favorites.
Fortunately, there are three simple recipes to get you started, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just beginning to explore the great outdoors.
Apple Chips
Known for their convenience and delicious taste, dried apple chips are a popular snack among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. One of the best things about making them is that it’s incredibly easy, especially if you have an air fryer. Simply slice your apples thinly and sprinkle with salt and cinnamon to enhance the flavor. In just 30 minutes or less, you can enjoy crispy and crunchy apple slices that provide a boost of energy and satisfaction on long hikes.
Alabama Fire Crackers
Flavors that are bold and spicy can be quite addictive, especially when it comes to snacks like Alabama fire crackers. These simple treats require just a few ingredients: saltine crackers, olive oil, and a blend of basic spices. To make them, simply submerge the crackers in the oil and spice mixture for an extended period, such as overnight, before baking them the following day. The result is a snack that packs a punch with each bite, delivering a robust flavor and a noticeable kick of heat.
Cowboy Cookies
Relying on a classic combination of flavors and textures, this recipe is perfect for those who adore sweet, crispy-edged cookies with tender, chewy middles. Rather than using standard cookie ingredients alone, rolled oats are added to enhance the overall character of these treats. The oats undergo a delightful transformation as they crisp up around the edges, while the center of each cookie remains soft, buttery, and full of gooey chocolate chips.
Potato Chips
Potato enthusiasts often claim that homemade potato chips are the pinnacle of snacking achievement, and they’re not wrong. While store-bought varieties can be satisfying, there’s something special about biting into a crispy, freshly made chip that’s been crafted with love. The key to success lies in the preparation process – thinly slicing the potatoes and achieving uniformity for each chip is crucial.
To get it right, you’ll need to experiment with different cutting techniques until you find one that yields consistently thin slices. Once you’ve got your slicing technique down pat, it’s time to think about seasoning. While classic combinations like salt and vinegar are always a hit, feel free to get creative and try new flavor pairings – for me, it’s all about the perfect balance of salt, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne pepper that elevates these humble chips to new heights.
Chocolate Chip Cookies
You’ll be amazed at how quickly you fall in love with this DoubleTree Hotel cookie recipe once you try it. Not having to leave home to indulge in a warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie after check-in is just one of the many perks. The addition of chopped walnuts gives these cookies a delightful texture and nutty flavor, but aside from that, they are incredibly soft and sweet.
The combination of textures and flavors will transport you to the comfort of a DoubleTree Hotel without ever stepping foot in one.
Banana Wraps
Making healthy snacks on-the-go has never been easier with these pre-made banana wraps. They’re not only a great option for busy mornings but also perfect for camping trips since they require just three ingredients and no cooking at all. Simply choose your favorite nut butter, whether it’s peanut, almond, or Nutella, spread it over your tortilla, add sliced banana, roll up the wrap, and slice it in two for a quick and delicious snack.
Caramel Corn
Not only is homemade caramel corn incredibly tasty, but it’s also surprisingly nuanced. Its texture is a masterclass in contrast – crunchy, chewy, and sticky all at once. But what truly sets it apart is its rich flavor profile, which is both simple and complex at the same time. With vanilla, butter, cayenne pepper, corn syrup, salt, and other subtle ingredients working together in harmony, each bite offers a unique experience that’s equal parts sweet, savory, and spicy.
S’mores
Perfect for campers and backyard enthusiasts alike, this recipe allows you to enjoy the classic s’mores experience anywhere, not just at the campsite. The convenience of making them indoors is a bonus, but let’s be honest – there’s something special about roasting marshmallows over an open flame that can’t be replicated in a kitchen.
Fortunately, packing for a camping trip or gathering doesn’t have to be a hassle, as all you need are the essentials: graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate bars. With such minimal ingredients and equipment required, there’s no excuse not to indulge in these gooey, chocolatey treats whenever the craving strikes.
Banana Chips
You’ll be happy to know that bananas don’t have to be eaten fresh to be enjoyed. In fact, preparing them in advance can make them more convenient to eat on-the-go. By slicing them into thin rounds and soaking them in a mixture of lemon juice, you can create delicious banana chips that are perfect for snacking. The acidity of the lemon juice not only helps to preserve the bananas but also adds a tangy flavor that complements their natural sweetness.
Rice Krispies
Pleasing crowds of all ages is a hallmark of classic Rice Krispie treats. They can be made in a remarkably short amount of time using just three simple ingredients: Rice Krispies cereal, marshmallows, and butter. These iconic snacks are perfect for packing in school lunch boxes, taking to holiday gatherings, or enjoying under the stars on a warm summer evening.
Beer Nuts
Sprinkling magic into ordinary peanuts is what turns them into crunchy, sweet, delicious beer nuts – all it takes is some sugar, water, and sea salt! These tasty treats are perfect for camping trips because they’re incredibly easy to snack on with your fingers. Whether you’re feeling sluggish or in need of a quick energy boost, the carbs in these sweet and salty nuts will provide just that.
Almond Flour Crackers
Happily, these crackers require only four simple ingredients, making them an attractive option for those watching their carb intake. Who wouldn’t love the idea of indulging in a tasty snack that’s also good for you? With just almond flour, sea salt, water, and flaxseed as the main components, it’s no wonder they’re a hit. The crunch from the flaxseed, combined with the subtle nuttiness of the almond flour, creates a delightful flavor experience.
It’s no surprise that these low-carb crackers are perfect for pairing with creamy peanut butter for a satisfying snack.
Puppy Chow
Everyone who’s a fan of puppy chow knows how delicious it is, but sometimes it can be hard to put into words. For me, describing it was always a challenge, as I struggled to find the right phrases that would do it justice. But then, one day, it clicked – Kellogg’s Krave cereal! The taste of this childhood classic is uncannily similar to puppy chow, with its rich combination of peanut butter and powdered sugar on top of a crunchy base that’s reminiscent of chocolate and peanut butter goodness.
Whether you’re old or young, there’s no denying the addictive quality of this tasty treat, which has been delighting kids for generations.
Banana Boats
Among the many delightful camping snacks, another option worth considering is a treat that requires minimal extra packing. To prepare it, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients: bananas, chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers. This sweet concoction shares similarities with s’mores but boasts a fruity twist thanks to the banana base. If you’re not a fan of traditional s’mores, feel free to experiment with alternative fillings like dried fruit, nuts, shredded coconut, or caramel sauce.
