Camping with kids is an adventure that fosters family bonding and a love for the outdoors. One of the joys of camping is cooking meals together over a fire or portable stove. Engaging kids in meal preparation not only teaches them valuable life skills but also makes them more excited about eating what they've helped create. Here are five fun and easy camping recipes that kids can help prepare, ensuring enjoyable and memorable meal times in the great outdoors.

1. Campfire Cones

Ingredients:

  • Waffle cones
  • Mini marshmallows
  • Chocolate chips (or chocolate pieces)
  • Other fillings of choice (banana slices, strawberries, nuts)

Instructions:

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  1. Let each child fill their waffle cone with their preferred combination of mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and other fillings.
  2. Wrap the filled cones in aluminum foil.
  3. Place the foil-wrapped cones on the grill or near the campfire embers for about 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the contents are melted and gooey.
  4. Carefully unwrap and enjoy!

This hands-on treat is like s'mores but without the mess, making it perfect for younger children to assemble with minimal supervision.

2. Foil Packet Cheese Fries

Ingredients:

  • Frozen French fries
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Cooked bacon pieces
  • Green onions, chopped
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Have kids mix frozen French fries with salt and pepper in a bowl.
  2. Tear off large foil pieces, double-layering if necessary for strength, and let kids spoon the fries onto the center of each piece.
  3. Sprinkle shredded cheese and bacon pieces over the fries.
  4. Fold the foil into packets, ensuring they're sealed well but leaving room for steam.
  5. Cook the packets over the grill or campfire for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  6. Open the packets carefully, sprinkle green onions on top, and let them cool before serving.

The simplicity of assembling these foil packets makes it a fun activity, with delicious cheesy fries as the reward.

3. Campfire Pizza Logs

Ingredients:

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  • Pizza dough (store-bought)
  • Pizza sauce
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Pepperoni slices or other toppings
  • Olive oil for brushing

Instructions:

  1. Roll out the pizza dough and cut it into rectangles.
  2. Invite kids to spread pizza sauce on each rectangle, leaving space around the edges.
  3. Add cheese and pepperoni slices or other toppings.
  4. Carefully roll up the dough into logs, sealing the edges.
  5. Brush the outside with olive oil.
  6. Wrap each log in foil, then cook over the campfire or grill, turning often until the dough is cooked through (about 15-20 minutes).
  7. Unwrap and slice the logs before serving.

Creating these pizza logs allows kids to customize their meal and enjoy the process of making pizza in a new way.

4. Peanut Butter Banana Quesadillas

Ingredients:

  • Flour tortillas
  • Peanut butter
  • Banana, sliced
  • Chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Spread peanut butter over half of a flour tortilla.
  2. Arrange banana slices (and chocolate chips, if using) on top of the peanut butter.
  3. Fold the tortilla in half.
  4. Cook on a lightly oiled pan over the camp stove or grill until golden on both sides, flipping once.
  5. Cut into wedges and serve warm.

This recipe is incredibly simple, making it suitable for even very young children to help prepare under adult supervision.

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5. Campfire Corn on the Cob

Ingredients:

  • Fresh corn on the cob, husks removed
  • Butter
  • Salt

Instructions:

  1. Spread butter over each ear of corn and sprinkle with salt.
  2. Wrap each ear tightly in aluminum foil.
  3. Place the foil-wrapped corn directly on the hot coals or over the grill, turning occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Remove from the fire (with tongs) and carefully unwrap the foil.
  5. Let the corn cool slightly before handing it to the kids to eat.

This method of cooking corn is straightforward and exciting for kids, as they watch their corn roast in the campfire.

Conclusion

Involving kids in meal preparation during camping trips can enrich the experience and create lasting memories. These recipes are designed to be fun and easy, allowing children of all ages to participate in safe and engaging ways. By encouraging kids to help prepare meals, you nurture their independence and culinary curiosity while enjoying delicious food that everyone will love.

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