Apple Spice Cobbler in a Lodge 12-Inch Dutch Oven

Apple Spice Cobbler in a Lodge Dutch Oven: A Camping Favorite

Are you planning your next camping trip and looking for an easy yet delicious dessert? Look no further than this Apple Spice Cobbler made in a Lodge 12-Inch Dutch Oven. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also cooks evenly over a campfire, making it the perfect outdoor treat to share with family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just getting into outdoor cooking, this recipe is a surefire way to elevate your camping experience.

Why Dutch Oven Cooking is Ideal for Camping

Dutch ovens have been a staple for outdoor cooking for centuries, and for good reason. Their cast iron construction ensures even heat distribution, which is essential for baking, roasting, and simmering while camping. Unlike many other types of cookware, Dutch ovens can handle both high temperatures and delicate recipes like desserts. This makes them perfect for creating dishes like Apple Spice Cobbler.

Lodge Dutch Ovens are particularly well-suited for camping because of their durability and design. The three legs on the bottom allow you to place them directly over hot coals, while the flat, heavy lid holds additional coals on top to create even heat from all directions. This means your cobbler will bake evenly, with a perfectly browned, crisp topping.

Ingredients for Apple Spice Cobbler

To get started with your Apple Spice Cobbler, you only need a few simple ingredients that are easy to pack for a camping trip:

2 cans of apple pie filling
1 box of spice cake mix
1 stick of butter

These ingredients are camping-friendly and don’t require refrigeration except for the butter, making them ideal for a hassle-free dessert in the great outdoors.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Line the Dutch Oven: First, line your Lodge 12-Inch Dutch Oven with foil. This step is optional but highly recommended for easy cleanup after your cobbler is finished baking. Dutch ovens can be tough to clean, especially after cooking sticky or sugary recipes. The foil acts as a barrier and prevents any mess from sticking to the oven.

2. Add Apple Pie Filling: Then, spread the apple pie filling evenly across the bottom of the lined Dutch oven. The apples provide the base layer of your cobbler, giving it a sweet, fruity flavor that pairs perfectly with the spiced cake topping.

3. Sprinkle Cake Mix: Next, evenly sprinkle the dry spice cake mix over the apple pie filling. Avoid stirring the ingredients. The cake mix will absorb moisture from the apples as it cooks, creating a soft, delicious topping with a slight crunch on the surface.

4. Add Butter: After that, slice the butter into thin pieces and spread them evenly across the top of the dry cake mix. As the butter melts, it will combine with the cake mix and create a golden, crispy crust on your cobbler.

5. Bake Over Coals: Finally, place 13 hot coals beneath the Dutch oven and 12 on top of the lid. This will ensure even heat distribution for baking. Cook for about 20-30 minutes, rotating the oven and the lid every 10 minutes to prevent hot spots. The cobbler is ready when the top is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling through the crust.

Tips for Dutch Oven Cooking

1. Control Heat Properly: Dutch oven cooking requires some practice to master, especially when managing heat. The number of coals you use determines how evenly your dish cooks. Placing more coals on top of the lid than under the oven helps with baking recipes like this cobbler. By evenly distributing the coals, you prevent the bottom from burning before the top is done.

2. Rotate the Oven: Rotating the Dutch oven every 10 minutes helps distribute heat evenly. Turn both the oven and the lid separately, ensuring no single area gets too hot. This method prevents hot spots, which can cause parts of the cobbler to cook unevenly.

3. Test the Recipe at Home First: If you’re new to Dutch oven cooking or to this particular recipe, it’s a good idea to try it at home before your camping trip. Practicing will give you a better feel for cooking times and heat management, so you’ll feel more confident when it’s time to cook outdoors.

Why Choose a Lodge 12-Inch Dutch Oven?

When it comes to outdoor cooking, not all Dutch ovens are created equal. The Lodge 12-Inch Dutch Oven stands out for several reasons. First, Lodge has been a trusted name in cast iron cookware for over 120 years, and their products are known for their durability and performance. A Lodge Dutch Oven will last a lifetime if properly cared for, making it a great investment for any outdoor enthusiast.

Moreover, the 12-inch size is perfect for a variety of recipes. It’s large enough to serve a family but compact enough to carry on camping trips. Plus, the legs on the bottom of the oven allow it to sit directly over coals, while the heavy, flat lid holds coals for baking. Whether you’re making a main course or a dessert, this Dutch oven is versatile enough to handle it all.

Why Apple Spice Cobbler is a Must-Try for Campers

There’s something about the combination of apples, spices, and a buttery crust that makes Apple Spice Cobbler the perfect dessert for camping. The warm, comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon pair wonderfully with the crisp topping created by the cake mix and butter. This dessert feels like a treat, yet it’s incredibly easy to make in a Dutch oven.

One of the great things about this recipe is its adaptability. If you don’t have apple pie filling on hand, you can easily substitute with peaches, cherries, or even berries. Similarly, the spice cake mix can be swapped for yellow or white cake mix, depending on your preference. This flexibility makes Apple Spice Cobbler a great go-to recipe no matter what ingredients you have available.

Another reason this cobbler is perfect for camping is that it requires very little equipment. Aside from your Dutch oven, all you need are some hot coals and a few basic ingredients. You can easily prepare this dessert without needing an oven or stove, making it an ideal option for cooking in the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dutch Oven Cooking

Q: How do I clean a Dutch oven after cooking?
A: Cleaning a Dutch oven is simple if you take the right steps. First, allow it to cool down completely. If you’ve lined it with foil, simply remove the foil and discard it. If food has stuck to the surface, use warm water and a soft brush to scrub it away. Avoid using soap, as this can strip the seasoning. Once clean, dry the oven thoroughly and apply a light coat of oil to protect the cast iron.

Q: Can I use a Dutch oven on a camp stove?
A: Yes, you can! While Dutch ovens are typically used over hot coals, they work well on camp stoves too. Just make sure to monitor the heat closely, as a camp stove may cook food more quickly than coals.

Q: How do I know when the cobbler is done?
A: The cobbler is ready when the top is golden brown, and the apple filling is bubbling through the crust. If you’re unsure, you can gently poke the center with a fork or toothpick. If it comes out clean, the cobbler is done.

Ready to Try?

If you’re eager to take your outdoor cooking to the next level, the Lodge 12-Inch Dutch Oven is a must-have tool. With this versatile piece of cookware, you’ll be able to prepare everything from savory stews to sweet desserts like Apple Spice Cobbler. Durable, easy to use, and perfect for camping, it’s the ideal companion for your next adventure.

So, grab your ingredients and give this Apple Spice Cobbler a try on your next camping trip. You’ll impress your friends and family with a warm, comforting dessert that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious. Happy camping and happy cooking!