Whether you’re embarking on a wilderness adventure or simply craving a taste of the great outdoors from the comfort of your own home, mountain pies are an absolute must-try. These sweet and savory treats have been delighting campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts for generations. So, what exactly is a mountain pie?
Simply put, it’s a delicious filling sandwiched between two slices of bread that’s cooked to perfection using a clever combination of butter and heat – either over an open flame or with the help of a plug-in appliance. But where did this tasty tradition come from? The term ‘mountain pie’ is often used interchangeably with ‘hobo pie’, ‘camper pie’, or ‘campfire pie’.
Regardless of what you call it, the concept remains the same: take your favorite filling – sweet or savory, and place it between two slices of bread that have been buttered up. Then, use a long-handled metal tool to cook it over a campfire, or a mountain pie maker for an indoor twist. In this article, we’ll be exploring not just one, but 16 mouth-watering mountain pie recipes that are perfect for your next outdoor escapade.
From classic campfire treats to innovative twists and international inspirations, there’s something for everyone here.
Cherry Mountain Pie
To kick off our collection of mountain pie dessert recipes, we’ll start with a classic formula. This straightforward recipe yields a scrumptious final product that’s perfect for snacking on during outdoor adventures. A key tip to keep in mind is not overstuffing the bread slices, or your filling will risk oozing out and making a mess.
The good news is that this versatile recipe can be easily adapted to create alternative flavor combinations like apple mountain pie, blueberry mountain pie, or any other desired filling.
Apple Mountain Pie
Indulge in the irresistible combination of buttery, sweet, and crispy flavors that this recipe has to offer! With its comforting aroma reminiscent of traditional apple pies, these treats are sure to please even the most discerning palates. To create this delightful fusion, start by slicing red or green apples into thin pieces and then combine them with a mixture of lemon juice, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
The perfect blend of flavors will come together when you cook and toast these treats to perfection. And the best part? They’re sure to be a hit at your next camping trip or any gathering where you want to impress!
Pie Iron Sausage And Egg Hobo Pies
Even if you’re not typically a sweet tooth, don’t worry! Mountain pies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of day – breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even dessert. When it comes to breakfast mountain pies, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up with a delightful combination of sausage, egg, and melted cheese nestled between two slices of buttery bread. Feel free to get creative by swapping out or adding your favorite ingredients.
For instance, try using your go-to cheese or add some crispy bacon for an extra boost of flavor. Just be mindful not to overdo it on the eggs, as this can lead to a bit of a mess in the kitchen. Despite the simplicity, these mountain pies are sure to satisfy your morning cravings.
Lemon Meringue Pie Iron Recipe
Are you ready for a sweet treat that’s a departure from the classic s’mores? Look no further! Instead of relying on traditional campfire fare, why not try using lemon curd or lemon pie filling as the base of your dessert? The bright citrus flavor pairs perfectly with a twist on a familiar favorite. To create this unique dessert, simply add marshmallows to mimic the fluffy texture of meringue, but be mindful not to overload the mixture.
Once assembled, allow the pies to cool slightly before serving, retaining just enough warmth to bring out the best flavors.
Chocolate Caramel Pie Iron
The harmonious union of chocolate and caramel is truly divine. This sweet combination finds its perfect expression in the form of caramel spread, also known as dulce de leche, which serves as the filling alongside your preferred chocolate pieces. It’s essential that these chocolate components melt effortlessly over the heat of the flame. Given the richness of this indulgent treat, it’s advisable to opt for cooking spray instead of butter.
This allows you to create a perfectly balanced flavor profile. The beauty of mountain pies lies in their versatility, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings and combinations that suit your taste. For those seeking an added touch of elegance, a light dusting of powdered sugar provides the perfect finishing flourish.
Reuben Inspired Campfire Sandwich
Building on the timeless appeal of the classic Reuben sandwich, this pie variant offers a customizable twist. The combination of pumpernickel bread, Thousand Island dressing, melted Swiss cheese, tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and savory onion creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that’s reminiscent of a hearty sandwich, perfectly toasted to bring out the best in each component.
Pie Iron Apple Pie (GF & Vegan)
While we’ve featured an apple mountain pie before, this gluten-free and vegan-friendly iteration truly stands out. The key to its success lies in the use of coconut butter, which replicates the rich, buttery flavor of a traditional apple pie. To take it to the next level, you can incorporate raisins or honey (for non-vegans) to add natural sweetness and complexity to the filling.
The addition of maple syrup provides a delightful balance of sweet and tart notes, while tapioca flour helps to thicken the mixture. These pies are perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions, a love for apple pie, and a desire to enjoy it in the great outdoors.
Campfire Pie Iron Quesadillas
One of the most appealing aspects of making mountain pies is the freedom to get creative and try out different combinations. Unlike traditional bread-based pies, mountain pies offer a Tex-Mex twist when you use flour tortillas instead. This versatility allows you to customize your pie with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, red peppers, jalapeños, chicken, or salsa – whatever your heart desires!
The result is a distinctively savory and Mexican-inspired dish that sets it apart from other mountain pie recipes.
Nutella Pies
Indulge in the quintessential s’mores experience with these delightful pies, perfect for all ages. By combining buttered bread, rich Nutella, and fluffy marshmallows, you’ll create a sweet treat that’s sure to become a camping trip staple. The subtle addition of hazelnut and chocolate notes from Nutella beautifully complements the stickiness of the marshmallows, achieving the same velvety consistency as when they’re toasted to perfection over a campfire flame.
Ham And Cheese Mountain Pie With Crescent Rolls
Satisfy your appetite with a mountain pie, the perfect remedy for a day filled with hiking and swimming. These delectable treats are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort but yielding maximum flavor. The addition of robust cheeses sets this recipe apart from others, infusing each bite with a rich, satisfying taste. Once toasted to perfection, add a dash of condiments like mustard or garlic aioli to elevate the dish and indulge in a complex, savory delight.
Pizza Mountain Pies
The allure of a piping hot pizza is universal – who can resist the combination of melted cheese, tangy sauce, and crispy crust? However, when you’re camping in a remote location without access to delivery or a nearby pizzeria, it’s easy to get left feeling unsatisfied. That’s where the humble pizza mountain pie comes in. By combining pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and green peppers, these rustic treats are sure to hit the spot with your fellow campers.
Not only will they be a satisfying meal option, but you may find yourself craving them again even after you return from your trip – that’s how good they are!
Pie Iron Apple Turnover With Canned Biscuits
While traditional mountain pies typically feature bread as their crust, this recipe takes a creative turn by utilizing a can of country biscuits. The result is a delightful twist on the classic treat. To take it up a notch, the apple filling is paired with an additional helping of marshmallows, making for a sweet and satisfying snack or dessert option.
One of the advantages of using canned or homemade biscuits as the crust is that they still deliver that signature flaky, golden brown texture you’d expect from a pie – minus the hassle of making your own dough. Just be mindful of the filling’s texture, ensuring it’s not too runny to prevent any mess or stress in the kitchen.
Milky Way Pudgy Pie
Fans of this beloved chocolate bar will find it impossible to go wrong with creating a mountain pie. The combination of chopped-up Milky Ways and mini marshmallows on white bread yields a chewy caramel and nougat dessert, finished off with a spoonful of graham cracker crumbs for an added layer of crunch, reminiscent of the classic campfire treat s’mores.
One of the advantages of many recipes like this is that the ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores and have a long shelf life, making them ideal for trekking or camping excursions in the great outdoors.
Strawberry Pie Iron Recipe
Experience the simplicity and delight of this mountain pie, where sweet strawberry filling meets toasted, buttery bread. This classic treat requires just three ingredients, making it perfect for kids to create their own masterpieces. The best part? It won’t leave a trail of mess behind! For added depth, try sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon or cinnamon sugar on top. Alternatively, use an olive oil spray to prevent sticking and add a touch of subtle flavor.
English Muffin Campfire Pizza Sandwiches
Taking a creative twist on traditional mountain pies, this edition introduces English muffins as an unconventional bread substitute. The grilling process imparts a distinct flavor that can only be achieved through the Maillard reaction over an open flame. Adding a pat of butter to toasted muffins elevates the overall experience and provides a satisfying base for your DIY pizza.
Feel free to experiment with various toppings and quantities to replicate the crispy texture found at your favorite pizzeria. Why not use this opportunity to explore our curated list of grilled appetizers while embracing the great outdoors?
Garlic Bread In The Pie Iron
Take the simplicity to new heights with a ridiculously delicious garlic bread that’s perfect for campfires. This buttery, well-seasoned masterpiece is a match made in heaven when paired with campfire spaghetti, hot dogs, or burgers. But don’t stop there! Elevate it further by adding your favorite fillings, such as chopped spinach, feta cheese, sautéed mushrooms, sliced tomatoes and mozzarella, leftover taco meat, or even pizza and Tex-Mex favorites like Brie and fresh basil.
The possibilities are endless!
The bottom line
For generations, mountain pies have been a beloved staple among campers, offering a convenient and scrumptious meal option. With these innovative recipes in mind, feel free to get creative and give them a try on your next outdoor adventure! Whether you’re satisfying a sweet tooth or fueling up for a busy day of activities, these pies are sure to hit the spot.
Hopefully, this introduction has piqued your interest in mountain pie-making and you’re itching to give it a shot during your next camping trip. Whatever recipe you choose, rest assured that they’re easy to prepare and rewardingly delicious once cooked. So why not add grilled peaches to your list of outdoor cooking favorites?
And if you’re curious about the variations on traditional mountain pies, we’ve got you covered – our recipes use slices of bread as a base, but be sure to check them out for more inspiration!
