Fireside Cinnamon Swirls

Campfire Cinnamon Rolls are a quintessential treat that transforms any outdoor adventure into a cozy, delicious experience. Imagine waking up to the aroma of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls, cooked over an open fire or grill. This recipe takes the beloved classic and adapts it perfectly for camping, offering all the delightful flavor of homemade yeast dough without the fuss. It’s an unexpectedly simple yet incredibly satisfying breakfast or dessert that will elevate your camping menu from ordinary to extraordinary.

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a weekend warrior, finding easy-to-pack, simple-to-cook, and utterly delicious meals is key to a successful trip. These campfire cinnamon rolls tick all those boxes and more. They’re a fantastic way to start your day in the wilderness or cap off an evening under the stars. The secret to their ease and delectable taste lies in using quality, pre-made yeast dough, giving you that authentic, fluffy texture with minimal effort.

Campfire Cinnamon Rolls are cooked on a stick over a fire or grill. As easy as a can of biscuits, but with real yeast dough instead! The best cinnamon rolls you will ever have while camping!

This post is proudly brought to you by Rhodes Bake-N-Serv, a brand committed to making delicious baking accessible to everyone. Their incredible Rhodes AnyTime!® Cinnamon Rolls are the star of this recipe, allowing you to enjoy the unparalleled taste of real yeast dough even when you’re far from your kitchen. We appreciate their support in making Dessert Now Dinner Later possible, bringing you innovative and delightful recipes like this one.

Experience the Magic of Campfire Cinnamon Rolls

Transform your camping breakfast or dessert routine with these incredibly simple yet deeply satisfying Campfire Cinnamon Rolls. Forget the usual instant oatmeal or basic granola bars; these warm, fluffy rolls, cooked right over your grill or campfire, offer a gourmet touch to your outdoor dining. They’re quick, requiring only about 15-20 minutes to toast to golden perfection on a roasting stick, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings or spontaneous evening treats.

The true beauty of this recipe lies in its convenience coupled with authentic flavor. Instead of laboring over homemade dough, we leverage the convenience of Rhodes AnyTime!® Cinnamon Rolls. These ready-to-bake rolls deliver the genuine taste and texture of yeast rolls that have risen perfectly, ensuring a soft, tender interior and a wonderfully sweet, cinnamony swirl. All you need are these incredible rolls and some sturdy roasting sticks, and you’re ready to create memorable moments around the fire.

Prepping and Packing Your Rolls for the Campsite

Careful preparation before you leave home can make all the difference for a smooth camping culinary experience. Here’s how to ensure your Rhodes AnyTime!® Cinnamon Rolls arrive at the campsite in perfect condition, ready for cooking:

For the Journey: Begin by placing the entire box of Rhodes AnyTime!® Cinnamon Rolls inside a gallon-sized zip-top bag. This crucial step protects the cardboard packaging from getting wet when stored in a cooler filled with ice, preserving the integrity of the rolls.
Space-Saving Option: If cooler space is at a premium, you can opt to remove the cream cheese frosting packet and individual rolls from their box. Transfer them into a fresh zip-top bag. To prevent the rolls from sticking together or getting crushed, place a small square of parchment paper between each roll. Position this bag near the top of your cooler where it’s less likely to be compressed by other items.
Optimal Roll Temperature: For the best results, use cinnamon rolls that are thawed but still cold. This shouldn’t be an issue if they’ve been stored properly in your cooler. If you’re preparing these at home or need to thaw them upon arrival, allow the rolls to thaw at room temperature for about one hour, or transfer them to the refrigerator overnight. The slightly firm, cold dough is easier to skewer and cook evenly.

Mastering the Art of Cooking Cinnamon Rolls on a Stick

Cooking cinnamon rolls on a stick over a campfire is an engaging and enjoyable activity for everyone, turning breakfast into an interactive family event. Here’s a detailed guide to achieving perfectly golden, deliciously warm rolls every time:

Skewer with Precision: Take a thawed cinnamon roll and carefully skewer it onto a sturdy roasting stick. Ensure there’s an inch or two of empty space at the end of the stick; this prevents the roll from sliding off as it expands and cooks. For added stability and to keep the roll from unraveling, try skewering through the tightest “end piece” of the spiral. This keeps the roll intact and ensures even cooking.
Controlled Roasting: Hold your skewered cinnamon roll over a campfire or a grill preheated to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. The key to even cooking is consistent rotation and careful monitoring. Begin by roasting the bottom of the roll for approximately 5 minutes, then rotate to cook the top for another 5 minutes. Finally, cook the sides for an additional 5-10 minutes, continuously rotating the stick to prevent any single side from burning. The total cooking time should be around 15-20 minutes.
Watch for the Rise and Drip: During the second 5 minutes of cooking, you’ll notice the rolls beginning to rise, particularly the top portion. This is a good indicator that the dough is cooking through to the center. However, this is also when the sweet, sugary filling can start to drip and caramelize rapidly, making it prone to burning. Maintain a vigilant eye on how close you hold the rolls to the flames or coals. Adjust your distance frequently to manage the heat and prevent scorching.
Ensure Even Browning (Extra Tip!): To guarantee a perfectly golden-brown exterior on all sides, including the part that was closest to the handle, pull the cinnamon roll off the stick briefly. Rotate it 180 degrees, then re-skewer it onto the stick, exposing the previously un-browned edge to the heat. This simple maneuver ensures every inch of the roll is toasted to perfection. Remember to exercise extreme caution, as the roll will be very hot to the touch. You might want to use tongs or a clean cloth to handle it.
Frosting and Enjoyment: While the cinnamon roll is still warm from the fire, take the packet of cream cheese frosting. Knead it gently with your hands to soften and mix the contents. Snip off a corner of the packet and generously squeeze the frosting over your freshly cooked roll. You can enjoy it directly from the stick for an authentic campfire experience, or carefully transfer it to a paper plate. Savor every warm, sweet, and gooey bite!

Creative Alternatives: More Ways to Cook Campfire Cinnamon Rolls

While cooking cinnamon rolls on a stick offers a classic, hands-on camping experience, there are several other fantastic methods to prepare these delightful treats over a campfire or grill. Each method offers a unique texture and convenience, allowing you to choose the best option for your specific camping setup and preferences.

Cooking All at Once in a Pie Tin or Foil Packet:

This method is ideal when you want to prepare multiple cinnamon rolls simultaneously, perfect for feeding a crowd or a hungry family efficiently.

Preparation: Arrange your thawed cinnamon rolls in a lightly greased pie tin. Alternatively, for a more rustic approach, use heavy-duty aluminum foil to wrap around the bottom and sides of the cardboard baking tray that often accompanies Rhodes Anytime!® Cinnamon Rolls, leaving the top exposed. Crucially, remember to remove the cream cheese frosting packet before cooking in this manner. For easier handling and removal from the fire, you can create a foil sling by placing two strips of foil underneath the tin/tray before adding the rolls, allowing you to lift it safely.
Placement: Carefully place your pie tin or foil packet over a campfire (preferably on a sturdy grate or cooking rack) or directly onto a grill heated to 350˚F. The direct heat will ensure the rolls cook through and develop a golden crust.
Cooking & Monitoring: Cook for approximately 20-30 minutes. Be sure to rotate the pan 180 degrees halfway through, or as needed, to promote even cooking and prevent one side from burning. Continue cooking until the tops of the cinnamon rolls are beautifully golden brown and the dough is fully cooked.
Finishing Touch: Once cooked, carefully remove the tin or packet from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly before drizzling generously with the cream cheese icing.

Unique Methods: Orange Peel, Dutch Oven, or Pie Iron:

In an Orange Peel: For a surprisingly delicious and aromatic twist, cook them inside a hollowed-out orange peel. This method is fantastic if you want to place the rolls directly onto coals or embers without burning. The orange peel acts as a natural protective barrier and imparts a subtle, delightful citrus essence to the cinnamon rolls as they bake. It’s an easy way to prevent sticking and add a unique flavor profile.
In a Dutch Oven: A Dutch oven is a versatile camping essential, and it works wonderfully for baking cinnamon rolls. To prevent the bottom of your pie tin (or the rolls directly) from burning within the Dutch oven, place a few canning rings on the bottom before setting the tin on top. This creates an air gap that distributes heat more evenly, mimicking an oven. Simply cover with the lid and place coals on top and bottom for all-around baking.
In a Pie Iron: For individual, crispy-edged cinnamon rolls, a pie iron is a fun and effective tool. This method flattens the rolls slightly, creating a satisfyingly crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, warm interior. Simply place a thawed cinnamon roll inside a greased pie iron, close it, and cook over the campfire, flipping occasionally until golden brown. It’s a great way to customize cooking for each person and enjoy a perfectly toasted, personal-sized treat.

Elevate Your Camping Cuisine: More Delicious Recipes

While campfire cinnamon rolls are a phenomenal addition to any camping trip, don’t stop there! Exploring a variety of easy and delicious camping recipes can turn your outdoor dining into an unforgettable experience. Here are some more fantastic ideas to inspire your next adventure, focusing on minimal cleanup and maximum flavor:

Southwestern Chicken Packets: An incredibly convenient and flavorful tin-foil dinner. These individual packets combine tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and zesty Southwestern seasonings. They can be cooked directly over a campfire, on a grill, or even in a conventional oven, offering incredible versatility for home or away. Cleanup is a breeze, making them a perfect weeknight or campsite meal.
Woof ‘Ems (also known as Campfire Eclairs): If you’re looking for another simple yet impressive camping dessert, Woof ‘Ems are a must-try. This easy, three-ingredient recipe involves baking dough around a stick over the fire, then filling the hollow creation with your favorite sweet fillings like pudding, fruit, or whipped cream. It’s a fun, customizable treat that kids and adults alike will adore.
Hot Ham and Pineapple Campfire Sandwiches: For a savory and satisfying meal, these tin-foil sandwiches are a revelation. Combining smoky ham and sweet pineapple, wrapped in foil and cooked over the fire, creates a wonderfully warm and gooey sandwich that’s packed with flavor. Like the chicken packets, they can also be baked in an oven, making them a flexible option for any meal plan.
Pizza Breadsticks: Satisfy your pizza cravings in a campfire-friendly format with these delightful pizza breadsticks. Stuffed with pepperoni and cheese, then skewered and grilled to perfection over an open flame, these cheesy, savory treats are a fantastic appetizer or light meal. Serve them with marinara sauce for dipping for the ultimate portable pizza experience.

Average rating: 4.43 from 42 ratings

Campfire Cinnamon Rolls

Created by

Amber Brady

Prep:

1 minute

Cook:

15-20 mins

Total:

16-21 mins

Deliciously gooey cinnamon rolls cooked over a campfire or grill. The perfect easy camping breakfast or dessert!

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Yields:

6
cinnamon rolls

Ingredients

6
Rhodes Anytime!® Cinnamon Rolls, thawed but still cold, (one box/package)
1
cream cheese icing packet, (comes with rolls)

Instructions

Skewer a thawed cinnamon roll onto a roasting stick, leaving an inch or two of space on the end so it won’t slide off. Skewer into the end piece of the roll to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.
Roast cinnamon rolls over a campfire or grill (set to 350 degrees Fahrenheit). Cook for about 5 minutes on the bottom, 5 minutes on the top, and 5-10 minutes for the sides, rotating the stick frequently as needed to prevent burning.
Tip: The rolls will rise during the second 5 minutes of cooking (the top part of the roll). This indicates the dough is cooking through. Be mindful that the sugary filling can start to drip and burn easily at this stage. Keep a close eye on the proximity to flames/coals.
Extra Tip: For even browning, carefully pull the cinnamon roll off, rotate it 180 degrees, and stick it back on the roasting stick to brown the edge that faced the handle during most of the cooking time. Be very careful, as the roll will be hot to touch!
Knead the cream cheese frosting packet to soften. Cut off the tip and squeeze frosting onto the warm roll. Enjoy the cinnamon roll directly from the stick or transfer to a plate.

Notes

To Cook all at Once (in foil or a pie tin):

Place cinnamon rolls in a lightly greased pie tin. OR — Use heavy-duty foil to wrap around the bottom and edges of the cardboard baking tray that comes with the Rhodes Anytime!® Cinnamon Rolls, leaving the top exposed. (Remove the cream cheese frosting packet.)
Place over a campfire (preferably with a rack) or on a grill heated to 350˚F.
Cook for 20-30 minutes, rotating the pan 180 degrees halfway through or as needed. Cook until golden brown on top.
Remove from campfire or grill and top with icing.

Nutrition

Disclaimer: Nutritional values were calculated using a third-party tool and are provided as an estimation only.

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