Easy Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler

There’s something magical about cooking over an open flame—especially when you’re celebrating a loved one’s birthday in the great outdoors. That’s exactly what we did for Ryan this year, and instead of a traditional cake, I went rogue with a rustic, gooey Dutch oven peach cobbler. Spoiler alert: it was amazing.

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Why We Love Dutch Oven Desserts

Dutch ovens are the superheroes of outdoor cooking. They’re heavy, rugged, and can take heat from all directions—literally. Whether it’s a stew or dessert, these bad boys bake things to perfection, even when you’re out in the forest with nothing but coals and a campfire.

What Is a Dutch Oven Cobbler?

The Basics of Cobbler

At its heart, cobbler is a dessert that layers juicy fruit on the bottom and a golden, cake-like or biscuit topping on top. When cooked, the syrup from the fruit bubbles up and marries into the crust, creating a rustic, mouthwatering dessert that’s halfway between pie and cake.

Why Use a Dutch Oven for Baking?

Because it’s basically an oven with a lid that can handle heat from above and below. The thick cast iron retains and distributes heat evenly, giving your cobbler that baked-all-around feel you just can’t get with a skillet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Using Prepackaged Cake Mixes

Grab a box of your favorite cake mix—I went with Duncan Hines Classic Yellow. It’s simple, reliable, and buttery-soft when cooked.

1 box yellow cake mix
3 eggs
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 cup water

Fresh vs. Canned Peaches

Canned peaches are super convenient, but if you’ve got access to fresh ones, go for it! Fresh peaches add a tart balance to the sweetness of the cake mix and syrup.

2 cans of peach slices in syrup OR 4-5 fresh peaches sliced thin
1–2 tablespoons of sugar if using fresh peaches
Optional: dash of lemon juice for brightness

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor

Cinnamon (a must!)
Nutmeg or ginger for warmth
Splash of vanilla extract
Brown sugar for caramel notes

Essential Tools for the Perfect Cobbler

Cast Iron Dutch Oven

Make sure it’s seasoned and ready to go. Lodge is a great brand that won’t let you down.

Charcoal and Fire Setup

You’ll need about 30 charcoal briquettes: 10 under and 20 on the lid.

Cooking Utensils for the Campfire

Long tongs or a coal shovel
Fire-resistant gloves
A sturdy trivet or stand to keep your Dutch oven stable

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Heating the Coals

Start by lighting your 30 charcoal briquettes. Let them burn until they turn gray—about 15–20 minutes. These will be your heat source.

Preparing the Cake Batter (Optional)

Here’s where I went off-script: I followed the box and made the batter. The Lodge cookbook suggests just sprinkling the dry mix on top of the peaches. Both ways work, but using the batter gives you a more traditional cake texture.

Assembling the Cobbler

Pour the peaches (with syrup if canned) into the bottom of the Dutch oven.
Pour cake batter (or dry mix) on top, spreading it evenly.
Dust generously with cinnamon.
Dot with butter to give it that golden crust.

Cooking Over the Coals

Place 10 coals underneath and 20 on top.
Bake for about 45 minutes, checking around the 30-minute mark.
If the top is browning too fast, remove some coals from the lid.
Once done, let it sit for 5 minutes before digging in!

Expert Tips for the Best Peach Cobbler

Don’t Skimp on Peaches

The more fruit, the better. A good cobbler should be juicy, fruity, and just the right amount of cakey.

How to Avoid a Soggy Bottom

If you’re using canned peaches, try draining a little of the syrup or cooking the cobbler a bit longer.

Add Butter for Richness

Don’t be shy—dot the top with butter after cooking to let it melt into the crust. Heaven.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Mixing the Cake Batter – Yes or No?

Totally up to you. Mixing gives a cake texture; sprinkling the dry mix gives a more crumbly topping. Test both and find your favorite.

Managing Moisture from Canned Fruit

Too much syrup = soggy. Drain about half the syrup if you prefer a firmer cobbler.

Coal Placement and Heat Control

Always use more coals on top than the bottom to avoid burning the bottom crust.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

Mixed Berry Dutch Oven Cobbler

Substitute peaches with blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries. Add lemon zest for zing.

Apple Cinnamon Cobbler

Use canned or fresh apples with cinnamon and a touch of nutmeg. Perfect for fall camping.

Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Style

Canned cherries + chocolate cake mix = decadent. Add chocolate chips on top for good measure.

Serving Suggestions

Vanilla Ice Cream Pairing

If you’re not in the middle of a forest, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream turns this into a dream dessert.

Whipped Cream and Nuts Topping

Want crunch? Toasted pecans or walnuts pair beautifully with warm peaches and soft cake.

Breakfast Leftovers? Yes Please!

Who says you can’t eat cobbler for breakfast? Warm it up and serve with yogurt for a sweet morning treat.

Clean-up Tips for Dutch Oven Baking

Let it cool before scrubbing.
Use hot water, a scraper, and avoid soap.
Re-season with a bit of oil if needed.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Camping

Minimal ingredients
No fridge required (if using canned items)
Feeds a crowd
Comforting, warm, and sweet—just like a hug around the campfire

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of a Dutch oven peach cobbler cooked under the open sky. It’s easy, indulgent, and brings people together, one delicious bite at a time. Whether you mix your batter or go the dump-cake route, this recipe is a keeper for any outdoor adventure. So next time you’re packing for a camping trip, don’t forget the peaches and the cake mix—you’re about to become the dessert hero of the weekend.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cobbler in a regular oven?

Absolutely! Use a 9×13 baking dish, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes.

2. How do I store leftovers while camping?

Use an airtight container and store in a cooler. Eat within 1–2 days.

. What if I don’t have a cast iron Dutch oven?

You can use a heavy-duty pot with a tight-fitting lid, but it won’t retain heat the same way.

4. Can I use other fruits besides peaches?

Yes! Try apples, berries, cherries, or a mix. Adjust the sugar and spices to match.

5. How do I keep the cake from burning?

Make sure to place more coals on the lid than under the oven, and rotate it every 15 minutes for even baking.