As the fire settles into that steady, crackling rhythm and the campsite goes quiet, Cast Iron Campfire Apple Cider is the kind of drink that gives everyone an excuse to drift back toward the flames. A heavy cast iron pot hanging over coals turns apple cider into something deeper and rounder, with steam carrying cinnamon and clove through the trees and a bright hit of citrus cutting through the sweetness.
This is slow-simmer camp cooking at its most satisfying: pour in the cider, add your warming spices, and let the heat do the work while you finish setting up camp or pull on an extra layer. The cast iron holds an even, gentle temperature so the cider won’t scorch as easily as it might in a thin pan—especially if you keep it at the edge of the fire and give it an occasional stir.
For a group, it’s an easy win: one pot, minimal prep, and the cleanup is basically a quick rinse and wipe once the last mugs are poured. Serve it piping hot straight from the pot, and don’t be surprised when folks wander over “just to check on the cider” and end up staying awhile.
Cast Iron Campfire Apple Cider
Equipment
- cast iron Dutch oven or pot
- Ladle
- Campfire grate
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider unfiltered if possible
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 whole cloves
- 1 orange sliced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar optional
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions
- Add cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange slices, brown sugar, and allspice to cast iron pot.
- Set over medium campfire heat. Simmer gently, stirring often, for 12-15 minutes until fragrant and hot.
- Ladle into mugs and serve steaming by the fire.
- Remove spices and clean pot soon after serving.