Pie Iron

If you’ve never experienced a gooey, golden-brown campfire sandwich made in a pie iron, you’re in for a treat. A pie iron—sometimes called a “camp cooker” or “sandwich maker”—consists of two cast iron plates hinged together with a handle. The design allows you to sandwich bread and fillings, clamp it shut, and hold it directly over a fire or in the coals. In minutes, you get a crispy, sealed pocket of deliciousness.

The classic pie iron recipe is a simple grilled cheese, but don’t let that limit you. You can stuff your creation with pizza sauce and mozzarella for a quick campfire calzone, load it with fruit pie filling for a sweet dessert, or even scramble eggs with bacon for a hearty breakfast on the go. The key is to butter (or oil) the iron well, preventing the bread or dough from sticking and enhancing the crunchy exterior.

Cast iron versions retain heat beautifully and tend to last for decades if cared for properly. As with any cast iron, seasoning is essential. Wipe it down with a thin layer of cooking oil, then let it bake in the fire or your home oven. After each use, a quick clean and re-oiling maintain that nonstick surface. Some modern pie irons come in aluminum, which is lighter but may not deliver the same even browning.

Because you’re cooking directly in or near an open flame, handle length is important. Longer handles keep you a safe distance from the fire’s heat, but they can be more cumbersome to pack. Some models feature detachable handles that unscrew or fold, making them more travel-friendly.

As you might guess, you need to pay attention while cooking. Flames can char your sandwich quickly if you’re not rotating or checking the iron. Typically, you hold the iron over the heat for a couple of minutes on each side, but times vary depending on the fire’s intensity. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be cranking out toasted treats left and right.

Part of the fun is the interactive, almost nostalgic aspect of pie irons. Everyone in the camping group can assemble their own concoction—sweet, savory, or somewhere in between—and wait eagerly as the bread crisps up. There’s a sense of playful experimentation: maybe you toss in peanut butter and chocolate chips, or leftover roasted veggies. Whatever you choose, you’ll get a piping-hot sandwich or pocket pie with minimal fuss, capturing the essence of carefree campfire cooking.