The Essential Car Camping Tool

Car camping is all about enjoying the simple pleasures—being outside, slowing down, and of course, cooking over an open fire. And when it comes to campfire cooking, nothing brings more fun or creativity to the experience than the pudgy pie iron. Whether we’re camping with friends or it’s just the three of us, this tool has become the centerpiece of our camp kitchen.

For Jaime and Frances, the go-to choice is the cream cheese and berry version—a sweet, gooey treat that’s become their favorite. Frances loves to help layer on the cream cheese and berries before we toast it to perfection. The result? A warm, crispy outside with a soft, fruity center. It’s the perfect dessert to share while sitting by the fire.

I’m all about the savory side. My favorite combo? Ham and smoked gouda, sandwiched between two slices of Sweet Hawaiian bread. The smokiness from the fire adds an extra layer of flavor, and I’ve yet to find a better campfire meal. It’s simple, satisfying, and always hits the spot after a day outdoors.

The magic of pudgy pie irons is that they’re so easy to use. Everyone can get involved in making their own creation, and the possibilities are endless—whether you’re craving a cheesy pizza or a chocolate-filled dessert, the pudgy pie iron can handle it. Even the process of cooking with them feels more personal. There’s something about gathering around the fire, flipping the irons, and waiting for that perfect golden toast to reveal itself that makes the whole meal feel like an event.

So, the next time you’re loading up for a car camping trip, don’t forget to pack the pudgy pie irons. They’re more than just a way to make dinner—they’re part of the experience, creating memories with every bite. Plus, who knows? You might just find your own signature pudgy pie creation along the way and remember that the possibilities are endless. Be creative, have fun, and make some amazing memories.

Here are a couple of really amazing pudgy recipes for you; one savory and one sweet.

CK’s Ultimate Campfire Surf & Turf Pudgy Pie

This recipe combines the rich, savory flavors of steak and shrimp (surf & turf), with a cheesy, buttery crust and a hint of garlic and herbs for a campfire twist on gourmet dining.

Ingredients:

• Thinly sliced marinated steak (flank or skirt steak, marinated in olive oil, garlic, and rosemary)
• Cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined, seasoned with a little garlic butter)
• Provolone or mozzarella cheese (for that creamy melt)
• Sautéed mushrooms and onions (pre-cooked for easy assembly)
• Garlic herb butter (to coat the bread or crust)
• Pizza dough or naan bread (for a golden, crispy crust)
• Fresh parsley or chimichurri (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Filling: Marinate the steak in olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté the mushrooms and onions beforehand. Pre-cook the shrimp in garlic butter.
2. Prepare the Crust: Roll out the pizza dough or grab some naan bread. Spread a thin layer of garlic herb butter on one side of the bread or dough to give it that perfect golden crunch.
3. Assemble:

• Lay the pizza dough or naan (buttered side down) on one side of the pudgy pie iron.
• Add a layer of thinly sliced marinated steak, followed by the sautéed mushrooms and onions.
• Top it with a handful of provolone or mozzarella cheese.
• Add a couple of shrimp for that surf & turf magic.
• Optionally, drizzle a little chimichurri sauce or sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish.

1. Cook: Close the pudgy pie iron and cook over the campfire until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted—about 5-8 minutes per side, depending on the heat of your fire.
2. Enjoy: Open the pie iron to reveal the ultimate surf & turf pudgy pie with crispy edges, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked steak and shrimp. Let it cool slightly before biting into the cheesy, savory goodness.

This recipe brings together everything we’ve discussed—it’s indulgent, creative, hearty, and just a little bit adventurous. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and gourmet excitement, and something truly unforgettable on your camping trip.

Finch & Mousie’s Famous Berry & Herb Cream Cheese Pudgy Pie

This pudgy pie combines tangy cream cheese with fresh berries, a touch of honey, and a hint of herbs like mint or basil to create a flavor explosion. The buttery, golden crust wraps around this creamy, sweet, and herbal filling to deliver a sophisticated yet rustic dessert.

Ingredients:

• Crescent roll dough or puff pastry (for a buttery, flaky exterior)
• Cream cheese filling:
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 tablespoon honey (for natural sweetness)
• Zest of 1 lemon (for a citrusy brightness)
• Fresh berries (a mix of blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
• Fresh mint or basil leaves (finely chopped)
• A drizzle of honey (for extra sweetness after cooking)
• Butter (for brushing the dough)

Instructions:

1. Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese with honey and lemon zest until smooth and well combined. The honey adds natural sweetness, while the lemon zest brings out bright flavors.
2. Prepare the Crust: Roll out the crescent roll dough or puff pastry. Brush one side with melted butter for a golden, crisp finish.
3. Assemble:

• Lay the dough (buttered side down) on one side of the pie iron.
• Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on the dough.
• Add a handful of fresh mixed berries on top. The berries will burst and release their juices as they cook, creating a natural sauce.
• Sprinkle finely chopped fresh mint or basil over the berries for an unexpected but refreshing twist.
• Optionally, add a very light drizzle of honey over the berries for extra sweetness.

1. Top and Seal: Place another piece of dough on top and press the edges to seal. Close the pudgy pie iron tightly.
2. Cook: Hold the pudgy pie iron over the fire for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the dough is golden and crispy. Be sure to check it periodically to avoid burning.
3. Finish with a Drizzle of Honey: Once cooked, remove from the iron and let it cool for a minute. Drizzle a little honey on top for a touch of sweetness, and garnish with a couple of fresh mint or basil leaves for presentation.
4. Serve: Slice in half and enjoy the warm, creamy filling paired with the juicy berries and herbal notes. The lemon zest and honey will create a balanced sweet-tart flavor.

This recipe takes the idea of a campfire dessert and transforms it into a more refined, yet still rustic and approachable treat. The combination of herbs and berries is refreshing, while the cream cheese gives it that rich, dessert-like quality.

Happy Camping! ~CK