S’mores are a classic—no denying it. But if you’ve ever dealt with sticky fingers, flaming marshmallows, or broken graham crackers around the fire, you know the struggle is real. That’s exactly why I’m obsessed with Campfire Cones. They take everything I love about s’mores and pack it neatly into a crisp, toasty cone that’s fun to make and even more fun to eat.
The first time I made these, we were camping with friends, and I wanted a treat that didn’t involve skewers or constantly watching the fire. I wrapped a cone full of chocolate and marshmallows in foil, tossed it into the embers, and a few minutes later—pure gooey perfection. Since then, these have become a must-do for every bonfire, BBQ, or even rainy day when we’re roasting things in the oven instead.
Let me show you exactly how I make them and why this twist on a classic campfire treat has earned a permanent spot in our summer tradition.
Why These Campfire Cones Work
These aren’t just fun—they’re smart. Here’s what makes them a go-to dessert for outdoors (or indoors!):
- Less mess: Everything’s contained in a cone, no sticky drips or falling marshmallows.
- Totally customizable: Each person can build their own dream combo.
- Easy to make ahead: Prep them at home, then toss them in the cooler until fire time.
- No campfire required: They work great in the oven or on the grill too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Makes as many as you want | Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 5–7 minutes)
- Sugar cones (waffle cones work too for extra room)
- Mini marshmallows
- Chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, white, or even peanut butter chips)
- Optional mix-ins:
- Crushed graham crackers
- Banana slices
- Strawberries or raspberries
- Peanut butter cups, Rolos, or chopped candy bars
- Caramel bits
- Shredded coconut
- Chopped nuts
- Aluminum foil for wrapping
How I Make Campfire Cones
1. Build the Cones
I start by setting out all the fillings buffet-style—kind of like a s’mores sundae bar. Everyone grabs a cone and fills it with whatever they love. I layer marshmallows and chocolate chips first so they melt evenly, then add things like fruit, crushed graham crackers, or peanut butter cups on top.
The key is to pack the cone full—but not so tight that the marshmallows can’t melt. I usually leave a little space at the top and finish with a couple more mini marshmallows for that golden-brown top layer.
2. Wrap and Heat
Once the cones are filled, I wrap each one tightly in aluminum foil. You want it sealed well so the heat stays in and nothing leaks out.
Over a campfire: I place the foil-wrapped cones on hot coals (not direct flame) for 5–7 minutes, rotating once or twice.
On a grill: I set them on indirect heat and close the lid for about 5 minutes.
In the oven: I bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 7–10 minutes until everything is melted inside.
3. Unwrap and Enjoy
After heating, I carefully unwrap the cones (they’ll be hot!) and let them cool for a minute or two. Then it’s straight to s’mores heaven—melty, gooey, chocolate-loaded deliciousness, all in a handheld cone.
My Tips for Campfire Cone Success
- Use mini ingredients: Mini marshmallows and chips melt more evenly than full-sized ones.
- Prep ahead: Wrap the filled cones at home, store them in a resealable bag or container, and they’re ready to toss on the fire.
- Add texture: Crushed pretzels or cereal add a fun crunch.
- Don’t overfill: Too many fillings can cause the cone to split or leak.
- Use waffle cones for bigger appetites: They hold more and don’t get soggy as fast.
How I Serve and Store Them
These are best served warm, right after they’re unwrapped. If I’m prepping for a big group, I’ll make a dozen or more in advance and label them with a Sharpie on the foil so everyone gets their custom cone.
For leftovers (on the rare occasion there are any), I store unheated, filled cones in the fridge for a couple of days. They’re perfect for popping in the oven when you want a quick dessert without the campfire.
FAQs From My Fire Pit
Q: Can I use gluten-free cones?
A: Absolutely—just check the label on your cones and other mix-ins like candy bars.
Q: What if I don’t have a fire pit or grill?
A: The oven works beautifully. You’ll still get that gooey, toasty flavor without stepping outside.
Q: Can I add fruit?
A: Yes! Banana slices, strawberries, and raspberries are all amazing melted with chocolate.
Q: How do I keep the cones from getting soggy?
A: Don’t overfill with wet ingredients, and eat them right after heating. A thicker cone (like a waffle cone) helps too.
Why You Need Campfire Cones in Your Summer Lineup
Campfire Cones take the best parts of s’mores and turn them into a handheld, customizable, no-fuss dessert. They’re fun to make, even more fun to eat, and just as good whether you’re sitting around a fire or curled up on the couch with a warm cone fresh from the oven.
So next time you’re craving that nostalgic campfire treat, skip the skewers and grab a cone. It’s everything you love—just smarter, easier, and way more delicious.
Campfire Cones
Ingredients
- 4 waffle cones
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
- Optional toppings: sliced strawberries, bananas, or peanut butter
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or prepare a campfire.
- Take each waffle cone and fill it with mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and crushed graham crackers.
- If desired, add sliced strawberries, bananas, or a dollop of peanut butter for extra flavor.
- Wrap each filled cone in aluminum foil.
- Place the cones on the grill or near the campfire for about 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally until the chocolate is melted and the marshmallows are gooey.
- Carefully unwrap and enjoy your delicious Campfire Cones!
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