Orange Campfire Brownies

The campfire baking didn't stop at multigrain bread.  We also experimented with fresh baked brownies made within the peel of an orange, baked by the fire.  They were a total disaster, but so much fun to make and eat, and a great alternative to traditional campfire treats.

Now that I've made every mistake possible, I'm pretty sure these instructions will be a huge success on our next camping trip.

1. Slice 1/2 inch off the top of the orange and scoop out most (or all) of the pulp by sliding a spoon along the inside of the orange, separating the meat from the pulp.  Be careful not to tare the orange peel which will cause leakage.

Don't throw away the top slice - this will go back on top for baking.

The orange meat was a nice campfire treat itself, but I squeezed some of it into the brownie mix for flavor and to replace a small portion of the wet ingredients.

2. Mix brownie or any kind of cake mix according to package directions, or from scratch! 

We used Trader Joe's No Pudge chocolate brownie mix, plain greek yogurt and a tiny splash of almond extract to add flavor since the yogurt was Plain.  Nuts might be a nice addition as well

3.  Scoop the mix into the orange, filling half way.  Don't forget that batter rises when baked and will create a sticky mess as it overflows the orange and tinfoil, so best to fill half way.  Top with the orange slice.

4.  Wrap in tinfoil and gently place next to hot coals of fire.  Bake for 20-40 minutes, turning every ten minutes to ensure even baking.  Try to keep upright until brownie has shown some sign of being cooked.

5. Unwrap and eat with a spoon, or squeeze the orange to push the brownie out through the top.