What is a Mountain Pie? Discover the Campfire Treat You Need to Try

Mountain pies might sound like something you find only in the mountains, but they are much more than that. These simple yet delicious treats have a special place in camping culture and backyard cookouts. If you’ve ever wondered what a mountain pie is and why it’s so popular, this article will give you a clear picture. You’ll learn about its origins, how it’s made, and why it’s a favorite for outdoor cooking.

What Exactly Is a Mountain Pie?

A mountain pie is a toasted sandwich cooked over an open flame or camp stove, made using a special cast-iron sandwich maker often called a “pie iron.” The basic idea is to take two slices of bread, fill them with your choice of ingredients, clamp them inside the pie iron, and cook them until the bread is golden brown and crispy. The result is a warm, handheld pocket filled with melted, savory, or sweet fillings.

These pies go by different names depending on the region and brand of pie iron used. Some call them campfire pies, pudgy pies, or sandwich toasters, but the term “mountain pie” is often associated with the classic style of this outdoor treat.

A Brief History of Mountain Pies

Mountain pies date back to the early 1900s when campers and outdoor enthusiasts looked for simple, portable ways to cook food over campfires. The invention of the cast-iron pie iron made it easy to make hot sandwiches without needing an oven or stove. It quickly became a staple for families on camping trips, hiking adventures, and backyard gatherings.

The name “mountain pie” likely comes from its association with mountain camping and outdoor cooking in rugged terrains. The tool itself has been produced by many companies over the years, such as The Original Pie Iron Company and Coghlan’s, which helped spread the popularity of this snack.

How Do You Make a Mountain Pie?

Making a mountain pie is simple and requires just a few ingredients and tools:

• Bread: Usually white or whole wheat sandwich bread works best.
• Filling: Anything from cheese and ham, peanut butter and jelly, pizza toppings, or even sweet fillings like fruit and chocolate.
• Pie iron: A cast-iron or non-stick sandwich press designed for open-fire cooking.

Steps:

1. Lightly butter the outside of each bread slice to ensure a crispy, golden crust.
2. Place one slice in the pie iron, butter side down.
3. Add your chosen fillings on top.
4. Cover with the second slice, butter side up.
5. Close the pie iron and clamp it shut.
6. Hold the pie iron over hot coals or a campfire, flipping occasionally.
7. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes on each side or until the bread is toasted and the filling is hot and melted.

Once cooked, open the iron carefully—it will be hot—and enjoy your freshly made mountain pie.

Why Are Mountain Pies So Popular?

Mountain pies are popular because they are easy to make, customizable, and fun to cook outdoors. They bring a nostalgic feeling of camping and simple living. Here are some reasons they have stayed a favorite for decades:

• Versatility: You can put almost anything inside a mountain pie. Savory options like cheese and ham, or sweet choices like apples and cinnamon, make it a flexible snack or meal.
• Portability: Since mountain pies cook in a compact iron, they are easy to bring along on camping trips or picnics.
• Minimal Equipment: All you need is a fire or heat source and a pie iron. No complicated cooking gear required.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love helping make mountain pies because they can pick their favorite fillings and watch the magic happen as the sandwich cooks.
• Outdoor Experience: Cooking over a campfire creates a unique experience that turns a simple sandwich into a memorable treat.

Popular Mountain Pie Filling Ideas

To get the best from your mountain pie, try some of these popular fillings:

• Classic grilled cheese with cheddar or American cheese.
• Ham and Swiss cheese with a touch of mustard.
• Pepperoni, mozzarella, and pizza sauce for a quick pizza pie.
• Peanut butter and banana slices for a sweet, energy-packed snack.
• Nutella and strawberries for a dessert-style mountain pie.
• S’mores version with chocolate and marshmallows.

The options are endless, and you can get creative depending on your taste and what you have on hand.

Tips for Perfect Mountain Pies

If you want to make mountain pies like a pro, keep these tips in mind:

• Butter the bread well on the outside to avoid sticking and to get a nice golden crust.
• Don’t overfill the pie iron to prevent filling from leaking out during cooking.
• Rotate or flip the pie iron every couple of minutes for even cooking.
• Use a heat-resistant glove or tongs when handling the pie iron as it gets very hot.
• Clean the pie iron after use to keep it in good shape. Cast iron benefits from seasoning with oil.

Where to Get a Pie Iron

Pie irons are widely available online and in outdoor stores. You can find them in cast iron, aluminum, or non-stick versions. Prices vary based on brand and material, but even an affordable model will last for many camping seasons.

If you want to try mountain pies without buying a pie iron, some people improvise with a grill basket or use a sandwich press over a stove, but nothing matches the authentic campfire experience.

Final Thoughts on Mountain Pies

Mountain pies bring together simplicity, nostalgia, and creativity. They offer a tasty way to enjoy cooking outdoors with friends and family. Whether you are camping deep in the woods or just enjoying a backyard fire pit, mountain pies can make any meal feel special.

If you haven’t tried one yet, grab a pie iron, pick your favorite fillings, and start experimenting. This classic treat is easy to make, delicious, and sure to become a favorite for your next outdoor adventure.