How to Make Campfire Cones with Peanut Butter Cups

Name: How to Make Campfire Cones with Peanut Butter Cups
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-492083H52M27S
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: Waffle cones; Mini marshmallows; Chocolate chips; Reese’s Mini Peanut Butter Cups; Reese’s Pieces; Aluminum foil

Posted on June 14, 2025

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There’s something magical about campfire desserts. The moment the first marshmallow melts and chocolate begins to ooze, summer feels like it’s truly arrived. But when you add the bold flavor of Reese’s candy, you take the tradition to a whole new level of indulgence. Reese’s Campfire Cones aren’t just a snack—they’re an experience.

Perfect for cookouts, camping trips, or just cozy backyard nights, these waffle cone delights are stuffed with layers of mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, Reese’s Mini Cups, and Reese’s Pieces. They combine everything you love about s’mores with the portability and fun of handheld cones.

Families looking for an exciting twist on traditional s’mores will love how easy these are to assemble and roast. Whether you’re baking them at home or grilling over hot coals, they deliver that nostalgic gooey goodness with a signature peanut butter and chocolate twist. For more fun outdoor dessert ideas, check out this list of camping treats and also explore our own S’mores Ice Cream Sandwich recipe.

These cones are more than just a hit with kids—they’re a serious crowd-pleaser for adults, too. Their customizable nature allows for lots of creative mix-ins. You can switch up the chocolate or add sprinkles, cookie crumbles, or even some crushed cereal to the layers. For those who enjoy dessert variations like Peanut Butter Cup S’mores Bars, this cone version is a fun handheld cousin.

They’re also a lifesaver for busy families. No need for baking sheets or lots of dishes—just fill, wrap, and heat. If you’re looking for more no-mess ideas, this foil-pack desserts roundup might inspire even more gooey creations.

What really sets Reese’s Campfire Cones apart is the balance of textures and flavors. The crispness of the waffle cone plays perfectly against the soft, melty center. And each bite surprises with a new combination of peanut butter, rich chocolate, or soft marshmallow. This layered treat taps into that nostalgic craving while still feeling fresh and fun. And for anyone searching for quick camping desserts or fun summer activities with kids, this recipe fits both lists beautifully.

Before we dive into the easy prep and cooking methods, know this—Reese’s Campfire Cones are more than a snack. They’re an edible memory waiting to happen. And unlike some overly complicated outdoor recipes, these cones keep things simple, sweet, and joy-filled.

🛠️ how to make reese’s campfire cones at home or at the campsite

Creating Reese’s Campfire Cones is a breeze whether you’re planning a backyard party, heading to a summer campsite, or simply baking indoors with the kids. The setup is minimal, but the payoff is sweet, gooey, and totally irresistible.

Start by prepping your waffle cones. These sturdy cones are ideal because they won’t easily break under the pressure of all those layered fillings. Inside each cone, you’ll begin building layers of classic treats—think mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and chunks of Reese’s Minis. You can even toss in a few Reese’s Pieces for a colorful, crunchy surprise in every bite.

To avoid messy spills during heating, wrap each cone securely in aluminum foil. Begin by sealing the open top where the fillings peek out, then fold the foil down and around the entire cone like a pouch. This keeps everything inside while also making the cone easier to handle on the grill or oven tray.

Cooking these cones is flexible depending on where you are. At home, simply pop them onto a baking tray and place them in the oven. In about 10 minutes, everything inside turns melty and magical. If you’re outside, place the foil-wrapped cones near hot campfire coals—not directly in the flames—or on a hot grill. They only need a few minutes to warm up, and you can turn them occasionally to ensure even melting.

Once the cones are heated through, let them cool for a minute or two before unwrapping. That first bite? Absolute bliss. For more ideas on foolproof outdoor recipes, you might want to visit this easy grilling desserts guide. You can also browse our collection of kid-friendly summer sweets for more inspiration.

What’s really fun is that these cones are totally customizable. Want to make them extra crunchy? Add crushed graham crackers. Love a bit of fruity balance? A few banana slices or freeze-dried berries tucked between the marshmallows can do the trick. There are even vegan versions that swap the marshmallows and chocolate with plant-based alternatives, making this recipe inclusive for most diets. If you’re planning a summer party, pair them with other low-prep crowd favorites like our Frozen Yogurt Blueberry Bites or Cheesecake de Mango.

🧁 tips for customizing your cones with fun variations

One of the best things about Reese’s Campfire Cones is how adaptable they are. While the classic combination of marshmallows, chocolate chips, Reese’s Mini Cups, and Reese’s Pieces hits every note of gooey, crunchy, and sweet, there are countless ways to make them your own.

For a fun twist, try using white chocolate chips or even butterscotch morsels in place of traditional chocolate. These subtle swaps give each cone a new flavor profile without changing the familiar comfort of the original treat. Craving texture? Add a handful of crushed pretzels, cookie bits, or toffee pieces to bring salty crunch into the mix. These layers balance the soft and melty elements beautifully, especially when contrasted with the crisp cone.

Families can also customize these cones for dietary needs or preferences. Use dairy-free chocolate and gelatin-free marshmallows to make a vegan-friendly version, or swap peanut butter candy for alternatives like sunflower butter cups for nut-free options. If you’re looking for more allergy-conscious desserts, our guide to no-nut party treats includes plenty of compatible ideas that pair perfectly with campfire fun.

Want to take it over the top? Dip the cone’s rim in melted chocolate and roll it in sprinkles, crushed cereal, or chopped peanuts. Let it set before filling for an extra decorative touch that makes each cone feel special. You can even pre-fill and freeze them, then bake or grill when ready to serve. Check out this frozen campfire cone prep tutorial for tips on making ahead.

When you’re serving a crowd—especially a group of kids—set up a DIY cone bar. Arrange bowls of mini candies, marshmallows, fruit bits, and chocolate chips so everyone can create a personalized masterpiece. This turns dessert into an activity, making it ideal for birthday parties, backyard BBQs, or summer gatherings. Want to make it educational for little chefs? Pair this activity with our kitchen skills for kids guide to combine fun with learning.

You can also theme your cones for holidays or special occasions. Think red, white, and blue candy for the Fourth of July, pastel colors for spring, or orange and brown tones for autumn. Seasonal candy blends can make the cones feel festive year-round, without changing the basic method. If you love this kind of seasonal creativity, our Holiday Treat Decorating Ideas will offer tons of easy and colorful inspiration.

Here are a few more fun ideas to spark creativity:

Crunch Lover’s Cone: Add granola or chopped nuts for texture.
Tropical Cone: Use dried pineapple, coconut shreds, and white chocolate.

Cookie Explosion Cone: Mix in cookie crumbs and mini chocolate sandwich cookies.
S’mores Deluxe: Add graham cracker crumbles and caramel bits.

Berry Blast Cone: Toss in freeze-dried strawberries or raspberries.

These ideas are easy to adapt and help ensure there’s something for everyone. If you’re building out a full summer dessert menu, pair these cones with refreshing options like our Agua de Frutas Estilo La Michoacana or Frozen Yogurt Blueberry Bites to round out the table with both cool and gooey textures.

Customizing cones also offers a way to reduce waste. Use up leftover Halloween candy, broken graham crackers, or even cereal crumbs hiding in your pantry. The forgiving nature of this recipe makes it the perfect blank canvas for experimenting with flavors, textures, and colors.

And if you’re planning a camping trip, prepare a few variations in advance, wrap them in foil, and label them with a marker. That way, when dessert time rolls around, everyone gets a cone that matches their cravings. Want more campfire-ready snacks? This roundup of foil packet desserts includes several recipes that pair beautifully with your cone bar.

Whether you’re crafting a cone for a picky eater or a gourmet sweet tooth, the possibilities are practically endless. That’s the beauty of Reese’s Campfire Cones—they offer a base that’s universally loved but infinitely adjustable.

🔥 campfire cone safety tips and serving ideas

Whether you’re making Reese’s Campfire Cones on a camping trip, at a bonfire, or in your backyard grill, a little prep and a few safety tips can make all the difference. These cones are fun, kid-friendly, and easy to cook—but keeping them safe and mess-free ensures everyone has a sweet time.

Start with foil. Always use heavy-duty aluminum foil to wrap each cone securely. This prevents the marshmallows and chocolate from leaking out and protects the cone from burning or becoming too soggy. When wrapping, fold the foil tightly around the top to seal in the fillings. Then crimp the bottom and sides so heat reaches every part of the cone evenly.

When cooking over open flames or hot coals, remember that the cones should not be placed directly in the fire. The best spot is over indirect heat, like the edge of a grill or a rock ledge near the flame. If you’re using a grill, place the wrapped cones on the top rack or in a cooler zone. Turn them gently every 2–3 minutes for even melting. If you’re baking them in an oven, place them upright on a baking tray to keep the fillings layered and neat.

Use tongs or a long-handled spatula to remove hot cones from heat. The foil can become extremely hot, and grabbing it with bare hands is a common mistake. Let the cones cool slightly before serving. A one- or two-minute pause helps the fillings settle just enough to avoid burning your mouth—but keeps that warm, gooey center intact.

These cones are also great for make-ahead prep. You can fill and wrap them up to 24 hours before you plan to cook. Just keep them refrigerated until ready to heat. If you’re preparing for a larger event like a BBQ or scout trip, consider labeling each cone with a guest’s name or filling type using a marker on the foil. Want more tips for prepping meals in advance? Our guide to freezer-friendly desserts has plenty of make-ahead ideas that work just as well for outdoor treats.

Serving the cones is just as fun as making them. Here are a few ideas to make your dessert setup extra memorable:

Cone Caddies: Use a muffin tin or mini paper cups to hold cones upright for serving.
Topping Station: Offer drizzle toppings like melted chocolate, peanut butter, or marshmallow fluff for guests to spoon over their cones.

Cooling Zone: Lay out parchment paper on a tray so cones can rest without sticking to surfaces.
Mini Cones for Kids: Use mini waffle cones for smaller servings—especially helpful for younger children or lighter desserts after a big meal.
Serving with Sides: Pair with fruit skewers, graham crackers, or even a scoop of vanilla yogurt for a more complete treat.

If you’re hosting a summer gathering, you can add a themed touch by serving cones in colorful napkins, cupcake wrappers, or placing them in mason jars. These little details go a long way in making the dessert table feel fun and polished. For more entertaining ideas, visit this summer party dessert setup inspiration.

For indoor serving, bake the cones ahead of time, unwrap them, and stand them upright in mason jars. Add a small spoon or skewer for scooping out all the melty layers. For a colder twist, try freezing the cones after baking and cooling, then serve them chilled for a candy bar-style treat. It’s a nice contrast to traditional warm desserts and pairs beautifully with fruit platters or chilled drinks.

And don’t forget about eco-friendly cleanup. Since foil can often be recycled if not soiled by food residue, encourage guests to unwrap cones carefully and separate the trash. If you’re using decorative serving paper or disposable caddies, choose compostable or recyclable materials whenever possible. This makes Reese’s Campfire Cones not just fun—but also friendly for the planet.

If you’re planning to serve these as part of a larger camping menu, consider pairing them with other easy outdoor recipes like our Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet or Bubble Up Pizza Bake. These dishes cook fast and clean up easily, leaving more time for dessert and fun.

In the end, the beauty of Reese’s Campfire Cones lies in how they bring people together. They’re a treat made to share, perfect for laughter, late-night stories, and sticky fingers. And with just a little planning and creativity, they become more than a dessert—they become a moment everyone will remember.

📊 nutrition facts

Here’s a general breakdown for Reese’s Campfire Cones based on one full waffle cone filled with standard ingredients. Values will vary depending on your exact mix-ins and portion size.

Nutrient	Amount (per cone)
Calories	~310 kcal
Total Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	6g
Carbohydrates	42g
Sugars	30g
Protein	4g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	90mg

🍽️ faqs

can i make these ahead of time?
Yes! Fill and wrap the cones up to a day in advance. Keep them in the fridge or a cooler until ready to bake or grill. For more make-ahead recipes, see our prep-ahead dessert ideas.

what are some fun cone variations?
Try swapping Reese’s candy with other favorites like mini cookies, crushed cereal, or chocolate-covered raisins. For a more tropical twist, toss in dried pineapple and coconut flakes. Need more ideas? Browse this creative s’mores twist article.

how do i serve these without a mess?
Use a muffin tin or cupcake liner to keep cones upright. Allow 1–2 minutes of cooling before unwrapping to prevent burns. Bonus: provide small spoons for scooping the gooey center.

can these be made indoors without a fire?
Absolutely! The oven version works just as well. You can also use a toaster oven or even an air fryer at low heat. For more indoor summer treats, check out our no-fire required recipes.

what if i don’t have waffle cones?
You can use sugar cones or even make “campfire cups” by layering ingredients in a small foil cupcake liner and sealing them before baking. For a heartier version, try stuffing tortillas and rolling them up burrito-style before wrapping in foil.

is this recipe safe for kids to help with?
Definitely! Let kids assemble their cones, then adults handle the cooking. It’s a great way to involve them in dessert-making while keeping the heat handling to grown-ups.

how can i make these more allergy-friendly?
Substitute nut-free candies or use dairy-free chocolate chips. Check out our allergy-friendly dessert options for complete substitutions that fit this recipe.

do they travel well?
Yes! Pack them in a cooler until ready to grill, or bring pre-wrapped versions on your next camping trip. They’re also a hit at beach cookouts, park picnics, and RV trips.