How to Make Baked Potatoes in the Campfire Embers

A Bonfire Night classic cooked the simple way

Introduction

Nothing says Bonfire Night quite like a perfectly baked potato cooked in the glowing embers of a campfire. Simple, comforting and filling, it’s the ideal meal for chilly evenings outdoors — especially when you’re cooking from your campervan or around a firepit.

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity — no oven, no fuss, and just a little patience. Once wrapped in foil and tucked into the embers, the potatoes slowly bake, becoming fluffy on the inside with that unmistakable smoky flavour only an open fire can give.

Ingredients
  • 4 large baking potatoes (Maris Piper or King Edward work best)
  • Olive oil or butter
  • Sea salt
  • Optional toppings: grated cheese, baked beans, crispy bacon, butter, sour cream, or coleslaw
Equipment
  • Campfire with steady glowing embers
  • Heavy-duty tin foil
  • Long tongs or fire gloves
  • Sharp knife
Method

1. Prepare the potatoes:
Wash and dry the potatoes, then prick each one several times with a fork. Rub with a little olive oil or butter and sprinkle with salt.

2. Wrap securely:
Wrap each potato tightly in two layers of tin foil to protect them from the direct heat.

3. Place in the embers:
Using tongs, nestle the foil-wrapped potatoes into the hot embers of the campfire. Avoid open flames — you want steady heat, not burning.

4. Cook slowly:
Let them bake for 45–60 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.

5. Check and serve:
Carefully remove with tongs, unwrap, and test with a knife — it should slide in easily. Serve with your favourite toppings and enjoy straight from the foil for that rustic feel.

Tips for Success
  • Don’t rush — a slower bake gives you fluffier insides and crispier skins.
  • If cooking in a van, you can achieve a similar result using a portable gas stove and a lidded frying pan with foil-wrapped potatoes inside.
  • Add a pat of butter or grated cheese as soon as they’re opened to melt into the hot potato.
Conclusion

Cooking baked potatoes in the embers is one of the simplest joys of Bonfire Night. They’re hearty, warming, and the perfect way to refuel while watching the fireworks. Whether at a campsite, in your van, or around a backyard firepit, this recipe captures the comfort and nostalgia of autumn evenings outdoors.