Roasting Coffee Over Open Fire (DIY Camping Guide)

Ever skipped out on camping because you hate those relentless mosquitoes? That was totally me. I loved the idea of camping, but the thought of swatting bugs all night? No thanks.

But when I decided to write this guide on roasting coffee over an open fire, I knew I had to experience it firsthand—even with the mosquitoes.

So, I packed up, faced my fears, and discovered that the experience was worth every mosquito bite. Roasting coffee outdoors, under a blanket of stars with a crackling fire, was more satisfying than I ever imagined.

I picked up some great tips and tricks that made the process not just bearable but genuinely fun.

In this guide, I’ll share what I learned about roasting coffee while camping—from setting up your fire and picking the right gear to getting that perfect roast and staying safe. Let’s start roasting.

Key Takeaways

• Roasting coffee over an open fire connects you with nature and adds a unique, smoky flavor that you just can’t get from a conventional roaster. It’s an experience that’s as much about the process as it is about the coffee.
• The right gear makes all the difference—from a sturdy cast iron skillet to heat-resistant gloves, having the proper equipment ensures a safe and successful roasting experience. Don’t forget to experiment with different types of wood to find your perfect flavor.
• Safety is key when roasting outdoors. Always have a water bucket or fire extinguisher nearby, wear protective gear, and control the fire’s intensity. These steps keep your adventure safe and fun.

Why Roast Coffee Over an Open Fire?

I’ll never forget my first time camping and deciding to roast coffee over an open fire. I didn’t really know what I was doing. But I wanted to try something new.

The experience was something else—exciting, challenging, and surprisingly rewarding. So, here are a few reasons:

1 – Connection to Nature

It connects you with nature in a way that’s hard to explain. There I was, under a clear sky, the fire crackling and the fresh air all around. Stirring those beans by hand, I felt a real bond with my surroundings.

It wasn’t just about making coffee but about being in the moment, surrounded by the natural world. The smells of roasting beans and fresh air combined into something special that you can’t get at home.

2 – Flavor Exploration

The flavors you get from roasting over an open flame are unlike anything else. My first batch had a smoky, earthy taste that was totally unexpected and absolutely delicious. The fire adds a unique layer of flavor that you don’t get with a regular roaster.

3 – Self-Sufficiency

There’s something deeply satisfying about roasting your own coffee in the great outdoors. For instance, you build a fire, watch the beans, and finally enjoy the result of your effort.

Then you’ll love that first step, knowing you roasted those beans with your hands. I find it incredibly fulfilling. So, if you ever get the chance to try it, do it.

Essential Equipment for Open Fire Coffee Roasting

So, here’s the equipment I suggest you bring:

Cast Iron Skillet or Pan

This is my go-to method for roasting coffee outdoors. A cast iron skillet is tough, retains heat really well, and gives a consistent roast. It’s perfect for camping—simple and reliable. Just keep shaking the skillet to avoid burning the beans!

Roasting Cage or Popcorn Popper

A roasting cage or an old popcorn popper also does the trick. They make it easy to stir the beans, ensuring they roast evenly without burning. Plus, they’re great for keeping an eye on the color change as you roast.

Heat-Resistant Gloves

I learned pretty quickly that heat-resistant gloves are essential when dealing with an open fire. They protect your hands when you’re handling hot tools and equipment. After a few close calls, I never roast without them now!

Long-Handled Spoon or Stick

A long-handled spoon or stick is perfect for stirring the beans while keeping your hands away from the heat. I use a long wooden spoon—it’s just the right length to keep the beans moving and prevent scorching.

Thermometer

While optional, a thermometer can be super helpful if you want to get precise with your roast. I brought a basic instant-read thermometer, which helped me monitor the bean temperature and know when I was close to that “first crack.”

Step-by-Step Guide to Roasting Coffee Over an Open Fire

Well, there’s a bit of a learning curve. But don’t worry, soon you’ll get the hang of it. Especially if you follow these steps:

Step 1: Setting Up Your Campfire

First things first, you need a safe spot for your campfire. I learned to choose a level area away from anything flammable and clear of debris.

It’s all about safety here—you don’t want surprises while trying to roast. Also, gathering the right type of wood is crucial.

I suggest hardwood like oak or hickory because it burns consistently. Usually, softer woods produce uneven heat, which can make roasting more unpredictable. A steady, consistent fire is key to getting a good roast.

Step 2: Preparing Your Roasting Equipment

Once your fire is set up, it’s time to get your roasting gear ready. Make sure your skillet or roasting cage is clean and completely dry.

Any leftover moisture can affect the roast, and you don’t want that. I also recommend preheating your equipment over the fire to a moderate temperature.

But not too hot, though—you want to avoid burning the beans before they even get started. I found that heating the skillet or roasting cage for a few minutes does the trick. It’s just enough to get things going without risking a scorch.

Step 3: Roasting the Beans

Now comes the fun part: roasting the beans! So, add a small batch of green coffee beans to your skillet or roasting cage.

You should start with a small amount to practice. Also, constant stirring is essential—I can’t stress this enough. If you don’t stir, the beans will scorch on one side and stay raw on the other.

For this reason, keep an eye on the color and listen closely for the “first crack,” which sounds like popcorn popping. This is your signal that the beans are reaching a light roast.

If you’re going for a darker roast, listen for the “second crack,” which is a faster, more intense sound.

Step 4: Cooling the Beans

Once the beans reach your desired roast level, it’s crucial to cool them quickly. I learned the hard way that leaving them in the hot skillet will continue cooking them, which can lead to over-roasting.

Then remove the beans from the heat immediately and transfer them to a cooling tray or metal bowl. Stir them constantly to cool them down quickly and halt the roasting process.

I like using a metal bowl because it cools faster and helps stop the roast in its tracks. It’s a simple trick, but it makes a big difference in the final flavor.

Safety Tips for Roasting Coffee Outdoors

When you’re roasting coffee over an open fire, safety should always be a top priority. So, here are some tips:

1 – Maintain Fire Safe

I always have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby. Because you never know when a sudden gust of wind could send sparks flying or when the fire might get a little too enthusiastic. For this reason, having a way to quickly douse the flames is important.

2 – Wear Proper Gear

I suggest you protect yourself by wearing heat-resistant gloves and long sleeves. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been grateful for my gloves when adjusting the skillet or stirring the beans.

Long sleeves help protect against stray sparks or embers that might pop out of the fire. Especially when you’re up close and personal with the roasting.

3 – Control the Fire

Avoid overstocking the fire to prevent flare-ups. It’s tempting to keep adding wood to keep the fire hot, but too much can cause it to flare up unexpectedly.

Also, this can ruin your roast by creating uneven heat and causing serious safety risks. So, keep the fire steady and controlled for the best roasting results and the safest experience.

Achieving the Perfect Roast: Tips and Tricks

I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks to help you reach that perfect roast, whether you’re a light, medium, or dark coffee fan.

Experiment with Roasting Times

I didn’t realize how much the roasting time would impact the flavor. The longer the beans roast, the darker and more robust the flavor becomes.

I found it helpful to play around with different roasting times to see what worked best for me. Here’s a simple table I put together based on my experiences:

Roast Level	Roasting Time (approx.)	Flavor Profile
Light Roast	5-7 minutes	Bright, acidic, with fruity or floral notes.
Medium Roast	8-10 minutes	Balanced, with caramel undertones and a bit more body.
Dark Roast	11-13 minutes	Rich, bold, with deep chocolate and nutty flavors.

Note: I suggest starting with shorter times and gradually extending them as you get a feel for how the beans react to the heat. Keep a close eye (and ear) on those “first” and “second cracks” to nail the exact roast you’re after.

Use Different Types of Wood

Using different woods can add unique notes to your roast. For example, using oak or hickory tends to give the coffee a slightly smoky, earthy flavor, which I found perfect for those darker roasts.

On the other hand, fruitwoods like apple or cherry can add a subtle sweetness that works well with lighter roasts. So experiment with woods and see how it goes.

Adjust Heat and Stirring Frequency

Controlling the fire’s intensity and stirring the beans regularly is crucial for a good roast. If the fire is too hot, you risk scorching the beans before their flavors fully develop.

So keeping a moderate and steady flame is key. I found that stirring the beans every 10-15 seconds helps ensure an even roast and prevents burning.

Note: Every roast can vary, so trust your instincts and adjust as needed.

Last Thoughts

Roasting coffee over an open fire is more than just a way to make coffee—it’s an adventure that brings you closer to nature and adds a whole new layer to your camping experience.

Whether you’re experimenting with different roasting times, trying out different woods for unique flavors, or just enjoying the process of creating something with your own hands, there’s something truly special about it.

So, grab your gear, head out into the great outdoors, and give it a try!

And hey, I’d love to hear how your roasting adventures go! Leave a comment below and share your experiences or any tips you’ve picked up along the way. And with that, voilà!