A reflector oven is a simple device, consisting of some sheet metal, a hinge and a rack. This all folds into itself for ease in transport. You will find the oven a great accessory when camping with kids or a large party.
The oven can be used for everything from biscuits to birthday cakes. You will find it easier if you bring premixed ingredients. If you have a hot fire, it should not take any longer than at home in your oven. Of course we all know everything taste better when cooked outside.
Start by making an opening in one side of your fire pit. Set a few rocks aside as you will need them later to level the oven.
I have found the best fuel for the fire is limbs. They burn faster therefore they make instant heat. Also some woods will pop as it burns and you don't want ashes in your food. Branches also make a higher fire directing heat to the top of your oven.
Now that you have a good hot fire going set the oven in the opening you made. Remember those rocks you set aside? You can use them to prop the oven up so that it is level now. If you don't level the oven you cake will tilt and be thicker on one side.
Slide your pans onto the rack and add fuel to your fire. As your food cooks, you must keep adding branches to the fire in order to keep the temperature up.
When the food looks done put your mitts or gloves on and slide the pan out of the oven. Check it with a toothpick and dig in.
Remove your reflector oven from the fire ring and replace the rocks to close in the fire. After the reflector oven cools, simply fold flat and store it away.
The best part of all this is the smiles on the faces of everyone in camp. Surprise someone you know with a birthday cake the next time you go camping.
