A propane fire pit is a wonderful alternative for anyone unable to build a traditional wood-burning campfire in their backyard. Many propane fire pits can even be used on decks, patios, and other outdoor living spaces where a regular bonfire just wouldn’t be possible.
Of course, sitting around a roaring fire is only half of the fun. The real question is: Can you roast marshmallows on a propane fire pit?
Can You Roast Marshmallows on a Propane Fire Pit?
Yes!
Propane is a popular fuel for culinary purposes. While propane does have an odor for safety reasons, this odor is created by an additive that burns away before it reaches the food.
Propane fire pits are not designed for roasting marshmallows. But doing so is generally safe and easy, especially if you don’t have access to a traditional wood-burning fire.
Is It Safe To Roast Marshmallows Over Lava Rock or Fire Glass?
Many decorative fire pits feature lava rock or fire glass. These materials fill the fire pit and help hold heat.
Good news: There’s minimal risk associated with roasting marshmallows over treated lava rock or fire glass. Just make sure everything is clean before you start!
Will a Propane Fire Pit Make Marshmallows Taste Funny?
No. Propane actually imparts less flavor than wood. So if you notice a flavor difference, it’s probably because you’re accustomed to the flavor of a marshmallow cooked over a wood campfire.
Can You Cook Other Food on a Propane Fire Pit?
It’s not recommended. Propane fire pits are not designed or tested as cooking appliances. This means they lack certain features that protect the fire pit from grease and other food debris.
Marshmallows get a pass because they are fairly mess-free. The same can’t be said for things like brats and other campfire favorites.
How to Protect Your Propane Fire Pit When Roasting Marshmallows?
Standard fire safety aside, a dropped marshmallow is pretty much the worst thing that can happen when roasting over a propane fire pit.
A sticky, gooey marshmallow could clog key parts of your fire pit. In a worst-case scenario, this could permanently damage part of the fire pit. Leftover marshmallows could also attract insects and other pests to your deck or patio.
Prevention is the best strategy. But if an accident does happen, a thorough cleaning will ensure your propane fire pit continues working like new.
Avoid a Mess in the First Place
Use sturdy roasting sticks and don’t let the marshmallows get too soft over the fire. Aluminum foil can be used to protect the surface of your fire pit from spills.
Let Things Cool Down
The sooner you take care of the dropped marshmallow, the less chance it will have to enter the fire pit’s interior structure and harden.
With that said, cleaning immediately is rarely possible. You must first let the fire pit cool down to a safe temperature for handling. Don’t rush things — it’s better to wait an extra 30 minutes than to risk a serious burn.
Wipe Off as Much as Possible
Once the fire pit has cooled, wipe away as much of the marshmallow as you can from the exterior. Chances are, the heat from the flame will burn away any remaining marshmallow.
Check to see if the marshmallow has entered the fire pit interior. It’s important to clean the interior to prevent future clogs. However, this may not be possible in some fire pit models.
Stick to a Cleaning Routine
A clean fire pit is a happy fire pit. And if you plan to continue using your propane fire pit to roast marshmallows, cleanliness will ensure that your experience is as safe as possible.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to give up roasted marshmallows and decadent s’mores just because you own a propane fire pit!
Propane is one of the cleanest and more food-safe fuels around. So there’s no need to stress about your fire pit giving off harmful fumes, odors, or flavors.
The only thing you need to worry about is keeping your propane fire pit clean of gooey marshmallows drippings. Not only can these messes be tough to clean. But they can also interfere with the operation of the fire pit and attract pests.
As long as you follow a few simple steps, though, roasting marshmallows on a propane fire pit can be safe, fun, and mess-free!
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