Fresh blueberry muffin cake in a Dutch Oven

Large cast iron Dutch Ovens were used on most overnight commercial trips, and guides learned how to make outstanding baked goods, to the delight of passengers. Muffin cakes like this one, shortcake for berries and whipped cream, even pineapple upside down cake were all possible, along with other baking. The trick was always to mix the batter a bit dry and then to very carefully place charcoal briquets in key places on the bottom and top of the oven – but results were great!