Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp Review

What Makes Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp Stand Out?

The Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp isn’t your grandpa’s trail mix, nor is it some freeze-dried astronaut food. This single-serving dessert from Katadyn aims to deliver a comforting, familiar flavor to the backcountry, combining brown sugar sauce, apples, raisins, and a vanilla almond granola topping. Its claim to fame? It offers a touch of sweetness and warmth when you’re miles from civilization, something often overlooked in survival and tactical scenarios.

I was looking for a lightweight, morale-boosting food option for my multi-day solo hiking trips. Tired of bland energy bars and sodium-laden freeze-dried meals, I sought a dessert that could satisfy my sweet tooth without adding significant weight or preparation time. The promise of cinnamon and apples in a backcountry setting was too enticing to resist.

Upon receiving the Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp, I was immediately struck by its compact packaging. The clam pack felt sturdy enough to withstand being jostled around in my pack. It also seemed surprisingly light for what it promised: a full-fledged dessert.

Compared to similar backpacking desserts like Backpacker’s Pantry Apple Pie or Mountain House Apple Crisp, the Katadyn offering stood out due to its smaller serving size and focus on a more “natural” ingredient profile. I chose Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp primarily for its packability and the assurance of quality from a trusted brand known for water filtration.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. While the packaging looked appealing, I remained skeptical about the actual taste and texture after rehydration. Only a true backcountry test would reveal if this dessert could live up to its promise.


Real-World Testing: Putting Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp to the Test

First Use Experience

My first encounter with the Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp took place during a three-day solo hike in the Appalachian Mountains. After a long day of navigating challenging terrain and setting up camp, I decided to treat myself. The location was a small clearing near a stream at about 3,000ft in elevation.

The preparation process was straightforward. Boiling water with my Jetboil, I followed the instructions by adding hot water up to the “Easy Fill” line indicated inside the clam pack. I then waited the recommended 10-12 minutes.

The aroma that wafted from the pouch was surprisingly authentic, reminiscent of freshly baked apple pie. However, the initial taste test revealed a slightly artificial sweetness, though the texture was generally acceptable. The apples were soft, and the granola provided a pleasant crunch.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of incorporating the Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp into various outdoor excursions, including camping trips and day hikes, I observed how it held up. It consistently delivered a satisfying burst of flavor and a comforting warmth.

The packaging remained durable throughout multiple trips, showing no signs of leakage or damage, even when subjected to rough handling within my pack. Cleaning was non-existent because the meal was consumed directly from the clam pack; therefore there was no additional dish to wash.

Compared to other backpacking desserts I’ve tried, the Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp offers a good balance of taste, convenience, and packability. While not as gourmet as some options, it serves its purpose effectively as a quick and easy morale booster on the trail. It has become my go-to easy dessert option.

Breaking Down the Features of Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp

Specifications

The Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp comes in a clam pack/plastic container. The package contains one serving weighing 4 oz. The dessert is categorized as a dessert-type food. Prep time requires 10-12 minutes of rehydration with hot water. It is a one-size product.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the dessert’s convenience and suitability for backpacking and tactical scenarios. The lightweight and compact packaging minimizes the load carried. The minimal prep time allows for a quick energy boost in demanding situations.

Performance & Functionality

The Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp performs its primary function admirably: providing a sweet, warm, and comforting dessert option in the outdoors. Its taste is generally pleasing, and the combination of textures (soft apples and crunchy granola) enhances the overall experience.

A significant strength is its ease of preparation. Just add hot water and wait. A weakness lies in its sweetness, which some may find overly artificial. It largely meets expectations, although purists might prefer a more natural flavor profile.

Design & Ergonomics

The clam pack design is functional and durable, providing adequate protection for the contents during transport. The 4oz weight is negligible, making it an ideal choice for weight-conscious backpackers. The one size is good, since this is intended as a single serving.

The design is user-friendly with the “Easy Fill” line simplifying the rehydration process, and the lack of mess after consumption is a huge plus. There is virtually no learning curve, since preparation is exceptionally straightforward.

Durability & Maintenance

The shelf life of the Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp is substantial, ensuring it remains viable for extended periods. The packaging is resilient and resistant to tears or punctures, crucial for preventing spills in the field.

Maintenance is non-existent, as the product requires no cleaning or special handling. This adds to its appeal in situations where water and time are limited.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp does not come with any additional accessories, since it’s a self-contained food item. Customization options are limited, although one could experiment with adding spices or dried fruit to enhance the flavor.

Given its nature as a ready-to-eat dessert, compatibility with accessories is not applicable. Its simplicity is one of its main advantages.

Pros and Cons of Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp

Pros

  • Lightweight and Packable: At just 4 oz, it adds minimal weight to your pack, making it ideal for long-distance treks.
  • Easy to Prepare: Requires only hot water and 10-12 minutes of wait time, perfect for quick energy boosts.
  • Comforting Flavor: The cinnamon apple crisp taste provides a welcome morale boost in challenging environments.
  • Durable Packaging: The clam pack design protects the contents from damage and prevents leaks.
  • No Cleanup Required: Eat directly from the pouch, eliminating the need for washing dishes.

Cons

  • Artificial Sweetness: The taste may be overly sweet for those preferring natural flavors.
  • Single Serving Only: Not suitable for sharing unless multiple packages are carried.


Who Should Buy Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp?

The Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp is perfect for solo hikers, backpackers, and campers seeking a lightweight, easy-to-prepare dessert option to boost morale on the trail. It is also suitable for survivalists and preppers looking for a convenient and long-lasting food item to include in their emergency kits.

Those who are highly sensitive to artificial sweeteners or prefer completely natural foods might want to skip this product. Also, families or groups needing to serve multiple people may find the single-serving size impractical.

A must-have is a reliable source of hot water, such as a portable stove or fire-starting kit. Carrying a long-handled spoon or spork is also recommended for easy consumption from the pouch.

Conclusion on Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp

Overall, the Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp is a solid choice for anyone looking to add a touch of sweetness and comfort to their outdoor adventures. While its flavor might not appeal to everyone, its convenience, lightweight design, and durable packaging make it a worthwhile addition to any pack.

At $6.95, the price is reasonable for the convenience and morale boost it provides, justifying the cost for those prioritizing lightweight and easy-to-prepare options. I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking a quick and satisfying dessert for solo trips or emergency preparedness.

So, next time you’re packing for a backcountry adventure, consider tossing in a Katadyn Cinnamon Apple Crisp. It might just be the sweet reward you need after a long day on the trail.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top