Food Wars: Backpacker's Pantry Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Mix Review


Is it worth it to purchase pre-made desserts for backpacking?

As with any purchasing decision, individual opinions will vary. It certainly can be, as a special treat can be motivation, or a morale booster, to offset a particularly tough day on the trails. If a Snickers or dried fruit just isn't going to get it done for you, there are other options that may be more satisfying.

What is Backpacker's Pantry?

Backpacker's Pantry is a subsidiary of American Outdoor Products (AOP). Doing business as DriLite foods, since 1951, the company adopted the Backpacker's Pantry brand name by the late 1970s. Originally headquartered in California, the company now operates out of Boulder, Colorado and supports causes related to renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and conservation. 


Image from: Backpackerspantry.com

Is Backpacker's Pantry Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Mix a worthwhile choice for a backpacking trip?

If it fits into your budget, we think it's worth splurging for... in moderation, of course. While the price tag is a little steep ($5.99 for a "2-serving" pouch, via Backpackerspantry.com), the flavor did not disappoint. It was like a delicious chocolate pudding, with the hint of tang one would expect from cheesecake. Backpacker's Pantry tends to include little "extras" that make its offerings unique. In this case, some cookie crumbs to sprinkle over the top of the pudding mixture provided some contrast in texture and additional flavor.

A pouch weighs 4.5 ounces (128 grams). It provides 600 calories and 13 grams of protein. It requires 2/3 cup (160mL) of cold water and takes 11 minutes and 30 seconds to prepare, according to the instructions on the package. We had no complaints, as to the consistency of the reconstituted product. A pouch also satisfies 15-20% of the Recommended Daily Allowance for iron, potassium, and calcium. Not the worst way to get some nutrition!

Image from: Backpackerspantry.com

We hope the "Food Wars" series gives you easy-to-digest (see what we did there?) information to make informed meal planning decisions for your next backpacking trip. Let us know, in the comments section, if there is additional information you would like to see included in our reviews!  

 

Get Backpacker's Pantry Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Mix through Amazon!

 

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