As the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s nothing quite like warming up with a deliciously cozy dessert. The flavors of fall – think pumpkin, apple, and maple – are the perfect excuse to get baking and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to something sweet and satisfying. In this article, we’re sharing 18 delightful fall dessert recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From classic combinations like caramel apple crisp and pumpkin spice cheesecake bars, to creative twists like maple glazed pumpkin donuts and spiced pear tart, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab a cup of hot cider, get cozy by the fire, and let’s dive into the world of fall desserts!
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars
These Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars are a seasonal twist on the classic cheesecake, with a graham cracker crust and a creamy pumpkin-infused filling. Perfect for a fall gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
5. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this comforting bread pudding recipe, infused with the flavors of tender apples and warm cinnamon. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, heavy cream, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add bread cubes and stir until evenly coated.
4. Fold in diced apples and melted butter.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Pecan Cookies
A sweet and nutty treat perfect for snacking or gift-giving, these Maple Pecan Cookies combine the rich flavors of pure maple syrup and toasted pecans with a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add maple syrup and mix well.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined. Fold in pecans.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Caramel Apple Crisp
Elevate your fall baking with this sweet and crunchy Caramel Apple Crisp recipe! With a tender apple filling and a crispy oat topping, this dessert is perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Top apple filling with oat mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Potato Pie Bites
These bite-sized sweet potato pies are the perfect dessert or snack to satisfy your cravings. With a graham cracker crust and a creamy sweet potato filling, these mini treats are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Graham cracker crumbs (about 1/2 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine mashed sweet potato, sugar, flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in melted butter, beaten egg, and heavy cream until well combined.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the sweet potato mixture into each mini muffin cup lined with graham cracker crumbs.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Spiced Pear Tart
Warm up with a sweet and spicy dessert featuring caramelized pears and a buttery crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix together sugar, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Add sliced pears and toss until coated.
4. Arrange pear slices over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold edges of pastry up over the pears, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush melted butter over the pastry crust.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until pastry is golden brown and pears are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the warmth of pumpkin with the richness of chocolate, perfect for a cozy fall morning or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Caramel Pumpkin Dip with Cinnamon Sugar Chips
This autumnal treat combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the richness of caramel and crunchy cinnamon sugar chips. Perfect for a fall gathering or as a sweet snack to cozy up with.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon caramel sauce
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Cinnamon sugar chips (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, pumpkin puree, caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until set.
4. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar chips.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Cider Donut Holes
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a chilly fall or winter morning. Made with apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg, they’re infused with the cozy flavors of the season.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons apple cider
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop the dough into hot oil (350°F) in batches.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, then remove with a slotted spoon.
6. Place the donut holes on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Pecan Pie Brownies
Elevate your brownie game with the rich flavors of pecan pie. This unique recipe combines the fudgy goodness of brownies with the nutty, caramel-like notes of pecans and a hint of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat; stir in cocoa powder until smooth. Let cool slightly.
4. Whisk in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add to the saucepan mixture and stir until combined.
6. Stir in chopped pecans and maple syrup.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts
These tender donuts are infused with the warm spices of pumpkin and topped with a sticky maple glaze, perfect for fall festivities or a cozy breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– Maple glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Add pumpkin puree and mix until smooth.
4. Pipe donuts into rings and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Drain donuts on paper towels.
6. Mix maple glaze ingredients (see below) and drizzle over warm donuts.
Maple Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including frying time)
Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Get ready to cozy up with this moist and flavorful apple spice cake topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups diced apples (about 2-3 medium-sized)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In another bowl, combine butter, sugar, eggs, apples, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cakes cool before frosting with cream cheese frosting (see below).
Cream Cheese Frosting:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats
These soft, chewy treats are infused with the warm spices of pumpkin pie and perfect for a Halloween party or fall gathering. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these deliciously seasonal snacks.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 12 tablespoons marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Green and orange sprinkles or candy eyes for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
2. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add Rice Krispies cereal to the pot and stir until well coated.
5. Press mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Let cool for 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
7. Decorate with sprinkles or candy eyes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
Elevate your apple pie game with this unique recipe that combines the warmth of cinnamon rolls with the comfort of a classic pie. This sweet and satisfying dessert is perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Arrange apple mixture in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Roll up pastry, starting from one long side. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
6. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Brush tops with heavy cream and sprinkle with brown sugar.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramel Apple Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the warmth of caramel with the crunch of fresh apple, perfect for a seasonal dessert or snack. With a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, these treats will transport you to a crisp autumn day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced fresh apple (Granny Smith or other variety)
– Caramel sauce for drizzling (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with vanilla extract.
5. Fold in diced apple.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pumpkin Pie Truffles
These bite-sized treats combine the warmth of pumpkin pie with the indulgence of chocolate truffles, perfect for a seasonal dessert or gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Stir in the pumpkin puree.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
5. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Roll the chilled cream mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Dip each ball into the melted white chocolate, then roll in crushed nuts or confectioners’ sugar for garnish.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Spiced Apple Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of spices, perfect for a cozy autumn or winter morning.
Ingredients:
– 2 large apples, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom.
3. In another bowl, combine chopped apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until apples are well coated.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Maple Walnut Blondies
These chewy blondies are infused with the warmth of maple syrup and the crunch of walnuts, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add maple syrup and eggs; beat until smooth.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and chopped walnuts.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these delightful fall dessert recipes! From classic pumpkin spice cheesecake bars to sweet potato pie bites, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in warm apple cinnamon bread pudding or maple pecan cookies, perfect for crisp autumn nights. Try caramel apple crisp or spiced pear tart for a touch of sophistication. And don’t forget the kids – they’ll love pumpkin chocolate chip muffins and caramel pumpkin dip with cinnamon sugar chips. These 18 easy fall dessert recipes are sure to delight and satisfy your sweet tooth.
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