As the leaves start to change and the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm and comforting meal to get you in the mood for the season. And what better way to do that than with a delicious recipe or two? In this article, we’re sharing 20 cozy October recipes that are sure to become new fall favorites.
From classic pumpkin spice treats to hearty beef stews and savory roasted vegetable medleys, these recipes showcase the best of autumn’s flavors and ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dessert, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So go ahead, cozy up with a cup of hot cider and let’s dive into these 20 delicious October recipes that are sure to make your taste buds do the happy dance.
Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Get ready to cozy up with this scrumptious Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, infused with the warm and comforting flavors of fall. This cake is perfect for any autumn gathering or as a sweet treat to enjoy on your own.
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
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Pumpkin pie spice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, eggs, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and heavy cream.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Butternut Squash Soup with Sage
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful soup, featuring the sweetness of butternut squash and the earthiness of sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 2 teaspoons dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
4. Add roasted squash, broth, and sage to the pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half for added richness.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh sage and crusty bread.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour
Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe is quick to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill or pan-fry the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
5. During the last minute of cooking, brush the apple cider glaze on both sides of the pork chops.
6. Transfer the pork chops to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Transform your mashed potatoes into a rich and aromatic dish by incorporating the deep flavors of roasted garlic. This simple recipe adds a depth of flavor to your classic mashed potatoes that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. While the potatoes cook, place the garlic cloves on a piece of aluminum foil. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Fold the foil into a packet and roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the garlic is soft and mashed.
4. Drain the cooked potatoes and add roasted garlic, milk or cream (if using), salt, and pepper. Mash the mixture with a potato masher or a fork until smooth.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
These gooey, caramel-topped cheesecake bars combine the flavors of crisp apples and creamy cheesecake with a crunchy oat crust. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2-3 medium-sized)
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar; stir in melted butter until combined. Press into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add granulated sugar and beat until combined. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Arrange apple slices on top of cheesecake mixture.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over apples. Sprinkle with pecans, if using.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
This recipe transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a sweet and savory masterpiece, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying the caramelized flavors of maple syrup in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle maple syrup over the sprouts, using your hands or a spatula to coat them evenly.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This classic beef stew recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day, as it requires minimal effort but yields a deliciously tender and flavorful result. Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Add the beef, onion, garlic, potatoes, peas and carrots, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Mix well to combine.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and beef broth until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Spiced Pear Muffins
Perfect for a chilly morning or a comforting afternoon snack, these spiced pear muffins are infused with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg. The tender pears add natural sweetness and a delightful texture to these moist treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
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 melted butter, egg, yogurt, pears, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Pumpkin Pasta
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy pumpkin pasta, perfect for a cozy fall evening. This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted pumpkin with the richness of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or sage for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the pumpkin cubes with olive oil, onion, and garlic for 30 minutes.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted pumpkin, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta and pumpkin sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or sage if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Harvest Stuffed Acorn Squash
This recipe celebrates the flavors of fall by filling roasted acorn squash with a savory mixture of grains, herbs, and spices. The result is a warm, comforting side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any cozy autumn evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized acorn squashes (about 1 lb each)
– 1/2 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix together wild rice, sage, walnuts, and cheddar cheese.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the squash halves and season with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff each squash half with the grain mixture and place on a baking sheet.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and the filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cinnamon Swirl Bread
This classic sweet bread is a staple for any breakfast or brunch gathering. With its gooey cinnamon swirl and soft, fluffy interior, it’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (100°F – 110°F)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, proof yeast by combining warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
4. Add melted butter, yeast mixture, and egg to dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
6. Roll out half of the dough into a rectangle. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, leaving a 1-inch border.
7. Roll up the dough tightly, then place seam-side down in the prepared loaf pan.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To make cinnamon sugar, mix together 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon.
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart
This sweet and savory tart is perfect for a dinner party or a cozy night in. The caramelized onions add a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the nutty, creamy Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Arrange caramelized onions on top of cheese.
6. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Seasonal Twist on a Classic Treat
These soft and chewy cookies combine the warmth of pumpkin with the richness of chocolate, perfect for fall gatherings or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
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 powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree and eggs.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Roasted Root Vegetable Medley
A hearty and flavorful side dish featuring a colorful medley of roasted root vegetables, perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and sliced
– 2 large Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the sweet potatoes, carrot, parsnip, and Brussels sprouts.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Toss to coat.
4. Spread the vegetable medley in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Hot Mulled Apple Cider
This classic autumn drink is a perfect way to cozy up on a chilly fall evening. With the aroma of cinnamon and cloves, this hot mulled apple cider recipe will transport you to a crisp autumn day.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the cider has reached your desired level of spiciness.
4. Remove from heat and strain the spices before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Bacon and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and savory side dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the smokiness of crispy bacon. Perfect for a weekend brunch or as a accompaniment to your favorite protein.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the sweet potato pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Once the sweet potatoes are done, add them to the skillet with the cooked bacon. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce
This recipe combines the creamy richness of brie cheese with the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce, perfect for a cozy evening or holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the brie wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cranberry sauce and honey until well combined.
4. Spoon the cranberry-honey mixture over the brie cheese, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle thyme leaves evenly over the top of the cheese.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly puffed.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast
Elevate your holiday meal with this flavorful herb-roasted turkey breast recipe. Perfect for a small gathering or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the turkey breast and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the herb mixture evenly over the turkey breast, making sure to coat all surfaces.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chai-Spiced Oatmeal
Start your day off right with a comforting bowl of chai-spiced oatmeal, infused with the warm and aromatic flavors of traditional Indian chai. This recipe combines hearty oats with the perfect blend of spices to create a deliciously cozy breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
3. Stir in the cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. If desired, add honey or sugar to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Bowl
Get ready for a fall twist on a classic smoothie bowl! This creamy and delicious Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Bowl is perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack, and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Toppings: granola, whipped cream, chopped nuts, and dried cranberries
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine pumpkin puree, banana, Greek yogurt, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding ice cubes if desired to achieve the perfect thickness.
3. Pour into a bowl and top with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this October with these delicious fall recipes! From classic comfort foods to sweet treats, we’ve got you covered. Indulge in Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake and Butternut Squash Soup with Sage for a taste of autumn. Savor slow-cooked Beef Stew or hearty Roasted Root Vegetable Medley. Treat yourself to Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars or Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. And don’t forget the savory Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Smoky Bacon and Sweet Potato Hash. Whether you’re craving something warm and comforting or a sweet fall treat, we’ve got 20 recipes to make your October cozy and delicious!
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