As the leaves start to change and the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm, comforting dish. Fall is the perfect time to break out your favorite recipes, whether it’s a hearty stew or a sweet dessert. In this article, we’ll explore 18 cozy fall recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic pumpkin pie to innovative twists on traditional dishes, our collection of recipes has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, we’ve got you covered. So grab a cup of hot cider and get cooking with these delicious fall recipes!
Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for fall, with the warm spices of pumpkin pie spice and the richness of espresso. Top it with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra-special treat.
Ingredients:
– 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
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/4 cup espresso or strong brewed coffee
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Whipped cream and caramel sauce, for serving
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 butter, eggs, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice. Beat until smooth.
4. Add the espresso or coffee to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and beat until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool before serving with whipped cream and caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Butternut Squash Soup with Sage
This recipe yields a deliciously creamy and savory soup that’s perfect for chilly fall or winter evenings. The sweetness of the butternut squash pairs beautifully with the earthy flavor of sage, making it a delightful and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 teaspoons dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and place it on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the squash for 45 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Scoop the roasted squash flesh into the pot, then add broth, cream, and sage.
6. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes or until soup has reached desired consistency.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Muffins
Start your day with a delicious and wholesome treat that combines the natural sweetness of apples, the warmth of cinnamon, and the heartiness of oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the diced apples and cinnamon to the wet ingredients; mix until well combined.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots
Sweet and savory, these roasted carrots are elevated by a rich maple glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with butter until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the carrot mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
5. While the carrots are roasting, whisk together maple syrup and cinnamon in a small bowl.
6. After the carrots have roasted for 15 minutes, remove them from the oven and brush the maple glaze evenly over the carrots.
7. Return to the oven and continue roasting for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky and the carrots are coated.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
This slow cooker stew is a perfect comfort food dish for a chilly day, packed with tender beef and a variety of root vegetables. Simply brown the beef, add your favorite aromatics and root veggies, then let the slow cooker do the work.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 parsnips, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Transfer to slow cooker.
2. Add olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, parsnips, potatoes, beef broth, and thyme to slow cooker.
3. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Spiced Pear and Walnut Salad
A sweet and savory salad perfect for a light lunch or as a refreshing side dish. The combination of tender pears, crunchy walnuts, and aromatic spices will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the pears, thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. Toss gently to distribute the spices evenly.
3. Add the chopped walnuts and toss again to combine.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
This hearty chili combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of black beans, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the sweet potato and cook until slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the black beans, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are fully cooked.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry Orange Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of orange, perfect for a holiday breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, milk, eggs, cranberries, orange juice, and orange zest. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: A Savory Twist on a Classic Side Dish
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts with the smoky, savory flavor of crispy bacon. The result is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast the sprouts in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the sprouts from the oven and toss with the cooked bacon, chopped parsley (if using), and any additional seasonings you like.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Get ready for a sweet and tangy treat that combines the flavors of caramel, apples, and pie crust in one delicious bar!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2-3 medium apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Press half the dough into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
5. Arrange apple slices on top of crust.
6. Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped pecans (if using).
7. Top with remaining dough, pressing edges to seal.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pumpkin Risotto with Crispy Sage
Experience the warmth of fall with this creamy Pumpkin Risotto topped with crispy sage leaves. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a side to your favorite roasted meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh sage leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add white wine (if using) and stir to combine. Cook until absorbed, about 2 minutes.
5. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next. This process should take about 20-25 minutes, or until rice is creamy and cooked.
6. Stir in pumpkin puree, butter, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with crispy sage leaves (see below).
Crispy Sage:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse sage leaves and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Place leaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: approximately 25-30 minutes
Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
These baked donuts are a delicious twist on traditional fried donuts, with the added bonus of being healthier and easier to make. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared muffin tin.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until donuts are golden brown.
6. While still warm, toss donuts in cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Harvest Stuffed Acorn Squash
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this hearty and delicious squash recipe, perfect for a cozy autumn evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium acorn squashes (about 1 lb each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the squashes in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds and pulp, and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the squashes, then sprinkle with chopped onion and minced garlic.
4. In a bowl, mix cooked wild rice, crumbled blue cheese, and chopped parsley.
5. Divide the rice mixture among the squash halves, spooning it into the cavities.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the squashes are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and thyme in a creamy sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually pour in heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper. Combine cooked pasta and sauce; toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream
Warm up with this rich and spicy hot chocolate, topped with a dollop of whipped cream. Perfect for a chilly winter’s day or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes or until desired temperature is reached.
5. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream (if using).
6. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream (see below).
Whipped Cream:
1. In a bowl, whip 1/2 cup heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
2. Add 1 tablespoon sugar and whip until combined.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Experience the perfect blend of a classic pecan pie and creamy cheesecake in one decadent dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust: Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Make cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar and beat until combined. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Add pecans and corn syrup to the cheesecake mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into prepared crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with the deep flavor of roasted garlic. This recipe combines tender potatoes with the rich, caramelized goodness of roasted garlic for a side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese, chopped scallions, or crumbled bacon for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the garlic cloves on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and fold into a packet.
3. Roast the garlic in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Drain the potatoes and mash with roasted garlic, milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including roasting time)
Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops
Impress your dinner guests with this effortless and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of apples with the richness of pork. This recipe yields tender, fall-apart pork chops smothered in a delicious apple cider braising liquid.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in pork chops
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops until browned on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add apple cider, brown sugar, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork chops to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
As the weather cools down, warm up with these 18 cozy fall recipes perfect for comforting evenings. From sweet treats like Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake and Caramel Apple Pie Bars to savory dishes like Butternut Squash Soup with Sage and Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables, there’s something for everyone. Hearty options like Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili will fill your belly, while treats like Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots and Cranberry Orange Bread will satisfy your sweet tooth. Cozy up and get cooking!
