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Fall is officially in the air — which means cozy meals, crisp flavors, and baking sheets full of sweet seasonal magic. From apple orchards to pumpkin patches, this is the time of year to celebrate all the comforting flavors that make autumn so irresistible.

Whether you’re team apple or pumpkin (or both!), we’ve gathered a list of must-try fall recipes that deserve a spot on your table — and maybe even in your holiday traditions.

Apple Season Favorites

Nothing says fall quite like the sweet, tart crunch of fresh apples. Whether you’re picking them straight from the orchard or grabbing a bag at the store, apples shine in both sweet and savory recipes.

Caramel Apple Cresent Rolls

These Caramel Apple Crescent Rolls are the ultimate quick-fix dessert for cozy nights or fall gatherings. With tender crescent dough wrapped around warm apple pie filling, topped with cinnamon sugar and gooey caramel, they’re deliciously simple and best served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Phyllo Crusted Sweet Potato, Apple & Beet Tart

Layers of flaky phyllo dough, tender sweet potatoes, thinly sliced apples, and roasted beets come together in this show-stopping tart. It’s sweet, earthy, and perfect for a cozy fall brunch or a vibrant Thanksgiving side.

Caramel Apple Biscuit Bread Pudding

Think warm cinnamon apples, rich caramel, and buttery biscuits all baked into a golden, gooey bread pudding. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got an instant fall favorite.

Upside Down Apple Turnovers

These easy turnovers flip the script — literally. Caramelized apples get baked underneath layers of puff pastry, so when you turn them over, you reveal a golden, sticky, delicious masterpiece. Serve warm with whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Apple Tips to Know This Season:

  • Best Apples for Baking: Try Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Pink Lady for recipes. They hold their shape and offer that ideal sweet-tart flavor.
  • Prevent Browning Naturally: Toss sliced apples in lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar to keep them fresh-looking longer.
  • Core Without the Mess: Use a melon baller to scoop out the apple core without slicing all the way through. Perfect for stuffed baked apples!

Pumpkin Is Trending (and We’re Loving It)

Halloween may fall on October 31st, but pumpkin flavor shows up all month long — and we’re here for it. From cozy pastas to creamy desserts, pumpkin makes everything feel festive.

Pumpkin Caramel Pudding

Smooth, spiced, and rich with fall flavor, this pumpkin pudding is swirled with caramel for a dessert that feels elegant but is super easy to make. It’s perfect for your Halloween party or a quiet night in.

Spaghetti with Meatballs and Pumpkin Vodka Sauce

Pumpkin… in pasta sauce? Trust us — it works. The creamy pumpkin balances out the vodka sauce, giving your classic spaghetti and meatballs an unexpected (and delicious) fall twist.

Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta

This one’s a comfort food dream. A velvety alfredo sauce gets a seasonal upgrade with pure pumpkin puree, garlic, and parmesan. Serve it with roasted veggies or grilled chicken for the ultimate fall dinner.

Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls

Cozy up with the warm flavors of fall with these irresistible Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls! Perfect for a weekend treat or holiday brunch, they’re soft, gooey, and packed with sweetness.

Pumpkin Tips for Fall Cooking:

  • Use Pure Pumpkin Purée: Make sure to grab 100% pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugar and spices.
  • Freeze What You Don’t Use: Pumpkin purée freezes well! Store in airtight containers or ice cube trays for easy use later in soups, sauces, and smoothies.
  • Savory Pumpkin Magic: Pumpkin isn’t just for sweets — add it to chili, mac and cheese, or curry for creamy texture and depth of flavor.

Bring the Flavors of Fall to Your Table

Whether you’re planning a fall gathering, a spooky Halloween party, or just cozy nights at home, these apple and pumpkin recipes are the perfect way to celebrate the season. Happy fall and happy cooking!