As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, it’s time to get cozy with friends and family. What better way to do so than with a spread of delicious fall-inspired appetizers? From savory to sweet, these 20 recipes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their cravings.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, tailgating, or just looking for a fun way to enjoy the season, these cozy fall appetizer recipes have got you covered. With flavors like pumpkin, butternut squash, and apple cider, you’ll be transported to a warm and welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for any autumn gathering.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most mouthwatering fall appetizers that are sure to become new favorites. From classic combinations like sage and sausage to unexpected pairings like pear and blue cheese, there’s something for everyone. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to cozy up with these 20 delicious fall appetizer recipes!
Pumpkin and Sage Stuffed Mushrooms
Transform ordinary mushrooms into a fall-inspired delight with this easy recipe. The combination of roasted pumpkin, savory sage, and gooey cheese will elevate your dinner party to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 small pumpkin (about 1 lb), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic, and salt. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Clean the mushroom caps and remove stems. Fill each cap with a spoonful of roasted pumpkin, a sprinkle of sage, and a pinch of cheese.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets
Elevate your appetizer game with these sweet and savory tartlets, perfect for a dinner party or a cozy night in. The caramelized onions and creamy goat cheese are a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, cook the onion slices over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches (7.5 cm) per side.
4. Place a spoonful of caramelized onions in the center of each square. Top with crumbled goat cheese and fold the pastry over to form a triangle or a square shape.
5. Brush the edges with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Butternut Squash and Bacon Crostini
This recipe brings together the warmth of roasted butternut squash and the smokiness of crispy bacon, perfectly balanced on a crunchy baguette slice. A simple yet impressive appetizer or snack for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch rounds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash in a foil-lined baking dish for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
4. Combine roasted squash and brown sugar in a bowl. Mash with a fork until smooth.
5. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast until lightly browned.
6. Top each crostini with a spoonful of squash mixture, a few pieces of bacon, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Spiced Apple and Brie Phyllo Cups
Elevate your appetizer game with these crispy, flavorful cups filled with sweet spiced apples and creamy brie cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup brie cheese, crumbled
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together diced apple, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Layer phyllo dough in a baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
5. Spoon apple mixture onto one corner of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
6. Top with crumbled brie cheese.
7. Fold phyllo corners over filling to form a triangle or cup shape.
8. Brush tops with remaining butter and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry and Baked Brie Bites
These sweet and savory bites are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a quick appetizer any time of the year. A combination of creamy brie cheese, tart cranberries, and flaky puff pastry will become your new favorite party treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 wheel (8 oz) brie cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
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.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cranberry sauce and honey. Spread evenly over one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
4. Place brie cheese on top of cranberry mixture.
5. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape. Press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and sprinkle with thyme.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Rosemary White Bean Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, aromatic dip that combines the richness of roasted garlic and rosemary with the comfort of white beans. Perfect for veggie sticks, crackers, or pita chips!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, leaves only
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place garlic cloves on a piece of foil, drizzle with olive oil, and fold into a packet.
3. Roast garlic for 30-40 minutes or until tender and mashed-like.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted garlic, rosemary leaves, cannellini beans, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides as needed.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired. If using Parmesan cheese, stir in just before serving.
7. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting garlic) + 5-10 minutes (blending)
Sweet Potato and Chorizo Skewers
A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional skewers, these sweet potato and chorizo skewers are perfect for a quick and easy dinner or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4-6 chorizo sausages, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Thread sweet potato cubes, chorizo slices, and any remaining sweet potato onto skewers.
4. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until sweet potatoes are tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Glazed Sausage Balls
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized Maple Glazed Sausage Balls, perfect for game day gatherings or quick weeknight bites. A sweet and savory combination that will satisfy any crowd!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sausage (any variety), crumbled
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine sausage, panko breadcrumbs, maple syrup, egg, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
4. Place sausage balls on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.
5. Spray with cooking spray or brush with oil. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Parmesan and Thyme Shortbread Crackers
Elevate your snack game with these buttery shortbread crackers infused with the earthy flavor of thyme and the nutty taste of Parmesan. Perfect for accompanying soups, salads, or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and thyme.
5. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together.
6. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, circles).
7. Place crackers on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Autumn Harvest Bruschetta
Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this simple yet delicious bruschetta recipe, featuring roasted butternut squash, crispy apples, and tangy blue cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices (Italian or French)
– 1 medium-sized butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as gorgonzola or Roquefort)
– 1 crisp apple, diced
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices until crispy.
5. Spread roasted squash on toasted bread, followed by crumbled blue cheese and diced apple.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pumpkin Hummus with Pita Chips
Transform ordinary hummus into a seasonal treat by incorporating roasted pumpkin puree and serving it with crispy pita chips. This sweet and savory combination is perfect for snacking or as a dip for your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup pita chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine pumpkin puree, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend until smooth, adding olive oil as needed.
4. Serve with pita chips and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pear and Gorgonzola Flatbread
Pear and Gorgonzola Flatbread Recipe
Elevate your flatbread game with this sweet and savory combination of caramelized pears, creamy gorgonzola cheese, and fresh thyme. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a sophisticated gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made pizza dough (or homemade)
– 2 ripe pears, sliced
– 1/4 cup gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. In a small bowl, mix together honey, olive oil, and chopped thyme. Brush the mixture evenly onto the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Top the dough with sliced pears and crumbled gorgonzola cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Acorn Squash and Sage Arancini
This recipe combines the warmth of roasted acorn squash with the earthy flavor of sage, wrapped in crispy arancini. Perfect for a fall or winter gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium acorn squash
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– All-purpose flour for dusting
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Mix cooked rice with vegetable broth, Parmesan cheese, and sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each arancini with roasted squash, then coat in flour and fry in hot oil for 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including roasting time)
Spiced Pecans with Brown Sugar Glaze
A sweet and spicy snack perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Add pecan halves to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
4. Spread pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until pecans are caramelized and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
7. In a small saucepan, combine corn syrup and water (as needed) to create a glaze. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
8. Toss warm pecans with the brown sugar glaze until coated.
9. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Mushroom and Gruyère Puff Pastry Bites
Wild Mushroom and Gruyère Puff Pastry Bites: Elevate your appetizer game with these savory, buttery bites packed with the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms and creamy Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), cleaned and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
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. Cut into small squares, approximately 3 inches per side.
3. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms and butter until mushrooms are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place a spoonful of mushroom mixture onto one half of each pastry square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry square over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp edges.
6. Place bites on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each bite. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) for golden color.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until pastry is golden brown and puffed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Cider and Cheddar Fondue
Elevate your gatherings with a sweet and savory fusion of apple cider and cheddar fondue, perfect for snacking or sharing. This recipe combines the comfort of melted cheese with the tanginess of apple cider.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work well)
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Assorted dippers, such as:
+ Apple slices
+ Breadsticks
+ Pretzels
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cheddar cheese, apple cider, and butter. Place over medium heat.
2. Stir until the cheese is melted and smooth, about 5 minutes.
3. Add paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the fondue to a serving bowl or ceramic crock. Keep warm by placing the saucepan in a larger pot of hot water.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Beet and Walnut Crostini
Roasted Beet and Walnut Crostini: A flavorful and visually stunning appetizer that combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the richness of walnuts and a hint of goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Brush baguette slices with the olive oil mixture.
6. Top each crostini with a beet wedge, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped walnuts.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes (roasting beets) + 10-15 minutes (assembling crostini)
Fig and Prosciutto Pinwheels
Elevate your snack or lunch game with these sweet and savory pinwheels, featuring caramelized figs and crispy prosciutto. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a unique addition to your next party.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup caramelized figs (homemade or store-bought)
– 6 slices of prosciutto
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
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. Spread the caramelized figs over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
3. Arrange the prosciutto slices on top of the figs in a single layer.
4. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a pinwheel shape. Brush with honey and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Seed and Parmesan Crisps
Elevate your snacking game with these crispy, flavorful treats that combine the nutty goodness of pumpkin seeds with the salty richness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together pumpkin seeds and Parmesan cheese.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the seed mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle salt and garlic powder (if using) over the mixture and toss again to combine.
5. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Pear and Blue Cheese Tartlets
These bite-sized tartlets combine the natural sweetness of caramelized pears with the tanginess of blue cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch thick wedges
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 12 equal squares.
3. In a small skillet, caramelize pears over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until tender.
4. Spoon a slice of caramelized pear onto each pastry square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Top with blue cheese and sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Fold pastry squares into triangles and press edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these delicious fall appetizer recipes! From savory bites like Pumpkin and Sage Stuffed Mushrooms and Butternut Squash and Bacon Crostini, to sweet treats like Caramelized Pear and Blue Cheese Tartlets and Spiced Pecans with Brown Sugar Glaze, there’s something for everyone. These 20 recipes are perfect for entertaining friends and family this fall season. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or an impressive spread, these easy-to-make dishes are sure to please even the pickiest palates.
