As the leaves start to change colors and the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s nothing like a warm and comforting dessert to cap off a chilly fall evening. This season, we’re trading in our shorts for scarves and embracing all things cozy and delicious. From classic apple crisps to creative twists on pumpkin pie, these 18 easy fall dessert recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and become instant favorites.
Whether you’re hosting a harvest-themed party or simply looking for a treat to enjoy with family and friends, these desserts offer the perfect blend of flavors and textures to make any occasion feel extra special. And the best part? Each recipe is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort – leaving you more time to enjoy the fruits of your labor (literally!).
Easy Apple Crisp with Cinnamon Streusel
A classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, this easy apple crisp recipe combines tender apples with a crunchy cinnamon streusel topping. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted 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. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
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. Spread streusel topping evenly over the apple mixture.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats
Elevate your snack game with these delicious and seasonal Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats. Perfect for fall gatherings, parties, or just a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 2 cups marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Yellow food coloring (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Quickly add Rice Krispies cereal and stir until well combined.
5. Press mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Let cool and harden for at least 30 minutes before cutting.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes (including cooling time)
Slow Cooker Caramel Apple Dump Cake
This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a delicious dessert to serve at your next gathering. With only 10 ingredients and no fuss, this slow cooker dump cake is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of apple pie filling
– 1 bag of caramel candies (14 oz)
– 1 package of yellow cake mix
– 1 cup of milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the apple pie filling and caramel candies to a slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the cake mix, milk, eggs, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour the batter over the apple mixture in the slow cooker.
4. Top with melted butter and chopped walnuts (if using).
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
3-Ingredient Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
These soft-baked treats combine the warmth of pumpkin with the richness of chocolate chips, all in just three ingredients!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 1/2 cups peanut butter cookie dough (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Scoop the peanut butter cookie dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
3. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
4. Remove from oven and immediately press a few chocolate chips onto each warm cookie.
5. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Maple Glazed Pecan Blondies
These rich and gooey blondies are elevated by the addition of maple glaze and crunchy pecans. Perfect for a sweet treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Maple glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in pecans.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Maple Glaze:
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Combine glaze ingredients in a small bowl and microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until smooth. Drizzle over warm blondies.
No-Bake Chai Spiced Cheesecake Bars
A creamy and aromatic treat that combines the warmth of chai spices with the richness of cheesecake, all without ever needing to turn on your oven!
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 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 cup strong brewed chai tea
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in the melted butter until well combined. Press into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan.
2. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until combined.
3. Add the cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined.
4. Stir in the brewed chai tea and heavy cream.
5. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None! This no-bake recipe is ready when chilled.
Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Ready to satisfy your sweet tooth? These baked donut holes are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and coated in a crunchy sugar topping. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack, these bite-sized treats are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in cinnamon.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each donut hole.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
9. While still warm, toss donut holes in cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick Sweet Potato Pie Mug Cake
This mini cake combines the comfort of sweet potato pie with the convenience of a mug cake. It’s a perfect treat for a quick dessert fix or a special indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tablespoon milk
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Whipped cream or chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine egg, mashed sweet potato, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Add flour and milk to the mug. Mix until just combined.
3. Pour in melted butter and mix until the batter is smooth.
4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until cake is cooked through.
5. Remove from microwave and top with whipped cream or chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Caramel Stuffed Baked Apples
A sweet and comforting dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with a rich caramel filling.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baking apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the apples and scoop out the cores, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a small saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until caramel turns golden brown.
4. Stuff each apple with the warm caramel mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
5. Place the stuffed apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
One-Bowl Chocolate Pumpkin Brownies
Rich, fudgy brownies infused with the warm spices of pumpkin pie and a hint of chocolate – a perfect fall treat!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, pumpkin puree, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the butter, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract; stir until smooth.
4. Beat in the egg until well combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted 2 inches from the edge comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Pear and Ginger Crumble
This sweet and tangy crumble is a perfect dessert for a chilly evening. With the warmth of ginger and the sweetness of pears, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine pears, ginger, and granulated sugar. Toss until pears are evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
4. Pour pear mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish. Top with oat mixture.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until topping is golden brown and pears are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
5-Minute Microwave Apple Cobbler
5-Minute Microwave Apple Cobbler Recipe
Warm up with a delicious and easy-to-make apple cobbler, perfect for a quick dessert or snack. This recipe is designed to be prepared and cooked in just 5 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
Ingredients:
- 1 large Granny Smith apple, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 biscuit or cobbler topping (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
- Mix together the sliced apple, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt in a microwave-safe 8-inch glass bowl.
- Pour in the melted butter and mix until the apples are evenly coated.
- Place the biscuit or cobbler topping over the apple mixture, making sure to cover the entire surface.
- Cook on high for 5 minutes. Let it stand for 1 minute before serving warm.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Enjoy your scrumptious and quick microwave apple cobbler!
Buttery Maple Walnut Fudge
Sweet and indulgent, Buttery Maple Walnut Fudge is a treat that combines the richness of butter and maple syrup with the crunch of walnuts. This easy-to-make recipe yields a batch of creamy fudge perfect for gift-giving or satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and melted butter. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C).
3. Remove from heat and stir in maple syrup, vanilla extract, and walnuts. Let cool slightly.
4. Pour into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Allow to set at room temperature for at least 2 hours or refrigerate for 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Bread Pudding
Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Bread Pudding is a twist on the classic bread pudding recipe, infused with the comforting flavors of hot chocolate. This indulgent dessert is perfect for cold winter nights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf stale Challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon instant hot chocolate mix
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine bread cubes, milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, hot chocolate mix, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt.
2. Stir until bread is evenly coated with the mixture.
3. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
4. Sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Fluffy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these scrumptious treats! This recipe combines the warmth of pumpkin, richness of chocolate chips, and a hint of spice to create an unforgettable muffin experience.
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
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 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, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the 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 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Easy Cranberry White Chocolate Blondies
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and tangy blondies featuring cranberries and white chocolate. Perfect for a quick treat or dessert, they’re easy to make and sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Stir in egg, vanilla extract, white chocolate chips, cranberries, and salt.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Spiced Fig Compote with Yogurt
This sweet and tangy compote is perfect as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or even as a side dish. The Instant Pot makes it easy to cook the figs until tender and blend them into a smooth, syrupy consistency.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or dried figs
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the figs, water, honey, cinnamon stick (if using), ginger, and cardamom to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a quick release.
4. Let the compote cool slightly, then blend until smooth.
5. Stir in the yogurt and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 6 minutes (plus cooling time)
No-Churn Salted Caramel Ice Cream
Elevate your ice cream game with this creamy, rich, and indulgent no-churn recipe that combines the perfect balance of sweet and salty. This easy-to-make treat is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Pinch of flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the milk mixture until fully incorporated.
4. Add the softened butter and salted caramel sauce; mix until smooth.
5. Pour the mixture into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
6. Just before serving, sprinkle with flaky sea salt to balance out the sweetness.
Cooking Time: None! No-churn ice cream means no need to worry about cooking times.
Summary
Get cozy this fall with these easy and delicious dessert recipes! From classic apple crisp to creative pumpkin treats, there’s something for everyone. Try making a slow cooker caramel apple dump cake or a batch of 3-ingredient pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. For a sweet treat on-the-go, whip up some quick sweet potato pie mug cakes or baked cinnamon sugar donut holes. And for a special occasion, make a show-stopping no-bake chai spiced cheesecake bar or slow cooker hot chocolate bread pudding. Whatever your craving, these 18 cozy fall desserts are sure to satisfy!
