As the leaves begin to change and the crisp autumn air sets in, it’s time to gather with friends and family to celebrate the season. And what better way to do so than with a warm and cozy fall party? To make your gathering truly unforgettable, we’ve put together 18 delicious recipe ideas that are sure to impress. From sweet treats like Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars and Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes, to savory delights like Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots and Spiced Pumpkin Hummus, there’s something for everyone on this list.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these mouthwatering recipes, sharing tips and tricks for making them a reality at your next fall party. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a grand bash, these dishes are sure to be a hit with your guests.
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars
Warm up to the flavors of fall with these rich and creamy Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars. A graham cracker crust, a velvety pumpkin cheesecake filling, and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top make for a perfect dessert.
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
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the crust: Mix crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until combined. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Prepare the cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Beat until combined.
4. Pour batter over crust and bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set.
5. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots
Elevate your side dish game with this sweet and savory maple glazed roasted carrots recipe. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons pure Canadian maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and cumin until evenly coated.
3. Spread carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and drizzle with maple syrup.
6. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Apple Cider Sangria
As the leaves turn golden, warm up with this refreshing twist on traditional sangria. Apple cider and autumn spices meld together to create a cozy and inviting drink perfect for crisp fall evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of apple cider (4 cups)
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup brandy or bourbon (optional)
– Sliced apples, cinnamon sticks, and cloves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine apple cider, red wine, sugar, and orange juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, add brandy or bourbon if using (optional).
4. Slice apples into thin wedges and add them to the pitcher along with cinnamon sticks and cloves.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Butternut Squash Soup Shooters
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy butternut squash soup shooters, perfect for a chilly day or as a starter for your holiday feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh herbs, such as parsley or sage, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash with butter, salt and pepper on a baking sheet; roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add roasted squash, chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Purée soup with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Ladle into shot glasses (about 1/2 cup each) and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Caramel Apple Nachos
Caramel Apple Nachos: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic Favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips (your choice of flavor)
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced into thin wedges
– 1/4 cup of caramel sauce
– 1/4 cup of melted butter
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cooked chicken or beef (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle the melted butter over the chips, followed by the caramel sauce.
4. Top with sliced apples, shredded mozzarella cheese, and diced cooked chicken or beef (if using).
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Hummus
Experience the warm flavors of fall with this unique twist on traditional hummus, infused with the comforting spices of pumpkin pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine pumpkin puree, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika or chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cranberry Brie Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the creamy richness of brie cheese with the tart sweetness of cranberries, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– Salt 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. Cut into small squares, about 2 inches per side.
4. In the center of each square, place a spoonful of softened brie cheese.
5. Top the brie with a few cranberries, a sprinkle of sugar, and a pinch of orange zest.
6. Fold the pastry squares over the filling to form triangles or rectangles.
7. Place the bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with salt.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato Wedges with Chipotle Aioli
A twist on classic potato wedges, these sweet potato wedges are smothered in a spicy and creamy chipotle aioli that will elevate your snack game.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Garlic powder, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut sweet potatoes into wedges and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the sweet potato wedges and sprinkle with salt.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. While sweet potatoes are baking, mix mayonnaise, chipotle peppers, lemon juice, and garlic powder in a bowl to make the aioli.
6. Once sweet potatoes are done, remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.
7. Serve warm with chipotle aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Harvest Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this vibrant salad, featuring roasted butternut squash, crisp kale, and a tangy pomegranate vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup pomegranate vinaigrette (recipe below)
Pomegranate Vinaigrette:
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon pomegranate juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, massage kale with your hands until it becomes tender and slightly wilted.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate vinaigrette ingredients. Season to taste.
4. Toss roasted squash, kale, nuts, and feta (if using) with the pomegranate vinaigrette. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Pumpkin Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce
A seasonal twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines the warmth of pumpkin puree with the earthy flavor of sage and a rich butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– Salt, to taste
– Sage Butter Sauce (recipe below)
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Sage Butter Sauce:
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, flour, eggs, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Roll out the dough to desired thickness (about 1/8 inch). Cut into squares or shapes of your choice.
3. Cook ravioli in boiling, salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
4. While the ravioli cooks, prepare the Sage Butter Sauce by mixing softened butter with chopped sage, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve cooked ravioli with a pat of Sage Butter Sauce and grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time:
– 15-20 minutes (including preparation time)
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Elevate your side dish game with this simple and flavorful recipe, pairing the sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts with the smokiness of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
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. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, flipping halfway through (about 8-10 minutes).
6. Remove the sprouts from the oven and toss with cooked bacon, red pepper flakes (if using), and any accumulated juices.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pecan Pie Thumbprint Cookies
These chewy cookies are infused with the rich flavors of pecans and molasses, perfect for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tbsp molasses
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 soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chopped pecans and molasses.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Use your thumb or a spoon to create an indentation in the center of each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Sweet and indulgent, these Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of refrigerated biscuit dough (12-15 count)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. Open the can of biscuit dough and separate the dough into individual pieces.
3. Fry the dough balls in batches until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
4. Remove the donut holes from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
6. While the donuts are still warm, toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
7. Serve the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes warm or at room temperature. Dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per batch
Autumn Spiced Mulled Wine
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, warm up with a cup of autumn spiced mulled wine. This cozy concoction combines rich red wine with aromatic spices and sweet maple syrup to create a perfect blend for chilly fall evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves.
2. Heat over medium heat until the mixture simmers gently.
3. Reduce heat to low and add brown sugar, maple syrup, orange slices, and lemon slices.
4. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the wine has reached your desired level of spiciness.
5. Strain the mulled wine into a serving pitcher or individual cups.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Chili with Cornbread Topping
Warm up with a comforting bowl of pumpkin chili, topped with a crispy cornbread crust.
Ingredients:
For the Pumpkin Chili:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium pumpkin, cooked and pureed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Cornbread Topping:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Simmer chili for 20-25 minutes or until flavors meld together.
5. Meanwhile, prepare cornbread topping by whisking eggs, buttermilk, flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Pour the batter over the simmering chili and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart Recipe
Summary:
Elevate your tart game with this sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions, tangy goat cheese, and flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat with olive oil, brown sugar, and salt until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Spread the cooked onion mixture evenly onto the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Top the onions with crumbled goat cheese.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush the crust with a little water and sprinkle with thyme leaves (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Pear Galette
This Spiced Pear Galette recipe combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of pears, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
3. Arrange the pear slices in a circular pattern on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom evenly over the pears.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a circle.
6. Brush the edges with the melted butter and press gently to seal.
7. Place the galette on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fall Harvest Charcuterie Board
Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this vibrant charcuterie board featuring seasonal delights.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of cheddar cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/4 cup caramelized pecans
– 1/4 cup fig jam
– 1 baguette, sliced
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Arrange the cheese, cranberries, walnuts, and apples on a large serving board in a visually appealing pattern.
2. Drizzle the fig jam over the fruit and nuts.
3. Place the caramelized pecans around the board for added texture and crunch.
4. Slice the baguette and arrange it near the center of the board.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: None, simply assemble and serve!
Summary
Get ready for a cozy fall gathering with these 18 delicious recipes! From sweet treats like Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars and Pecan Pie Thumbprint Cookies, to savory dishes like Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, there’s something for everyone. Impress your guests with Apple Cider Sangria and Autumn Spiced Mulled Wine, or serve up a warm and comforting Butternut Squash Soup Shooter. And don’t forget the fun snacks like Caramel Apple Nachos and Sweet Potato Wedges with Chipotle Aioli! These recipes will make your fall party truly unforgettable.