Once school starts and the weather turns cooler, I need cinnamon flavors in most of my food, and seek out apples that actually taste like something. I turn to cozy - not fancy - fall baking, let the oven warm the house evening and morning, and take advantage of those fall vegetables at dinnertime.
Fall Scone Recipes
Scones are perfect for cool-weather mornings. They make breakfast feel like a treat without much effort - much easier and more casual than a coffee cake. Whether it's cinnamon scones as sweet as cinnamon rolls or something heartier like cranberry oat scones, I sometimes make the dough ahead of time and freeze it to make brunch a breeze - in fact, they're often even better that way.
Apple Recipes
While everyone knows the phrase "easy as apple pie," what I make with apples is usually even easier. This apple cider donut cake is moist and flavorful, baked into a Bundt pan instead of fried. Slow cooker apple butter turns a few apples - even older ones - into a lightly sweetened spread you can enjoy any time.
Fall Pie Recipes
Pies are autumn desserts in my house - the longer baking time warms the house while the pastry smells warm the heart. (Corny, I know.) Pecan pie is a classic staple, but we also make an old-school "spicy" pumpkin pie that's spiced with mace for anyone on the fence about pumpkin pie.
Fall Cocktail Recipes
Cooler weather calls for stiffer drinks. Bourbon cranberry cocktail is a festive reason to buy that cranberry juice, while the whiskey sherry cocktail is smooth and nutty.
Fall Vegetable Side Dishes
Although I like sweet potatoes all year round, I love getting local ones when they're in season. Slow roasted, they're a perfect side - and ideal for a simple, healthier take on the classic sweet potato casserole. Grilling winter squash remains our favorite way to cook it - much faster than roasting, and far more delicious.
