15 Must-Try Apple and Pumpkin Desserts for Fall

15 Irresistible Apple and Pumpkin Desserts: Your Ultimate Fall Recipe Guide

As the leaves begin to change and a crisp breeze fills the air, our thoughts often turn to the comforting flavors of fall. And when it comes to seasonal treats, nothing quite captures the essence of autumn like the harmonious blend of apples and pumpkins. These two quintessential fall ingredients bring warmth, spice, and natural sweetness to a myriad of desserts, making them truly irresistible.

Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply craving a taste of the season, apple and pumpkin desserts are always a delightful choice. We’ve gathered a handpicked collection of 15 delicious dessert recipes featuring apples and pumpkins, contributed by talented food bloggers from across the country, to inspire your fall baking adventures. Get ready to indulge in the very best of autumn’s bounty!

These sweet delights are the perfect grand finale to a meal featuring your favorite fall comfort foods. Imagine serving a slice of warm apple pie after a hearty bowl of Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese, or a creamy pumpkin cheesecake following a rich Pumpkin Cream Sauce with pasta or a robust Irish Beef Stew. The possibilities for a truly memorable fall feast are endless!

A vibrant collage showcasing various delicious apple and pumpkin dessert recipes, perfect for fall.
A delicious array of apple and pumpkin desserts, ready to make your fall celebrations extra special.

Why Apple and Pumpkin Desserts are Fall Favorites

There’s an undeniable magic when apples and pumpkins take center stage in the kitchen, especially as the seasons shift from the warmth of summer to the cozy embrace of autumn. Each one of these delightful recipes taps into the nostalgic and comforting flavors that make fall baking so special. They don’t just taste good; they evoke memories of harvest festivals, family gatherings, and crisp autumn afternoons.

In our kitchens, these are the flavors that truly signify a change of season is underway from summer to fall. From the classic richness of a delicious pumpkin pie to the sweet, spiced warmth of caramel apple pie filling, and even the innovative chill of pumpkin spice ice cream – this collection offers something for every palate. These desserts are perfect for celebrating the season, providing a delightful treat for everyone in the family. They’re not just recipes; they’re invitations to create cherished fall memories, one sweet bite at a time.

Both apples and pumpkins are incredibly versatile ingredients. Apples offer a range of textures and tartness, from crisp and sweet to soft and tangy, making them ideal for pies, cakes, and crumbles. Pumpkins, with their earthy sweetness and smooth texture, lend themselves beautifully to creamy custards, moist breads, and rich cheesecakes. When combined with warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger, they create an aromatic symphony that truly defines the autumn season.

Our Handpicked Collection of Apple and Pumpkin Desserts

1. Pumpkin Pie with Sweetened Condensed Milk

A perfectly sliced pumpkin pie on a plate, garnished with a fork, ready to be enjoyed.

Indulge in a truly smooth and creamy pumpkin pie that’s sweetened to absolute perfection. This isn’t just any pumpkin pie; it’s renowned for being one of the easiest recipes you’ll ever make, ready for the oven in less than 15 minutes. Its rich texture and classic fall spices make it an essential dessert for any autumn gathering, from Thanksgiving to casual family dinners. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers on flavor with minimal effort.

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2. Winning Apple Pie Bars

A delectable apple pie bar resting on a white plate, accompanied by a fork, showcasing its crisp crust and sweet apple filling.

Prepare your taste buds for the best apple bars you’ll sink your teeth into this fall! These bars perfectly capture all the beloved flavors of a traditional apple pie but in a convenient, handheld form. They’re so good, in fact, that they were first runner-up at a baking contest! Ideal for potlucks, lunchboxes, or a simple autumn treat. Photo and recipe courtesy of the Chew Out Loud food blog.

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3. Pumpkin Roll

A beautifully sliced pumpkin roll, revealing its creamy filling and garnished with chopped pecans.

This classic Pumpkin Roll recipe is a showstopper, featuring a moist, spiced pumpkin cake rolled around a luscious, creamy filling. It’s made even more delightful with the addition of chopped pecans, providing a lovely textural contrast. The star, however, is truly the best cream cheese frosting that generously swirls through the center. A sophisticated yet comforting dessert, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special moment. Recipe and photo courtesy of the Simply Scratch Made food blog.

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4. No Churn Pumpkin Spice Latte Ice Cream

Two ice cream cones, filled with creamy pumpkin spice latte ice cream and topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream, presented on a stand.

Who says ice cream is only for summer? This incredible No-Churn Pumpkin Spice Latte Ice Cream brings the iconic fall drink into a frozen, creamy dessert format. The best part? You don’t need an ice cream maker to create this mouthwatering sweet treat, bursting with the delicious flavors of fall! It’s an effortless way to enjoy the beloved pumpkin spice taste in a cool, refreshing way. Recipe and photo courtesy the XOXO Bella food blog.

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5. Apple Pie Bites

A golden-brown apple pie bite, perfectly sized for a single serving, on a simple plate.

These adorable Apple Pie Bites are incredibly versatile, making them great for breakfast, a quick snack, or a delightful dessert. They’re brilliantly simple to make, utilizing convenient Pillsbury Crescent Rolls filled with a sweet apple pie filling. The result is these irresistible, muffin-sized delicious pies that are perfect for little hands or for enjoying on the go. An easy and fun way to get your apple pie fix! Recipe and photo courtesy Cincy Shopper.

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6. Fresh Apple Cake

A moist slice of fresh apple cake on a plate, showcasing its golden crumb and bits of apple.

Discover the delightful simplicity of Fresh Apple Cake, a truly easy-to-make dessert that requires no peeling of the apples! This moist and flavorful cake is packed with fresh apple chunks, creating a rustic yet elegant treat. Each bite is like taking a cozy autumn day and turning it into a delicious, aromatic dessert. It’s perfect with a cup of coffee or as a comforting after-dinner indulgence. Pure fall bliss!.

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7. Pumpkin Pie Filled Thumbprint Cookies

A plate of inviting thumbprint cookies, each generously filled with pumpkin pie filling and topped with a dollop of cream.

Imagine your favorite pumpkin pie, but in a convenient, bite-sized cookie form – that’s exactly what these Pumpkin Pie Filled Thumbprint Cookies offer! These make perfect fall desserts, combining a buttery shortbread crust with a luscious, spiced pumpkin pie filling in the center. They’re an adorable and delicious twist on classic fall flavors, ideal for cookie platters or a sweet treat with tea. Recipe and photo courtesy of the Broken Oven Baking food blog.

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8. Best Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe

A whole pumpkin cheesecake on a serving platter with one slice removed, revealing its creamy texture.

Prepare to be amazed by the Best Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe, a dessert that masterfully blends rich, creamy texture with the vibrant, classic flavors of fall. This cheesecake is not only decadent in taste but also boasts an incredibly smooth consistency that melts in your mouth. Best of all, it’s a great make-ahead dessert, perfect for holiday feasts or special occasions, allowing you to focus on other preparations. Recipe and photo courtesy the Little Sweet Baker food blog.

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9. Apple Pie With Graham Cracker Crust

A slice of apple pie with a golden graham cracker crust, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, on a white plate.

If you’re a fan of fruit pies with a delightful twist, you must try this easy caramel apple pie featuring a unique graham cracker crust and a crumbly topping! This recipe elevates the traditional apple pie with a sweet and slightly tangy graham cracker base, offering a wonderful texture and flavor contrast. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for something a little different from the classic pastry crust. Recipe and photo courtesy the Chenée Today food blog.

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10. Marbled Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Three perfectly cut marbled pumpkin cheesecake bars, stacked elegantly on a white plate.

These Marbled Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are the quintessential fall dessert, delivering all the rich, spiced flavor of a creamy pumpkin pie with the delightful tang of cheesecake. The velvety bars are incredibly easy to make, offering a beautiful marbled effect that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. They serve up easily like brownies, making them perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as individual treats. A true autumn delight!

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11. Pumpkin Bundt Cake

A generous slice of pumpkin bundt cake on a plate, adorned with a sweet frosting and a sprinkle of nuts.

Here’s an easy Pumpkin Bundt Cake recipe that anyone can make, promising a showstopping dessert with minimal fuss. This cake is wonderfully moist and generously filled with delicious, warm fall spices, making every bite a comforting experience. Its elegant bundt shape makes it perfect for a holiday centerpiece, yet it’s simple enough for a weeknight treat. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar. Recipe and photo courtesy the Tasty Treats and Eats food blog.

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12. Moist Apple Scones with Maple Glaze

A soft, flaky apple scone drizzled with a sweet maple glaze, presented on a white plate.

Start your autumn mornings or elevate your afternoon tea with these delightful Moist Apple Scones. Each scone is generously studded with sweet, juicy apple pieces and infused with fragrant cinnamon, creating an irresistible aroma as they bake. To top it all off, they’re finished with a generous drizzle of a rich maple glaze, adding an extra layer of sweetness and fall flavor. A perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Recipe and photo courtesy the Borrowed Bites food blog.

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13. Slow Cooker Caramel Apple Pie Filling

A rustic bowl filled with rich caramel apple pie filling, accompanied by fresh apples and a spoon, highlighting its homemade appeal.

Revolutionize your pie-making process with this incredible Slow Cooker Caramel Apple Pie Filling! This recipe shows you how to turn fresh apples into the most amazing caramel apple pie filling using the convenience of your slow cooker. It’s the fuss-free way to make an amazing dessert component, saving you time and effort while infusing the apples with deep, rich caramel flavor. Perfect for pies, tarts, or even as a topping for ice cream. Recipe and photo courtesy the Lazy Slow Cooker food blog.

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14. Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

A loaf of moist pumpkin bread, beautifully sliced, revealing its soft texture and generous topping of creamy cream cheese frosting.

Elevate your classic pumpkin bread with this irresistible recipe, featuring a loaf that is truly topped with a delicious cream cheese frosting. This pumpkin bread is exceptionally moist, incredibly scrumptious, and wonderfully festive for fall. The tangy sweetness of the cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the warm spices of the pumpkin bread, creating a harmonious flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack.

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15. Caramel Apple Ice Cream Topping

A bowl of creamy vanilla ice cream generously drizzled with homemade caramel apple sauce, with cinnamon sticks as garnish.

Transform a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream into the ultimate fall indulgence with this easy homemade caramel apple ice cream topping. These delicious caramel apple sundaes are undoubtedly the best fall treat, made with fresh apples cooked down to a tender, caramel-infused sauce. Served warm over cool vanilla ice cream, it creates a sensational contrast of temperatures and textures that will delight everyone. Recipe and photo courtesy the Scarlati Family Kitchen food blog.

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Tips for Perfect Fall Desserts

To ensure your apple and pumpkin desserts turn out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:

  • Choose the Right Apples: For baking, opt for firm, crisp apples that hold their shape well, like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Granny Smith, or Gala. A mix of sweet and tart varieties can add depth to your desserts.
  • Pumpkin Puree vs. Pie Filling: Always double-check your recipe! Pumpkin puree is 100% cooked pumpkin, while pumpkin pie filling is already sweetened and spiced. Using the wrong one can drastically alter the taste.
  • Embrace Fall Spices: Don’t shy away from cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and allspice. These spices are the heart of fall baking and enhance both apple and pumpkin flavors beautifully.
  • Don’t Overmix: For cakes, breads, and muffins, overmixing can lead to tough textures. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: For cheesecakes and creamy fillings, ensure dairy products like cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free batter.
  • Taste as You Go (Carefully!): When preparing fillings, taste and adjust spices or sweetness as needed before baking.

Pairing Your Fall Desserts

The experience of enjoying a fall dessert can be enhanced significantly with the right accompaniment. Consider these delightful pairings:

  • Warm Beverages: A hot cup of freshly brewed coffee, a comforting spiced chai latte, or a classic apple cider (especially mulled!) are perfect partners for any of these desserts. For a more adult treat, a glass of mulled wine or a bourbon cream liqueur can be surprisingly complementary.
  • Creamy Toppings: A dollop of freshly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce can elevate nearly any apple or pumpkin dessert. Don’t forget a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Cheese Pairings: For a more sophisticated approach, consider pairing apple desserts with a sharp cheddar or creamy brie. The salty, savory notes of the cheese can beautifully cut through the sweetness of the fruit.
  • Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh berries or a light fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast to richer, heavier desserts, balancing the overall indulgence.

Have you tried a recipe from my Apple and Pumpkin Dessert recipe roundup? We’d love to hear about your baking success! Please leave a review and share your thoughts in the comments section below and let us know how it turned out. Your feedback helps us and other readers discover their next favorite fall treat. Thank you!