11 Festive Fall Dessert Ideas for Holiday Tables

11 Festive Fall Dessert Ideas for Holiday Tables

Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake

delightful autumn cheesecake recipe

Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake is a delightful and decadent dessert that perfectly captures the cozy flavors of fall. With its creamy texture and warm spices, this cheesecake makes for an impressive centerpiece at any autumn gathering or holiday feast. Topped with a luscious layer of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it’s sure to please pumpkin lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients Quantity
Cream cheese 2 (8 oz) packages
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Sour cream 1/2 cup
Eggs 3 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon
Ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon
Ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon
Graham cracker crumbs 1 1/2 cups
Unsalted butter (melted) 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan to form the crust.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then add the pumpkin puree, sour cream, eggs, and spices, mixing until fully combined.
  4. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in the springform pan and smooth the top.
  5. Bake for 55-60 minutes until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Let it cool on a wire rack.
  6. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight before serving. Top with whipped cream and additional spices as desired. Enjoy!
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Caramel Apple Tart

caramel apple tart recipe

Caramel Apple Tart is a classic fall dessert that combines the sweetness of caramel with the tartness of fresh apples, all nestled within a buttery, flaky pastry crust. This elegant tart not only looks beautiful but also delivers a comforting blend of flavors that are perfect for autumn gatherings. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat!

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 1/4 cups
Unsalted butter (cold) 1/2 cup, cubed
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Ice water 3-4 tablespoons
Tart apples (e.g., Granny Smith) 4 cups, sliced
Light brown sugar 1/2 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) 1/2 cup
Egg (beaten, for egg wash) 1

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a tart pan.
  2. In a food processor, combine flour, butter, sugar, and salt; pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together.
  3. Roll the dough out on a floured surface and fit it into the prepared tart pan; trim any excess. Prick the bottom with a fork and chill for 15 minutes.
  4. In a bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice, then arrange them in the tart shell.
  5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples and bake for 30-35 minutes until the apples are tender and the crust is golden.
  6. Allow the tart to cool slightly before serving, drizzling with additional caramel if desired. Enjoy!
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Maple Pecan Pie

maple pecan pie recipe

Maple Pecan Pie is a quintessential fall dessert that combines the rich, nutty flavor of pecans with the sweetness of maple syrup, creating a decadent treat that’s ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home. This pie features a flaky crust that perfectly complements the gooey, caramel-like filling, making it a must-have on any fall dessert table.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups
Unsalted butter (cold) 1/2 cup, cubed
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Ice water 3-4 tablespoons
Light corn syrup 1 cup
Pure maple syrup 1/2 cup
Eggs 3 large, beaten
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Pecan halves 1 1/2 cups
Egg (beaten, for egg wash) 1

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch pie pan by greasing it lightly.
  2. In a food processor, combine flour, butter, sugar, and salt; pulse until crumbly. Gradually add ice water until the dough forms. Roll out and fit into the pie pan. Trim and crimp edges.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
  4. Stir in the pecan halves, then pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
  5. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
  6. Allow the pie to cool before serving. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, preferably with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream!
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Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding

cinnamon roll dessert delight

Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding is a warm and comforting dessert that perfectly captures the flavors of autumn. Combining the soft, gooey richness of cinnamon rolls with a custard-like mixture, this dish is a delightful twist on traditional bread pudding. It’s great for using up leftover cinnamon rolls and makes for an indulgent treat that’s perfect for serving at holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients Quantity
Cinnamon rolls (day-old) 6-8 rolls
Whole milk 2 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Granulated sugar 3/4 cup
Eggs 3 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Butter 2 tablespoons, melted
Maple syrup 1/4 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cut the cinnamon rolls into bite-sized pieces and place them in the prepared baking dish.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together milk, cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and melted butter until combined.
  4. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces, ensuring they are well soaked.
  5. Drizzle maple syrup over the top and gently stir to distribute.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the pudding is set and lightly golden on top.
  7. Allow it to cool slightly before serving warm, perhaps with a drizzle of icing or a scoop of ice cream!
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Sweet Potato Cake With Marshmallow Frosting

sweet potato cake delight

Sweet Potato Cake With Marshmallow Frosting is a delightful fall dessert that brings together the warm, earthy flavors of sweet potatoes and the light, fluffy sweetness of marshmallow frosting. This cake is moist and tender, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or as a cozy treat alongside a cup of coffee. The addition of spices adds a lovely autumnal touch, while the marshmallow frosting creates a whimsical finish that everyone will love.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Granulated sugar 1 ½ cups
Baking powder 2 teaspoons
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg ½ teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Eggs 3 large
Cooked and mashed sweet potatoes 1 cup
Vegetable oil ½ cup
Vanilla extract 2 teaspoons
Marshmallow Frosting Ingredients Quantity
Marshmallow fluff 1 jar (7 oz)
Unsalted butter ½ cup
Powdered sugar 2 cups
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the mashed sweet potatoes, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients until fully incorporated.
  5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. While the cakes cool, prepare the marshmallow frosting by beating the butter until creamy, then gradually add the marshmallow fluff, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
  7. Once the cake layers are cooled, spread frosting between the layers and on top of the cake before serving. Enjoy this festive sweet treat!
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Spiced Cranberry Muffins

autumn flavor cranberry muffins

Spiced Cranberry Muffins are a perfect blend of tart and sweet, capturing the essence of fall in every bite. These moist muffins are packed with fresh cranberries and warm spices, making them a delightful addition to any autumn breakfast or brunch table. The combination of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a warm, cozy flavor profile, while the bursts of tart cranberries offer a revitalizing contrast.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Granulated sugar ¾ cup
Baking powder 2 teaspoons
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg ½ teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Eggs 2 large
Milk 1 cup
Vegetable oil ½ cup
Fresh cranberries 1 ½ cups
Chopped walnuts (optional) ½ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin pan with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and vegetable oil until well combined.
  4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, gently folding in the cranberries and walnuts if using.
  5. Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with batter and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!
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Chocolate Pumpkin Bread

chocolate pumpkin bread recipe

Chocolate Pumpkin Bread is a deliciously moist and decadent fall treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the warm, earthy taste of pumpkin. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this bread brings a delightful twist to traditional pumpkin recipes. It’s an easy-to-make loaf that not only fills your home with a wonderful autumn aroma but also offers a comforting taste that everyone will love.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 ½ cups
Unsweetened cocoa powder ½ cup
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Eggs 2 large
Vegetable oil ½ cup
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Baking soda ½ teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg ½ teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Chocolate chips ½ cup (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vegetable oil until smooth.
  4. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  6. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!
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Pear and Almond Galette

rustic pear almond pastry

Pear and Almond Galette is a rustic and elegant dessert that showcases the delightful combination of tender pears and a rich almond filling, all wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. This versatile treat is perfect for autumn gatherings, offering a delicious balance of sweetness and nuttiness that is sure to impress your guests and family alike.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 ½ cups
Unsalted butter (chilled) ½ cup
Granulated sugar 2 tablespoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Ice water 4-5 tablespoons
Pears (sliced) 3 medium
Almond paste ½ cup
Ground almonds (or almond flour) ½ cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Egg (beaten for egg wash) 1
Sliced almonds (optional) For topping

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface, transferring it to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Spread almond paste over the crust, leaving a border, then layer the sliced pears on top.
  6. Fold the edges of the dough over the pears, pleating as necessary, and brush with beaten egg.
  7. Sprinkle with sliced almonds if desired and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and the pears are tender.
  8. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious galette warm or at room temperature!
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Carrot Cake Cupcakes With Cream Cheese Frosting

carrot cake cupcakes recipe

Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful twist on the classic carrot cake, perfect for fall festivities. These moist and flavorful cupcakes are brimming with freshly grated carrots and warm spices, topped with a rich and creamy frosting that enhances their natural sweetness. Ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a comforting treat, these cupcakes are sure to lift everyone’s spirits during the festive season.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 ½ cups
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar ½ cup
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Baking soda ½ teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg ½ teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Vegetable oil ½ cup
Eggs 2 large
Grated carrots 1 ½ cups (about 3 medium carrots)
Chopped walnuts (optional) ½ cup
Cream cheese 8 oz, softened
Unsalted butter (softened) ½ cup
Powdered sugar 2 cups
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix vegetable oil and eggs until combined, then stir in grated carrots (and walnuts, if using).
  4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
  5. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
  6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
  7. For the frosting, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fluffy.
  8. Frost cooled cupcakes and enjoy your delicious carrot cake cupcakes with cream cheese frosting!
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Ginger Snap Cookies

ginger snap cookie recipe

Ginger Snap Cookies are a classic fall treat that embodies the warm, spicy flavors of the season. These cookies are crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside, infused with the rich taste of ginger and a hint of molasses. Perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying with a cup of tea, these cookies bring a cozy, festive spirit to any gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Ground ginger 2 teaspoons
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground cloves ½ teaspoon
Baking soda 2 teaspoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar ½ cup
Unsulfured molasses ½ cup
Vegetable oil ⅓ cup
Eggs 1 large
Granulated sugar (for rolling) ½ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, molasses, and vegetable oil until smooth. Beat in the egg.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  5. Scoop tablespoons of dough, roll into balls, and then roll in granulated sugar before placing on the baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are firm and tops are cracked. Allow cooling on a wire rack before enjoying your delicious ginger snap cookies!

Harvest Fruit Crisp

warm fall fruit dessert

Harvest Fruit Crisp is a warm and comforting dessert perfect for fall gatherings. This delightful dish showcases a medley of seasonal fruits, such as apples, pears, and berries, topped with a buttery oat crumble that adds a satisfying crunch. Served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, this fruit crisp is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any festive occasion.

Ingredients Quantity
Mixed seasonal fruits (apples, pears, berries) 6 cups (diced)
Granulated sugar ½ cup
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
All-purpose flour ½ cup
Rolled oats 1 cup
Brown sugar ½ cup
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter (melted) ½ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the diced mixed fruits with granulated sugar and lemon juice; transfer to the prepared baking dish.
  3. In another bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is crumbly.
  4. Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the fruit.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious harvest fruit crisp!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.