10+ Autumn Recipes to Warm Your Heart and Home

Autumn brings a wonderful opportunity to enjoy hearty and comforting meals. You can explore a variety of seasonal ingredients to create delicious recipes that warm you up and celebrate the flavors of fall. Whether you prefer soups, stews, or baked goods, this season is full of options to satisfy your cravings.

As the weather cools down, it’s the perfect time to gather with friends and family over a cozy dinner. From pumpkin-based dishes to apple desserts, autumn recipes highlight the bounty of the season. Embrace this time of year by trying out new dishes that can become family favorites.

1) Instant Pot Chili

Instant Pot chili is a perfect dish for autumn. It’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to make. You can have a delicious meal ready in about 45 minutes.

This chili is packed with ingredients like ground beef, beans, and spices. You can also add toppings such as cheese and sour cream for extra flavor. It’s a great option for chilly days.

You can make it using your Instant Pot, which speeds up the cooking time. The result is a hearty meal that warms you up and satisfies your appetite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) beans, drained
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Toppings like cheese or sour cream (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode.
2. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until browned.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add beans and diced tomatoes. Mix well.
5. Close the lid and set it to high pressure for 15 minutes.
6. Once done, release the pressure. Serve hot with toppings.

2) Butternut Crumb Cake

Butternut crumb cake is a cozy treat, perfect for autumn. It brings together the sweetness of butternut squash and warm spices. The crumb topping adds a delightful crunch that complements the soft cake underneath.

You can enjoy this cake at breakfast or as a dessert. It’s wonderful with a cup of coffee or tea. The combination of flavors makes it a favorite for any fall gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup butternut squash puree
• ¾ cup sugar
• ½ cup butter, softened
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ cup chopped pecans

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy.
3. Add the eggs and mix well.
4. Stir in the butternut squash puree.
5. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
7. Pour into a greased baking pan.
8. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Let cool before serving.

3) Cabbage Gratin

Cabbage gratin is a comforting dish perfect for autumn. With layers of creamy sauce and melted cheese, it adds warmth to your table. Roasting the cabbage gives it a rich flavor and texture.

You start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Boil or roast the cabbage until it’s tender. Then, layer it in a baking dish, adding cheese and sauce between each layer.

Top it all with breadcrumbs for a crispy finish. Bake for about 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly. This dish is simple but satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 head of green cabbage
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Boil or roast the cabbage until tender.
3. In a baking dish, layer cabbage, cream, and cheeses.
4. Repeat layering, finishing with breadcrumbs on top.
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.

4) Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin pie is a classic autumn dessert that many people love. Its creamy texture and warm spices create a comforting treat perfect for any fall gathering.

To make a homemade pumpkin pie, you can use fresh pumpkin or canned pumpkin puree. The key flavors usually include cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, which add a delightful warmth.

For an extra touch, consider using a buttery pie crust. It’s easy to make your own or you can buy a pre-made one.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups pumpkin puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ginger
• 1 pie crust

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the pumpkin, cream, sugar, and spices.
3. Add the eggs and mix until smooth.
4. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
5. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-40 minutes.

5) Apple Crisp

Apple crisp is a classic dessert that warms your heart. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh autumn apples. With a crispy topping and tender apples, it makes a perfect treat for any occasion.

To make it, start with tart apples, which give the best flavor. Mix them with cinnamon and nutmeg for extra warmth. The topping usually includes oats, brown sugar, and butter for a delicious crunch.

Serve your apple crisp warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the best experience. The combination of flavors and textures is simply delightful!

Ingredients

• 6 cups sliced apples
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter, melted

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, mix flour, oats, sugars, and salt.
4. Pour melted butter over the oat mixture and mix until crumbly.
5. Spread apples in a baking dish and top with the oat mixture.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

6) Brown-Butter Pumpkin Pasta

Brown-butter pumpkin pasta is a delightful dish perfect for autumn. The combination of creamy pumpkin and nutty brown butter creates a rich sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.

You can add garlic and fresh sage for extra flavor. This dish is not only comforting but also easy to prepare, making it suitable for a cozy dinner at home.

Serve it with parmesan cheese on top for a tasty finish. You’ll enjoy the warm, vibrant flavors that capture the essence of fall.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta of your choice
• 1 cup (240 ml) pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (25 g) grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh sage leaves

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat until it turns golden brown.
3. Add minced garlic and fresh sage; sauté for 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in pumpkin puree and heavy cream; mix well.
5. Combine the sauce with cooked pasta.
6. Top with parmesan, salt, and pepper before serving.

7) Mushroom Cassoulet

Mushroom cassoulet is a comforting dish perfect for autumn. This recipe combines hearty mushrooms with beans for a filling meal. It’s both cozy and satisfying, making it a great choice for chilly evenings.

You can use any mix of mushrooms you like. Chanterelle and cremini mushrooms add wonderful flavors. Pair these with white beans and some herbs to create a rich taste.

You can prepare this dish in just one pot, making cleanup easy. It cooks quickly, usually under 30 minutes, so it’s great for busy nights.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed mushrooms (like chanterelle and cremini)
• 1 can white beans, drained
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup bread crumbs

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft.
3. Stir in the mushrooms, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until soft.
4. Add the white beans and stir to combine.
5. Top with bread crumbs and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.

8) Smoky Lentil Soup

Smoky lentil soup is a warm and comforting dish perfect for chilly autumn days. It’s full of flavors and can easily be made vegan. You’ll enjoy how simple it is to prepare.

Start by heating olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and garlic to sauté for a few minutes. Next, stir in some tomato paste and paprika for that smoky flavor.

Once those ingredients are well mixed, add lentils and vegetable broth. Let the soup simmer until the lentils are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This soup pairs well with crusty bread for a hearty meal. Enjoy every spoonful!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup lentils
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion, carrots, and garlic; sauté for a few minutes.
3. Stir in tomato paste and paprika.
4. Add lentils and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Cook until lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

9) Vegan Autumn Stew

Vegan autumn stew is a warm and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. It’s filled with colorful vegetables like squash, carrots, and potatoes. You can easily customize it with your favorite seasonal ingredients.

Start by heating some olive oil in a pot. Add chopped onions and garlic for flavor. Then, throw in your veggies such as sweet potatoes and carrots.

Pour in vegetable broth and some spices like thyme and rosemary. Simmer everything for about 30 minutes until the veggies are tender.

Serve it hot with bread or on its own for a cozy meal. This stew makes great leftovers and is perfect for meal prep!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups sweet potatoes, diced
• 2 cups carrots, sliced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot.
2. Add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until soft.
3. Add sweet potatoes and carrots.
4. Pour in vegetable broth.
5. Stir in thyme and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer for about 30 minutes, until veggies are tender.
7. Serve hot.

10) Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is a delightful treat for autumn. It combines the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with a hint of coffee. Enjoy a piece with a cozy drink as the weather cools down.

The cake is soft and has a great texture. Topped with espresso buttercream, it perfectly mimics your favorite fall drink. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for gatherings.

You’ll need some common ingredients to get started. Gather up your supplies and get ready to enjoy this delicious cake!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 cup brewed espresso
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
3. In another bowl, blend pumpkin puree, eggs, and coconut oil.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients. Then, add brewed espresso.
5. Pour into a greased cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
6. Let it cool before frosting with espresso buttercream.
7. Enjoy!