8 fall food ideas

Fall is one of those seasons that has such distinct flavors, which I think is one reason cooking during fall is one of my favorite things to do.  Last fall I went mad for soups, but there are so many other treats and dishes that are perfect this time of year, so I wanted to share some of my favorite recipes from past autumns. 

Pumpkin is an obvious major flavor this season, so it pretty much goes without saying that there are a couple pumpkin recipes included.  One of my favorite treats from last fall was Pumpkin Cupcakes with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting.  So decadent and screams "fall."  I'm hosting a little fall party at my house this weekend so I think I'm going to make a mini cupcake version of these big ones.  Since they're pretty rich (especially the frosting), a mini cupcake will be the perfect bite size for a party with lady friends.  

MOAR PUMPKIN.  I love these pumpkin cookies with maple icing.  The frosting is really what makes them.  The pumpkin cookie is light and fluffy, but the frosting has that crunch, plus the maple flavor, that just makes them pop!

Last fall we harvested a bunch of apples and had to come up with ways to use our surplus of apples and I'm pretty sure I made at least two batches of this applesauce.  It's basically not worth it to me to get store bought applesauce anymore because this stuff is just so much better.  Plus, it's super easy to make!

Hi there, pumpkin again.  This time in the form of a smoothie/milkshake type temptation.  I think technically this is a smoothie, but I think of smoothies as more fruity and "healthy," but this is basically dessert.  But, come on, so is a pumpkin spice latte and everyone drinks those on the daily so....

I made this drink earlier this year, but something about bourbon and rosemary feels fall to me.  I mean, somehow you have to warm yourself as the temperatures start to drop.  Sipping on a rosemary old fashioned sounds like the perfect way to do so.  If I had a fireplace, I would have one of these in my hand, while curled up in a quilt, sitting on a fur rug... blogging.  Blogging is romantic, see?

Ginger is a year-round favorite flavor for me, but it seems like ginger gets more popular during the fall and winter.  Make yourself a batch (or two) of this Ginger Liquor to last you through the season.  It tastes great on it's own, but it's also amazing in mixed drinks as well!

Get your comfort food on!  I think one reason I love soup during fall is that I just want warmth inside me, and hot liquids just seems like the most efficient way of doing just that.  This mac and cheese has the same effect, with all it's melty, cheesy goodness.  

Ditto what I said about mac & cheese, except beef stew.  Because beef stew.  So good.  Plus, it's a crock pot recipe so you can have it cooking all day and ready for dinner with minimal effort.