17+ Fall Equinox Recipes for Seasonal Cooking

As the leaves change color and the air becomes crisp, there’s a sense of magic that fills the kitchen. With the Fall Equinox upon us, it’s the perfect time to explore recipes that capture the essence of the season.

Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto

Butternut squash & sage risotto

Butternut squash & sage risotto from Good Food

Rating: 5. Total Time: 50 min.

Butternut Squash Risotto

Butternut Squash Risotto from Love and Lemons

Rating: 5. Total Time: 55 min.

Roasted butternut squash and sage risotto with pinenuts

Roasted butternut squash and sage risotto with pinenuts from BBC

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 2 h 30 min.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

This creamy risotto is a celebration of fall flavors, with the sweet, nutty taste of butternut squash and the earthy notes of fresh sage. Arborio rice gives it a rich texture, while Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth.

What makes this recipe special is its ability to transform simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. The butternut squash is roasted to bring out its natural sweetness, which perfectly complements the fragrant sage. As the rice slowly absorbs the broth, it takes on a silky texture that’s comforting and indulgent. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan ties everything together with a cheesy finish that’s simply irresistible.

This dish is popular because it’s both elegant and hearty, ideal for a cozy evening at home or a festive autumn gathering. The vibrant orange hue of the squash also makes it a visually stunning centerpiece on any dinner table.

Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts from The Flavor Bender

Rating: 5. Total Time: 40 min.

Brussels Sprouts with Maple Glaze

Brussels Sprouts with Maple Glaze from A Couple Cooks

Rating: 4.7. Total Time: 35 min.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Maple Glaze (AIP, paleo, vegan)

Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Maple Glaze (AIP, paleo, vegan) from Heal Me Delicious

Rating: 5. Total Time: 40 min.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

Brussels sprouts get a delightful makeover in this recipe, where they’re roasted until crispy and then tossed in a sticky-sweet maple glaze. The addition of toasted pecans provides a satisfying crunch, making each bite a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance between the natural bitterness of the Brussels sprouts and the rich sweetness of the maple syrup. Roasting them at a high temperature caramelizes the edges, creating a mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen with warmth. The pecans, with their buttery texture, add a layer of nutty flavor that elevates the dish to new heights.

This recipe is a hit during the fall not only for its taste but also for its simplicity. It’s a quick side dish that pairs well with almost any main course, making it a versatile addition to your autumn repertoire.

Caramel Apple Bread Pudding

Caramel Apple Bread Pudding

Caramel Apple Bread Pudding from Tastes of Lizzy T

Rating: 4.5. Total Time: 1 hr 10 min.

Caramel Apple Bread Pudding

Caramel Apple Bread Pudding from Food Network

Rating: 4.4. Total Time: 3 hr 15 min.

Caramel Apple Bread Pudding

Caramel Apple Bread Pudding from Whitney Bond

Rating: 4.6. Total Time: 1 hr.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

Imagine a cozy dessert that combines the flavors of caramel apples and the comforting texture of bread pudding. This recipe does just that, with chunks of sweet apples and a luscious caramel sauce that soaks into every bite of the pudding.

The beauty of this dessert is how it brings together familiar autumn flavors in a new and exciting way. The apples become tender and juicy as they bake, releasing their natural sweetness into the pudding. Meanwhile, the caramel sauce, made from scratch, adds a rich, buttery flavor that’s truly indulgent. A hint of cinnamon ties everything together, evoking memories of fall festivals and apple picking.

Perfect for a chilly evening, this bread pudding is often a crowd favorite at gatherings, bringing smiles and satisfied sighs from those who try it. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cheesecake

No Bake Pumpkin Spice Latte Cheesecake

No Bake Pumpkin Spice Latte Cheesecake from The Gold Lining Girl

Rating: 5. Total Time: 4 hr 15 min.

Spiced Pumpkin Latte Cheesecake

Spiced Pumpkin Latte Cheesecake from Country Living Magazine

Rating: 3.3.

Gluten Free Pumpkin Spice Latte Cheesecake recipe

Gluten Free Pumpkin Spice Latte Cheesecake recipe from Faithfully Gluten Free

Total Time: 4 hr 45 min.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

This cheesecake captures the essence of the beloved pumpkin spice latte in a creamy, decadent dessert. With a graham cracker crust and a filling that combines pumpkin puree, cream cheese, and warm spices, it’s a fall classic with a twist.

What sets this cheesecake apart is its ability to transform a popular seasonal beverage into a luscious dessert. The pumpkin and spices create a comforting flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. The creamy cheesecake filling is smooth and rich, while the graham cracker crust adds a slight crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.

This dessert is a must-try for pumpkin spice lovers. It’s a showstopper at any fall gathering and pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or a spiced tea.

Harvest Vegetable Soup

Harvest Vegetable Soup

Harvest Vegetable Soup from The Rustic Foodie

Rating: 4.8. Total Time: 50 min.

Country harvest root vegetable soup

Country harvest root vegetable soup from RecipeTin Eats

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 50 min.

Harvest Vegetable Soup Recipe

Harvest Vegetable Soup Recipe from Feasting At Home

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 40 min.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of hearty vegetable soup to warm you up on a cool autumn day. This harvest vegetable soup is packed with seasonal vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and kale, all simmered in a flavorful broth.

The secret to this soup’s popularity is its versatility and heartiness. You can easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite fall vegetables or whatever you have on hand. The broth is infused with herbs like thyme and rosemary, which give it a fragrant aroma and a taste that reminds you of cozy evenings by the fireplace. Each spoonful is a burst of flavors and nutrients, making it as nourishing as it is delicious.

This soup is perfect for meal prepping, as it stores well and tastes even better the next day. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cinnamon-Spiced Pear Tart

World Peace Cookies from Sharon Wray

Total Time: 2 hr.

Mabon Fall Harvest Stuffing from Magickal Spot

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

This tart combines the delicate sweetness of ripe pears with the warm spiciness of cinnamon, all encased in a buttery, flaky crust. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert that embodies the essence of fall.

The magic of this tart lies in the quality of its ingredients and its rustic charm. The pears are thinly sliced and arranged in a beautiful pattern, becoming tender and caramelized as they bake. A sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar enhances their natural sweetness, while the crust provides a rich, buttery foundation that melts in your mouth.

This tart is a favorite for its simplicity and sophistication. It’s perfect for an afternoon tea or as a light dessert after a hearty meal. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Pro Tricks for Amazing Fall Equinox Recipes

World Peace Cookies

World Peace Cookies from Sharon Wray

Mabon Bread

Mabon Bread from Pumpkin Spiced Life

Total Time: 25 min.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

Embrace Seasonal Ingredients

Make the most of fall’s bounty by using fresh, seasonal ingredients in your recipes. Not only do they taste better, but they also support local farmers and reduce your carbon footprint.

Don’t Skimp on Spices

Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and sage are the heart of fall cooking. Be generous with them to enhance the flavors of your dishes and create that warm, cozy feeling everyone loves.

Balance Flavors and Textures

Great fall recipes often combine sweet, savory, and earthy flavors with a mix of textures. Aim to balance these elements in your cooking to make each dish exciting and satisfying.