Nothing beats homemade sweets. These three simple recipes are simple to make and perfect for a fall gathering or game day.

‍

1. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

These cookies combine two fall staples: apples and cinnamon. They’re chewy, lightly spiced, and perfect for a midday treat. To make them, start by creaming together ½ cup of butter with ½ cup of brown sugar. Add one egg and a splash of vanilla. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of baking soda. Mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, then fold in 1 cup of finely chopped apples. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.

‍

Ingredient List

  • ½ cup butter, softened
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup finely chopped apples (peeled)

    • ‍

    ‍

    2. Pumpkin Spice Mug Cake

    Pumpkin spice is the quintessential flavor of fall, and this mug cake is perfect when you want a quick sweet treat. In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together ¼ cup of flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, ¼ teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg. Add 2 tablespoons of canned pumpkin puree, 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, and 1 tablespoon of milk. Stir until smooth. Microwave for about 60-90 seconds, or until the cake is cooked through. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

    ‍

    Ingredient List

  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (white or brown)
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of cinnamon
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons canned pumpkin puree
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
  • Additional cinnamon (optional, for garnish)

    • ‍

    ‍

    3. Caramel Pecan Bites

    For a rich fall treat, these no-bake caramel pecan are the perfect option. Start by laying out mini pretzels on a baking sheet. Melt soft caramels and spoon a small amount over each pretzel, then press a pecan half into the caramel. Let them cool and harden, then drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a finishing touch. Store them in the fridge for a bite-sized treat whenever you crave something sweet.

    ‍

    Ingredient List

  • Mini pretzels (about 24 pieces)
  • 24 soft caramels (such as Kraft caramels)
  • 24 pecan halves
  • ½ cup dark chocolate, melted (for drizzling)

    • ‍

    Cover Photo by Food Photographer Jennifer Pallian