15 Irresistible Fall Potluck Appetizer Recipes Everyone Will Love

Fall is the perfect season for potlucks, gatherings, and cozy get-togethers with family and friends.

Appetizers set the tone for any meal, offering a delicious first impression while showcasing seasonal flavors.

From roasted vegetables and savory dips to bite-sized pastries and spiced treats, fall appetizers bring warmth, comfort, and festive flair to the table.

These 15 fall potluck appetizer recipes are easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for sharing.

They highlight autumn ingredients like pumpkin, butternut squash, apples, cranberries, and warm spices that celebrate the season.

Whether you’re hosting or attending, these appetizers are sure to impress and leave everyone craving more.

15 Irresistible Fall Potluck Appetizer Recipes Everyone Will Love

Fall potluck appetizers are a delicious way to celebrate seasonal flavors with friends and family.

These 15 recipes offer a variety of options—from savory bites to sweet and spiced treats—perfect for sharing at any gathering.

They’re easy to prepare, visually appealing, and packed with comforting fall flavors that everyone will enjoy.

With these appetizers, your potluck table will be filled with cozy, festive dishes that capture the essence of autumn.

These recipes make entertaining simple, fun, and delicious for every fall occasion.

Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts Bites

These bite-sized Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection and drizzled with a sweet maple glaze.

They’re crispy on the edges, tender in the center, and full of rich autumn flavor.

The maple glaze adds a touch of sweetness that balances the natural bitterness of the sprouts.

Perfect for potlucks, they’re easy to serve on a platter and always disappear quickly.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Roast for 20–25 minutes until golden and tender, stirring halfway through.
  4. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Heat until slightly thickened.
  5. Drizzle glaze over roasted Brussels sprouts and toss gently to coat.
  6. Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm.

Roasted Brussels sprouts develop a caramelized, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the maple glaze.

The subtle kick from red pepper flakes enhances the sweet-savory balance.

These bites are easy to make, visually appealing, and perfect for potluck tables.

A simple yet flavorful appetizer that highlights the best of fall produce.

Mini Butternut Squash and Sage Puff Pastries

Flaky puff pastry envelopes a creamy, savory butternut squash filling infused with fresh sage.

These bite-sized pastries are elegant, delicious, and perfect for fall potluck gatherings.

The sweetness of roasted squash pairs beautifully with earthy sage, creating a comforting autumn flavor.

Mini size makes them convenient to pick up and enjoy without utensils.

Ingredients:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 cup roasted butternut squash, mashed
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese
  • 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, combine mashed squash, cream cheese, sage, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Roll out puff pastry and cut into 2-inch squares.
  4. Place a small spoonful of squash mixture in the center of each square.
  5. Fold corners toward the center or create triangles, sealing edges gently.
  6. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 18–20 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Cool slightly before serving on a platter.

The puff pastry provides a buttery, flaky texture that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.

Fresh sage adds warmth and depth, enhancing the fall flavors.

These pastries are easy to make ahead and look stunning on a potluck table.

A sophisticated, savory appetizer that will impress guests and celebrate autumn flavors.

Cranberry Brie Crostini

This elegant appetizer combines creamy Brie, tart cranberries, and toasted baguette slices for a burst of fall flavor.

It’s sweet, savory, and perfect for entertaining during the autumn season.

The warm Brie melts slightly on the toasted crostini, balancing the tartness of the cranberry topping.

A drizzle of honey elevates the flavors and adds a touch of festive sweetness.

Ingredients:

  • 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch pieces
  • 8 oz Brie cheese, sliced
  • ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 teaspoons honey
  • Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
  2. Toast slices for 5–7 minutes until lightly golden.
  3. Top each slice with a small piece of Brie and return to the oven for 3–4 minutes until cheese softens.
  4. Spoon cranberry sauce over the melted Brie and drizzle lightly with honey.
  5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.

The combination of creamy Brie and tart cranberries creates a balanced, flavorful bite.

Honey adds a subtle sweetness that complements the tartness of the fruit.

Crostini are easy to prepare in batches and visually appealing for potlucks.

A festive, sophisticated appetizer that perfectly captures the flavors of fall.

Sweet Potato and Goat Cheese Rounds

These bite-sized appetizers feature roasted sweet potato slices topped with creamy goat cheese and fresh herbs.

They’re sweet, savory, and perfect for fall gatherings or potlucks.

The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes balances the tangy creaminess of goat cheese.

A sprinkle of thyme or rosemary adds an earthy aroma and vibrant color, making them irresistible.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, sliced into ½-inch rounds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 oz goat cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • Optional: drizzle of honey

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Toss sweet potato slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
  4. Spread a small amount of goat cheese on each roasted sweet potato round.
  5. Sprinkle with fresh thyme and drizzle with honey if desired.
  6. Serve warm or at room temperature on a platter.

Roasted sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness and a tender texture.

Goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy contrast that pairs beautifully with herbs.

These rounds are easy to make ahead and look elegant on a serving platter.

A flavorful, colorful appetizer that celebrates autumn produce perfectly.

Pumpkin Hummus with Pita Chips

This seasonal hummus blends roasted pumpkin puree with chickpeas, tahini, and warm spices.

It’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect for dipping pita chips or fresh vegetables at a fall potluck.

Pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and autumnal flavor, while cumin and cinnamon create depth and warmth.

Mini pita triangles or veggie sticks make it easy for guests to enjoy.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • ¼ cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Pita chips or veggie sticks for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, combine pumpkin puree, chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, cumin, and cinnamon.
  2. Process until smooth, adding a little water if needed for creaminess.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Transfer to a serving bowl and drizzle with olive oil if desired.
  5. Serve with pita chips or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Pumpkin adds smoothness and subtle autumn sweetness.

Spices like cinnamon and cumin create a warm, flavorful profile that’s perfect for fall.

This hummus is easy to prepare, healthy, and visually appealing for a potluck.

A creamy, spiced appetizer that’s perfect for sharing during autumn gatherings.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

This festive cheese ball combines cream cheese, shredded cheddar, cranberries, and pecans for a flavorful fall appetizer.

It’s tangy, creamy, and crunchy all at once, perfect for spreading on crackers at potlucks.

The cranberries add tart sweetness while pecans provide crunch and nutty richness.

Mini crackers or sliced baguette make serving easy and convenient for guests.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • ½ cup pecans, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • Crackers or sliced baguette for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, mix cream cheese and shredded cheddar until smooth.
  2. Fold in chopped cranberries and thyme.
  3. Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands or a piece of plastic wrap.
  4. Roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans until evenly coated.
  5. Chill for at least 1 hour to firm up.
  6. Serve with crackers or sliced baguette on a platter.

Cranberries provide tartness while pecans add crunch and rich flavor.

The creamy cheese mixture balances the textures for a perfect bite.

This cheese ball is easy to prepare ahead and makes a beautiful centerpiece for a potluck.

A festive, flavorful appetizer that will impress guests and celebrate fall flavors.

Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tartlets

These bite-sized tartlets feature sweet caramelized onions and nutty Gruyère cheese in a flaky pastry shell.

They’re savory, flavorful, and perfect for fall potluck gatherings or holiday parties.

The caramelized onions bring deep, rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with the melted cheese.

Mini size makes them easy to serve and enjoy in a single bite.

Ingredients:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions with salt and pepper until golden and caramelized, about 20 minutes.
  3. Roll out puff pastry and cut into 2-inch squares or circles.
  4. Place a spoonful of caramelized onions on each pastry square and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese and thyme.
  5. Bake for 15–18 minutes until pastry is golden and puffed.
  6. Cool slightly before serving.

Caramelized onions add sweet, deep flavor while Gruyère adds a nutty, creamy touch.

Flaky puff pastry provides texture contrast and elegance.

These tartlets are visually appealing and perfect for sharing at potlucks.

A savory, flavorful appetizer that embodies autumn in every bite.

Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Almonds

These sweet and savory bites feature dates stuffed with almonds and wrapped in smoky bacon.

They’re perfect for fall gatherings, offering a simple yet elegant appetizer.

The natural sweetness of the dates complements the salty bacon and crunchy almonds.

Mini size makes them easy to serve and enjoy in one bite, ideal for potlucks.

Ingredients:

  • 24 Medjool dates, pitted
  • 24 whole almonds
  • 12 slices bacon, cut in half
  • Toothpicks for securing

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Stuff each date with an almond.
  3. Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
  4. Place on baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until bacon is crisp.
  5. Remove toothpicks before serving or leave for easy handling.

Dates provide natural sweetness while almonds add a satisfying crunch.

Bacon introduces smoky, savory richness that perfectly balances the flavors.

These bites are easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

A sweet and savory appetizer that’s ideal for fall potluck tables.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip Cups

These individual cups feature creamy spinach and artichoke dip baked in phyllo or mini tart shells.

They’re perfect for parties, offering a convenient, single-serve appetizer packed with flavor.

The creamy dip is tangy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned, with spinach and artichokes adding texture and freshness.

Mini cups make them easy for guests to grab without utensils, ideal for potluck tables.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup chopped spinach, cooked and drained
  • 1 cup chopped artichoke hearts, drained
  • ½ cup cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 24 mini phyllo cups or tart shells

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Fold in chopped spinach and artichokes until evenly mixed.
  4. Spoon mixture into mini phyllo cups or tart shells.
  5. Bake for 12–15 minutes until heated through and slightly golden on top.
  6. Cool slightly before serving.

Spinach and artichokes add freshness and texture to the creamy, cheesy dip.

Mini cups make serving convenient and mess-free.

These dip cups are flavorful, visually appealing, and perfect for sharing.

A warm, creamy appetizer that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for fall gatherings.

Apple Brie Puff Pastry Bites

These mini bites feature sweet apple slices and creamy Brie wrapped in flaky puff pastry.

They’re perfect for fall potlucks, offering a sweet and savory combination in every bite.

The apples provide natural sweetness while Brie adds a rich, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the buttery pastry.

Mini size makes them easy to grab and enjoy without utensils.

Ingredients:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 apple, thinly sliced
  • 4 oz Brie cheese, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out puff pastry and cut into 2-inch squares.
  3. Place a slice of Brie and a slice of apple on each square.
  4. Drizzle lightly with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon.
  5. Fold corners to the center or create small parcels, pressing edges gently.
  6. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and puffed.
  7. Cool slightly before serving.

Apples add sweetness while Brie provides creamy richness.

Puff pastry creates a light, flaky texture that enhances the flavor combination.

These bites are visually appealing and perfect for sharing at potlucks.

A sweet and savory appetizer that captures the essence of fall in every bite.

Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Skewers

These colorful skewers feature roasted red peppers, feta cubes, and fresh basil for a simple yet elegant appetizer.

They’re perfect for fall gatherings, offering a fresh and flavorful bite.

The roasted peppers bring natural sweetness, while feta adds tangy creaminess and basil contributes aromatic freshness.

Skewers make them easy to serve and grab, ideal for potluck tables.

Ingredients:

  • 2 red bell peppers, roasted, peeled, and cut into strips
  • 8 oz feta cheese, cut into cubes
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • 24 small wooden skewers
  • Olive oil and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast red pepper strips for 20 minutes until tender.
  2. Allow peppers to cool and peel off skins.
  3. Assemble skewers with a piece of roasted pepper, a cube of feta, and a basil leaf.
  4. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and season with black pepper.
  5. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.

Roasted peppers provide sweetness while feta adds creamy tang.

Basil adds an aromatic, fresh note that complements the flavors beautifully.

These skewers are easy to assemble, visually appealing, and perfect for sharing.

A fresh, vibrant appetizer that celebrates autumn flavors in bite-sized form.

Sweet Corn and Jalapeño Fritters

These mini fritters combine sweet corn, jalapeños, and cheese for a crispy, flavorful appetizer.

They’re perfect for fall potlucks, offering a slightly spicy and savory bite.

Corn adds natural sweetness, while jalapeños provide a subtle heat and cheddar adds richness.

Mini size makes them easy to serve and enjoy in a single bite.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup grated cheddar cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup milk
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix corn, flour, cheddar, egg, jalapeño, milk, salt, and pepper until combined.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Spoon small portions of batter into the skillet, flattening slightly.
  4. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
  5. Drain on paper towels and serve warm on a platter.

Corn provides sweetness while jalapeños add subtle heat.

Cheddar creates a rich, savory flavor that complements the other ingredients.

These fritters are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for potluck sharing.

A bite-sized appetizer that combines spice, sweetness, and texture for fall gatherings.

Butternut Squash and Sage Crostini

These crostini feature roasted butternut squash topped with fresh sage and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

They’re perfect for fall gatherings, offering a warm, savory, and slightly sweet bite.

The roasted squash provides a tender, naturally sweet base while sage adds aromatic depth.

A crisp toasted baguette adds texture and makes them easy to serve at potlucks.

Ingredients:

  • 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 baguette, sliced and toasted
  • Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender.
  3. Mash lightly and stir in fresh sage.
  4. Spoon squash mixture onto toasted baguette slices.
  5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve immediately.

Roasted squash provides natural sweetness and a tender texture.

Fresh sage adds warm, earthy flavor that enhances the dish.

Crispy crostini make these easy to serve and enjoy in one bite.

A flavorful, seasonal appetizer perfect for fall potluck tables.

Spiced Pumpkin Hummus with Veggie Sticks

This creamy pumpkin hummus is blended with warm spices and served with crisp vegetable sticks.

It’s perfect for fall potlucks, offering a healthy and flavorful appetizer option.

Pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness while cumin, cinnamon, and paprika create a warm, autumnal flavor.

Vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers make dipping easy and convenient.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable sticks for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, combine pumpkin, chickpeas, tahini, garlic, cumin, cinnamon, and paprika.
  2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed for desired consistency.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve with fresh vegetable sticks.

Pumpkin provides creamy texture and subtle sweetness.

Spices add warmth and depth, perfect for autumn gatherings.

This hummus is healthy, flavorful, and visually appealing for potlucks.

A creamy, spiced appetizer that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Sausage and Apple Stuffed Mushrooms

These stuffed mushrooms feature a savory-sweet filling of sausage, apple, and herbs.

They’re perfect for fall gatherings, combining earthy mushrooms with sweet and savory flavors.

The sausage adds richness, while apple provides a hint of natural sweetness that complements the dish.

Mini size makes them easy to serve and enjoy in one bite, ideal for potlucks.

Ingredients:

  • 24 large button mushrooms, stems removed
  • 1/2 lb ground sausage
  • 1 apple, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a skillet, cook sausage, onion, and apple until sausage is browned and apple is tender.
  3. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
  4. Spoon sausage mixture into mushroom caps and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
  5. Bake for 20 minutes until mushrooms are tender and tops are golden.
  6. Cool slightly and serve warm on a platter.

Sausage provides savory richness while apple adds a natural sweetness.

Mushrooms offer an earthy base that complements the filling.

These stuffed mushrooms are flavorful, easy to make, and perfect for sharing.

A warm, savory appetizer that celebrates the tastes of fall perfectly.

Jessica T. Brown

Jessica T. Brown is the founder of KitchenHush.com, a platform born out of her deep love for cooking and the quiet joy found in the kitchen. From a young age, Jessica discovered that the kitchen wasn't just a place to prepare meals—it was a space for connection, creativity, and comfort. Inspired by those early memories, she created Kitchen Hush to share that experience with home cooks everywhere.

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