15 Delicious Fall Harvest Dessert Recipes You Must Try

Fall is the perfect season to indulge in warm, comforting, and flavorful desserts.

The harvest season brings an abundance of seasonal ingredients like apples, pumpkins, pears, cranberries, and spices that make desserts unforgettable.

From pies and crisps to tarts and puddings, fall desserts are all about rich flavors and cozy textures.

These 15 fall harvest dessert recipes showcase the best seasonal ingredients, celebrating autumn with every bite.

Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, enjoying a quiet night in, or baking for family and friends, these desserts are perfect for any occasion.

Using ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, maple syrup, and ginger elevates the natural sweetness of fruits and vegetables.

These recipes are designed to be approachable yet impressive, suitable for beginner bakers and seasoned dessert enthusiasts alike.

Indulge in the flavors of the season and embrace the cozy spirit of fall through these delightful desserts.

15 Delicious Fall Harvest Dessert Recipes You Must Try

Fall harvest desserts are a delicious way to celebrate the season and its bounty.

These 15 recipes feature seasonal fruits, vegetables, and warm spices, making each dessert comforting, flavorful, and memorable.

From pies and crisps to custards, puddings, and tarts, these recipes offer variety, sweetness, and autumnal charm.

They are perfect for family dinners, festive gatherings, or enjoying a cozy evening at home.

Using seasonal ingredients ensures freshness, vibrant flavors, and a true taste of autumn in every bite.

These desserts are easy to prepare, visually appealing, and guaranteed to delight anyone who loves fall flavors.

With this collection, you can enjoy the magic of the harvest season through indulgent, home-baked desserts.

Classic Pumpkin Pie with Spiced Whipped Cream

This classic pumpkin pie is a staple of fall, featuring a creamy pumpkin filling infused with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

A buttery, flaky crust adds the perfect base, while a dollop of spiced whipped cream elevates the dessert.

It’s perfect for Thanksgiving, autumn gatherings, or cozy evenings at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 9-inch pie crust, unbaked
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Whipped cream, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, spices, heavy cream, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Pour the filling into the prepared crust. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 40–45 minutes until the filling is set.
4. Allow the pie to cool completely before serving. Top with spiced whipped cream if desired.

This classic pumpkin pie is creamy, warmly spiced, and perfectly balanced with a flaky crust.

The combination of pumpkin and aromatic fall spices makes it a comforting seasonal dessert.

It’s ideal for holiday tables, family gatherings, or enjoying with a cup of coffee on a crisp autumn day.

Apple Crisp with Maple Oat Topping

This apple crisp combines tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a crunchy oat and maple topping, creating a warm, comforting dessert.

The natural sweetness of the apples pairs beautifully with the buttery, crisp topping for a satisfying autumn treat.

It’s perfect for after-dinner desserts, cozy nights, or fall parties.

Ingredients:

• 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ¾ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, toss apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
2. In a separate bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, melted butter, and maple syrup. Mix until crumbly.
3. Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apples. Bake for 40–45 minutes until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
4. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

This apple crisp is tender, sweet, and warmly spiced with a crisp maple-oat topping.

The combination of soft baked apples and crunchy topping creates a comforting autumn dessert.

It’s easy to make, visually appealing, and perfect for family dinners or seasonal celebrations.

Pear and Cranberry Galette with Almond Glaze

This rustic galette features tender pears and tart cranberries wrapped in a flaky pastry crust.

A drizzle of almond glaze adds a sweet, nutty finish, making it a visually stunning fall dessert.

It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or cozy autumn evenings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pie crust or puff pastry sheet
• 3 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
• ½ cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 egg, beaten, for egg wash
• 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 teaspoon milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, toss pear slices and cranberries with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Arrange the fruit mixture in the center of the crust, leaving a 2-inch border.
3. Fold the edges of the crust over the fruit, brushing with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sliced almonds. Bake for 35–40 minutes until the crust is golden.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk to make the glaze. Drizzle over the cooled galette.

This pear and cranberry galette is sweet, tart, and nutty with a perfectly flaky crust.

The combination of juicy pears, tart cranberries, and almond glaze makes it a standout fall dessert.

It’s rustic, elegant, and ideal for sharing at family gatherings or autumn celebrations

Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

These spiced pumpkin cheesecake bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy pumpkin filling infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

They’re perfect for fall gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy dessert after dinner.

The dessert is rich, flavorful, and easier to serve than a traditional cheesecake.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups pumpkin puree
• 1 ½ cups cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix until fully combined.
3. Pour the pumpkin mixture over the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes until set.
4. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.

These spiced pumpkin cheesecake bars are creamy, flavorful, and perfectly spiced for fall.

The combination of buttery crust and rich pumpkin filling makes them indulgent yet approachable.

They’re ideal for holiday desserts, potlucks, or a cozy autumn treat.

Caramel Apple Tart

This caramel apple tart features tender apple slices arranged over a flaky puff pastry crust, drizzled with rich homemade caramel.

A sprinkle of cinnamon enhances the natural sweetness of the apples, making it a quintessential fall dessert.

It’s perfect for festive gatherings, brunches, or a special treat on a crisp autumn day.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 3–4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange apple slices in overlapping rows, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
2. Sprinkle apples with sugar and cinnamon. Fold the edges of the pastry over the apples.
3. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the pastry is golden and the apples are tender.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar, cream, vanilla, and salt. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened. Drizzle caramel over the baked tart.

This caramel apple tart is sweet, tender, and buttery with a rich caramel finish.

The combination of flaky pastry, cinnamon-spiced apples, and caramel makes it irresistible.

It’s perfect for autumn brunches, family gatherings, or a festive fall dessert.

Pumpkin Spice Pudding with Gingersnap Crust

This creamy pumpkin spice pudding features warm autumn spices layered over a crunchy gingersnap cookie crust.

It’s a simple yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for fall dinners or casual get-togethers.

The dessert is rich, spiced, and comforting, embodying the flavors of the season.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups gingersnap cookies, crushed
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Whipped cream, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix crushed gingersnap cookies with melted butter and press into the bottom of individual serving dishes or a small baking dish.
2. In a saucepan, whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cornstarch, and spices over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 7–10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Pour the pudding over the gingersnap crust.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Serve with whipped cream if desired.

This pumpkin spice pudding is creamy, warmly spiced, and perfectly balanced with a crunchy gingersnap crust.

The combination of smooth pumpkin filling and crisp cookie base makes it an ideal fall dessert.

It’s easy to prepare, visually appealing, and perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy nights at home

Maple Pecan Tart

This maple pecan tart features a buttery crust filled with a rich, caramel-like maple filling topped with toasted pecans.

The combination of sweet maple and crunchy pecans creates a classic autumn dessert perfect for the harvest season.

It’s ideal for holiday gatherings, cozy dinners, or as a centerpiece for a fall dessert table.

Ingredients:

• 1 9-inch pie crust, unbaked
• 1 cup maple syrup
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups pecans, chopped or halved
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie crust in a 9-inch tart or pie pan and set aside.
2. In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
3. Stir in pecans and pour the mixture into the prepared crust.
4. Bake for 35–40 minutes until the filling is set and slightly golden. Let cool before slicing.

This maple pecan tart is sweet, nutty, and deeply flavorful.

The rich maple filling pairs perfectly with the crunchy pecans and buttery crust.

It’s elegant, festive, and ideal for celebrating the flavors of fall.

Cranberry Apple Crisp Bars

These crisp bars feature a tender oat base topped with spiced apple and tart cranberries, baked until golden and chewy.

They’re perfect for dessert, brunch, or as a snack to enjoy the flavors of the fall harvest.

The combination of tart cranberries and sweet apples with a crunchy topping makes them irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups rolled oats
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups peeled and chopped apples
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Press half the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In another bowl, toss chopped apples and cranberries with sugar and nutmeg. Spread evenly over the base layer.
3. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the fruit. Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
4. Let cool before cutting into bars and serving.

These cranberry apple crisp bars are chewy, tender, and warmly spiced.

The combination of tart cranberries, sweet apples, and crisp oat topping creates a perfect autumn treat.

They’re easy to make, portable, and ideal for fall gatherings or dessert tables.

Spiced Pear Upside-Down Cake

This elegant pear upside-down cake features caramelized pears on top of a soft, spiced cake base.

Cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg enhance the flavor of the pears, creating a warm and festive dessert for fall.

It’s perfect for family dinners, holiday celebrations, or a cozy autumn afternoon treat.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet, melt butter and brown sugar. Pour into the bottom of a greased 9-inch round cake pan and arrange pear slices on top.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
3. In another bowl, beat sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually mix in dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk.
4. Pour batter over pears and bake for 40–45 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool slightly before inverting onto a serving plate.

This spiced pear upside-down cake is tender, moist, and warmly spiced with caramelized pear topping.

The combination of soft cake and sweet pears creates a visually stunning and flavorful fall dessert.

It’s perfect for autumn celebrations, holiday dinners, or simply indulging in seasonal flavors

Caramel Pumpkin Bread Pudding

This warm pumpkin bread pudding features cubes of crusty bread soaked in a spiced pumpkin custard and drizzled with rich caramel.

It’s the perfect cozy dessert for autumn evenings, combining creamy custard, tender bread, and seasonal spices.

Ideal for holiday gatherings, brunches, or a comforting fall treat after dinner.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 cups milk
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Caramel sauce, for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, milk, sugars, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Place bread cubes in the prepared baking dish and pour the pumpkin custard over them. Gently press to soak all the bread.
4. Bake for 45–50 minutes until custard is set and the top is golden brown. Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.

This caramel pumpkin bread pudding is rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced for fall.

The combination of custardy bread and warm pumpkin flavors creates a comforting autumn dessert.

It’s ideal for sharing with family, friends, or enjoying on a cozy evening.

Apple Cider Donut Cake

This spiced apple cider donut cake brings all the flavors of fall into a single, moist dessert cake.

Cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider infuse the cake with warmth, and a sugar-cinnamon topping adds a nostalgic, sweet finish.

Perfect for brunch, dessert, or any autumn gathering.

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon, for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well. Gradually add flour mixture and apple cider, mixing until smooth.
4. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the top before serving.

This apple cider donut cake is moist, flavorful, and warmly spiced.

The combination of apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg brings the essence of fall into every bite.

It’s perfect for brunch, dessert, or enjoying with a cup of coffee on a crisp autumn day.

Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

This moist bundt cake combines tart cranberries with fragrant orange zest, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

A simple glaze enhances the cake’s natural flavors, making it a festive and elegant fall dessert.

It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or special autumn occasions.

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Zest of 2 oranges
• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons orange juice, for glaze

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla and orange zest. Gradually add flour mixture alternating with buttermilk. Fold in cranberries.
4. Pour batter into prepared bundt pan and bake for 50–60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Mix powdered sugar and orange juice for glaze and drizzle over cooled cake.

This cranberry orange bundt cake is moist, festive, and full of vibrant autumn flavors.

The tart cranberries and citrusy orange zest create a balanced and delightful fall dessert.

It’s perfect for family gatherings, seasonal celebrations, or enjoying with a warm beverage.

Maple Pecan Blondies

These blondies are rich, buttery, and infused with sweet maple syrup and crunchy toasted pecans.

They’re a perfect fall treat, easy to make and ideal for dessert tables, lunchboxes, or cozy autumn snacking.

The combination of soft, chewy blondie texture with toasted pecans makes each bite irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup maple syrup
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. Fold in chopped pecans.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and set. Let cool before cutting into squares.

These maple pecan blondies are chewy, sweet, and perfectly nutty.

The maple syrup enhances the warm autumn flavors, making them an ideal seasonal treat.

They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, dessert tables, or sharing with friends and family.

Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

These carrot cake cupcakes are moist, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and studded with grated carrots and walnuts.

Topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting, they’re the perfect handheld dessert for fall celebrations.

They’re great for parties, potlucks, or enjoying a cozy treat at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups grated carrots
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• 1 cup cream cheese frosting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, beat oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in carrots and walnuts. Gradually mix in dry ingredients.
4. Divide batter evenly into muffin cups and bake for 20–22 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Frost with cream cheese frosting once cooled.

These carrot cake cupcakes are moist, warmly spiced, and topped with creamy frosting.

The combination of grated carrots, walnuts, and spices makes them a perfect fall dessert.

They’re easy to serve, festive, and ideal for family or holiday celebrations.

Cinnamon Apple Galette

This rustic cinnamon apple galette features tender, spiced apples wrapped in a flaky pastry crust.

A sprinkle of sugar and a light egg wash create a golden, crisp finish, making it perfect for autumn desserts.

It’s great for family gatherings, brunch, or simply indulging in cozy fall flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry or pie dough
• 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 egg, beaten, for egg wash
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar, for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out pastry on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Toss apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
2. Arrange apple mixture in the center of the pastry, leaving a 2-inch border. Fold edges over the fruit. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle coarse sugar on top.
3. Bake for 35–40 minutes until pastry is golden and apples are tender. Let cool slightly before serving.

This cinnamon apple galette is sweet, tender, and warmly spiced.

The flaky crust and soft baked apples make it a perfect cozy fall dessert.

It’s simple, elegant, and ideal for enjoying the flavors of the autumn harvest.