Introduction
As the crisp autumn air sets in, Ella Chef was inspired to create a selection of fall snacks that would capture the essence of the season. From the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg to the richness of apples and pumpkins, fall is the perfect time to enjoy comforting snacks that bring people together. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, watching football, or just enjoying the cool weather, these easy-to-make snacks are perfect for satisfying your cravings while celebrating the flavors of fall.
1. Pumpkin Spice Popcorn
Description:
A perfect blend of savory and sweet, this pumpkin spice popcorn is the ultimate snack for fall movie nights. The sweet, spiced coating is irresistible and pairs beautifully with the crunchy popcorn.
How to Make:
- Pop 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels.
- In a saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter and mix with 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt.
- Drizzle the mixture over the popcorn and toss well to coat.
- Spread the popcorn on a baking sheet and bake at 250°F (120°C) for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Let cool before serving.
2. Apple Cinnamon Chips
Description:
These crispy, baked apple chips are the perfect healthy snack with a sweet cinnamon twist. They’re great for dipping in caramel or enjoying on their own.
How to Make:
- Slice apples thinly, about 1/8 inch thick, and remove the seeds.
- Toss apple slices in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
- Lay the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 200°F (93°C) for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through until crispy.
- Let cool and enjoy with a side of caramel dipping sauce.
3. Sweet Potato Fries
Description:
Sweet potato fries are a fall favorite, offering a slightly sweet and savory bite. They’re simple to prepare and pair perfectly with a tangy dipping sauce.
How to Make:
- Peel and cut sweet potatoes into thin strips.
- Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon.
- Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve with a dipping sauce of your choice, like ranch or a spicy mayo.
4. Caramel Apple Slices
Description:
Caramel apples are a classic fall treat, and this version is a little more snack-friendly. Sliced apples are dipped in rich caramel and topped with crushed nuts or candy.
How to Make:
- Slice apples into wedges, discarding the cores.
- Melt 1 cup of caramel candies with 2 tablespoons of milk in the microwave.
- Dip each apple slice into the melted caramel and top with crushed nuts, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips.
- Let the caramel harden before serving.
5. Mini Pumpkin Quesadillas
Description:
Mini pumpkin quesadillas are a savory fall snack with a hint of sweetness. They’re easy to make and perfect for serving at a fall party or for an after-school treat.
How to Make:
- Spread a thin layer of canned pumpkin puree on a tortilla.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
- Add a small handful of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works well).
- Fold the tortilla in half and cook in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, until crispy and golden.
- Cut into wedges and serve with sour cream or salsa.
6. Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Almonds
Description:
Warm, cinnamon-sugar roasted almonds are the perfect snack for fall. They’re easy to prepare and have a deliciously fragrant aroma that fills your home.
How to Make:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, toss 2 cups of raw almonds with 1/4 cup of honey, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Spread the almonds on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Let cool before serving.
7. Butternut Squash Hummus
Description:
Butternut squash hummus is a creamy, savory dip with a touch of sweetness from the squash. It’s a fun and healthy alternative to traditional hummus, and it pairs perfectly with fall veggies or pita chips.
How to Make:
- Roast 1 cup of butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes until soft.
- In a food processor, blend the roasted squash with 1 can of chickpeas, 1/4 cup of tahini, 1 garlic clove, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of cumin.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Serve with veggies or pita chips.
8. Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
Description:
These moist, spiced muffins are a perfect fall treat. With a rich, cream cheese filling in the center, they’re ideal for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
How to Make:
- In a bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 2 eggs, and 1/4 cup of oil.
- Stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until combined.
- Spoon half of the batter into muffin cups, add a dollop of cream cheese filling, and top with the remaining batter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until golden.
9. Fall Trail Mix
Description:
This seasonal trail mix combines sweet and salty elements with a variety of fall-themed ingredients like candy corn, nuts, and dried fruits.
How to Make:
- In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of salted peanuts, 1 cup of roasted pumpkin seeds, 1 cup of dried cranberries, 1/2 cup of candy corn, and 1/2 cup of caramel bits.
- Stir well and portion into snack-sized bags for easy grab-and-go fall treats.
10. Cheddar and Apple Crostini
Description:
This savory and sweet crostini is perfect for an appetizer or light fall snack. The tangy apples pair perfectly with the sharp cheddar, creating a flavorful bite.
How to Make:
- Slice a baguette and toast the pieces in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
- Top each crostini with a slice of cheddar cheese and a thin slice of green apple.
- Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon before serving.
Conclusion
Ella Chef’s fall snacks are perfect for cozy gatherings, football game days, or simply embracing the flavors of the season. From sweet treats like pumpkin spice popcorn to savory bites like butternut squash hummus, these snacks offer something for every taste. With the warm spices and comforting ingredients of fall, these snacks are sure to make any occasion feel extra special. So, gather your friends and family, and enjoy these delicious seasonal treats all season long!