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33 Fall Desserts That Make You Wonder Why Pumpkin Gets All the Attention

Pumpkin walks into every dessert roundup and acts like it owns the place, but these 33 other treats are ready to crash the party. This mix of autumn-inspired sweets proves there’s more to dessert this time of year than a certain orange squash. From warm baked goods to cool surprises, the options will leave you rethinking every potluck, holiday, or dinner you’ve got planned.

Six pumpkin whoopie pies with cream filling are arranged on a gray plate, viewed from above. Two cinnamon sticks are visible at the edge of the plate.
Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

Four pumpkin cinnamon rolls are on a wooden board, with one roll served on a white plate.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

You might change your breakfast routine after tasting Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing. The dough is tender and spiced with pumpkin, while swirls of cinnamon offer a pleasing contrast. Generous amounts of tangy cream cheese icing complete each roll and make them perfect for sharing. Each batch is easy to prepare and fills the kitchen with a comforting scent.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

Nanna’s Apple Cake

An apple cake on a white plate with cinnamon sticks.
Nanna’s Apple Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Few desserts hold nostalgia like Nanna’s Apple Cake, which combines fresh apples and gentle spice in every moist bite. Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels. The cake remains soft for days and serves well as a dessert or snack. A dusting of powdered sugar brings a gentle finishing touch without overpowering the apple flavor.
Get the Recipe: Nanna’s Apple Cake

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Copycat Crumbl Confetti Cake Cookies

A plate of Copycat Crumbl Confetti Cake Cookies topped with pink frosting and multicolored sprinkles sits on a wooden table.
Copycat Crumbl Confetti Cake Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Families reach for Copycat Crumbl Confetti Cake Cookies when craving celebration-inspired treats. Soft and chewy, these cookies mirror confetti cake with vibrant sprinkles and buttery flavor. Each bite delivers a lightly sweet taste that pairs well with milk or coffee. The recipe lends itself to group activities since kids enjoy adding the colorful sprinkles before baking.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Confetti Cake Cookies

Caramel Apple Sheet Cake

A baking tray filled with a layer of chopped apples coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Caramel Apple Sheet Cake. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Assembling Caramel Apple Sheet Cake is a straightforward way to please a crowd. Apples are blended with a moist cake base and then covered with smooth caramel glaze. The large format makes serving easy for gatherings, and leftovers taste just as good. Quick preparation and baking time allow anyone to whip up this cake without a hassle.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Sheet Cake

Pumpkin Spice Scones

Five Pumpkin Spice scones with vanilla glaze are arranged in a circle on a round metal cooling rack over a light-colored surface.
Pumpkin Spice Scones. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Weekend mornings get a treat from Pumpkin Spice Scones, which mix real pumpkin with warm spices for a balanced flavor. Crystal sugar sprinkled on top adds a welcome crunch to every bite. The texture is tender without being heavy, and these scones retain their nice shape after baking. Each batch pairs well with tea or coffee and satisfies without requiring much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Scones

Dutch Apple Pie Squares

Three pieces of Dutch Apple Pie Squares on a black slate plate.
Dutch Apple Pie Squares. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Recipes like Dutch Apple Pie Squares prove that apple pie doesn’t always need a traditional round crust. These squares offer layers of spiced apples, crumble topping, and flaky pastry in each serving. They’re conveniently portioned for sharing and packing in lunch boxes. Quick assembly and flexible ingredients mean you can switch apple varieties for different results.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Apple Pie Squares

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Pumpkin Muffins

A crumb-topped muffin sits on a white plate with a spoon; more muffins are in a baking tray in the background, next to a jar of brown sugar.
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Pumpkin Muffins. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Brunch tables often receive an upgrade with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Pumpkin Muffins on the menu. The batter blends spicy pumpkin flavor with pockets of cream cheese for a pleasant tang. Lightly moist and perfectly portioned, these muffins make a great grab-and-go snack or casual dessert. Preparation is simple, requiring only basic kitchen tools and minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Cream Cheese Pumpkin Muffins

Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie Cookies

A plate with several Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie cookies topped with a layer of peanut butter and a swirl of chocolate frosting.
Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Holiday trays get a boost from Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie Cookies, which combine brownie bases with peanut butter layers. Each cookie has an intense chocolate flavor and a tender texture reminiscent of brownies. A drizzle of chocolate tops off the peanut butter filling for a classic pairing. They’re simple to prepare, bake evenly, and always encourage requests for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie Cookies

Easy Pumpkin Turnovers

Three white plates with pumpkin turnovers topped with cinnamon sugar, on a rustic wooden table with utensils and autumn-themed decorations.
Easy Pumpkin Turnovers. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Family gatherings often benefit from Easy Pumpkin Turnovers made with flaky puff pastry and seasoned filling. The turnovers are baked until golden and offer a convenient handheld option for snacking. Pumpkin puree and spice work together to create a balanced sweetness. Minimal tools and ingredients allow even inexperienced bakers to make these pastries successfully.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Turnovers

Maple Pecan Pie Bars

A slice of maple pecan pie bar topped with chopped pecans sits on a floral-patterned plate.
Maple Pecan Pie Bars. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Perfect for potlucks, Maple Pecan Pie Bars combine classic pie flavors in a portable, easy-to-cut format. Layers of rich maple filling and crunchy pecans rest atop a sturdy base, making serving and clean-up less complicated. Each square holds together well and invites seconds. The flavors blend naturally, and they remain fresh for several days when stored properly.
Get the Recipe: Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Pumpkin Crunch Cake

A slice of Pumpkin Crunch Cake on a white plate, topped with whipped cream, with a checkered cloth beside it and a baking dish in the background.
Pumpkin Crunch Cake. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Get a layered experience from Pumpkin Crunch Cake, which offers soft cake on the bottom and crispy topping above. Pumpkin puree forms the foundation, while nuts and crumb mixture create a textural contrast. Simple instructions make assembly quick and approachable for any home baker. Each slice delivers distinct layers and convenient serving for events big or small.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Crunch Cake

Puff Pastry Apple Tart

A Puff Pastry Apple Tart topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and sprinkled with powdered sugar sits on a light green plate.
Puff Pastry Apple Tart. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Guests appreciate the elegance and ease of Puff Pastry Apple Tart, where thin apple slices rest on buttery pastry sheets. The tart comes together fast with minimal mess and looks impressive enough for special occasions. Glazing the apples after baking provides a glossy finish and subtle flavor enhancement. The combination of fruit and pastry bakes up crisp around the edges, offering a pleasing texture.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Apple Tart

Best Ever Pumpkin Bread

A loaf of glazed pumpkin bread with two slices cut sits on a wooden cutting board, surrounded by bowls containing glaze and orange puree.
Best Ever Pumpkin Bread. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Morning routines get a flavorful touch with Best Ever Pumpkin Bread, which yields a moist loaf with a gentle pumpkin accent. Straightforward instructions and minimal prep make it achievable for new bakers. A slice with coffee or cream cheese offers a quick snack choice. The bread remains soft and adapts well to add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, making it versatile all week.
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Pumpkin Bread

Fall Brownie Cupcake

Fall brownie cupcakes with whipped cream on a plate.
Fall Brownie Cupcake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dessert tables benefit from Fall Brownie Cupcake, marrying chocolate decadence with cupcake tenderness. The recipe is efficient and easy to follow, allowing for batch baking and freezing. A smooth top makes these cupcakes great candidates for additional toppings or frosting. They’re rich but balanced, providing both flavor and texture without overwhelming the palate.
Get the Recipe: Fall Brownie Cupcake

Brown Butter Apple Blondies

Two brown butter apple blondies were placed on a white surface.
Brown Butter Apple Blondies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Anyone seeking a comforting bar should try Brown Butter Apple Blondies, featuring a buttery base and chunks of real apple. The brown butter enriches flavor and brings out a roasted note in the dough. Blondies cut cleanly and stay moist for several days after baking. They make ideal treats for gatherings or simply to enjoy with an afternoon coffee.
Get the Recipe: Brown Butter Apple Blondies

Buttermilk Banana Cake

Banana-Buttermilk Cake on a platter.
Buttermilk Banana Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sliced and served at parties, Buttermilk Banana Cake stands out for its soft texture and mild sweetness. Overripe bananas blend smoothly into the batter, producing uniform moisture and flavor throughout. Topping options vary, from cream cheese frosting to simple powdered sugar. The cake keeps well and tastes just as good the next day, making it practical for busy schedules.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Banana Cake

Dutch Apple Danishes

Golden brown Dutch Apple Danishes, topped with a fruit and nut filling, drizzled with white icing, displayed on a dark baking sheet.
Dutch Apple Danishes. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Brunch spreads gain variety from Dutch Apple Danishes, which include flaky pastry, spiced apple filling, and delicate glaze. Assembly is manageable even for novice bakers thanks to basic pastry and filling techniques. The danishes bake up golden and are easy to portion for family or guests. Recipe flexibility allows for adjustments in spice or fruit as desired.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Apple Danishes

Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

A piece of Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake. sits on a plate with a fork. More cake is visible in the background on a wooden board.
Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Dessert lovers will appreciate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake, which merges layers of dense brownie with pumpkin accents. The process isn’t complicated, and the result is visually appealing thanks to its layered effect. Each piece serves up a lovely blend of chocolate and subtle pumpkin. Autumn-themed candies on top can add a touch of festive color for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies

A close-up of a large chocolate cookie sprinkled with coarse salt, placed on a decorative plate with pink rose patterns.
Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cookie jars feel special with Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies, produced by mixing rich chocolate dough with flakes of sea salt. The cookies balance sweetness and saltiness in every chew. Baking times are short and yield soft centers with crisp edges. These cookies store well in airtight containers and suit all ages.
Get the Recipe: Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies

Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Pumpkin Snickerdoodles on a circle grey and blue plate.
Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Baking sheets fill quickly with Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies, known for their chewy texture and hint of spice. Pumpkin puree changes the classic snickerdoodle, providing gentle warmth and bright color. Rolling in cinnamon sugar gives each cookie a familiar finish that appeals to many. Straightforward preparation means you can whip these up in no time.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Turtle Brownies

A piece of Turtle Brownie with ice cream on a plate.
Turtle Brownies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet cravings are managed easily by Turtle Brownies, which combine gooey caramel, chocolate, and pecans over a fudgy brownie base. Each square is easy to cut and serves well at parties or potlucks. Layers bake together in one pan, simplifying cleanup. The result invites sharing and pairs well with ice cream or coffee for extra enjoyment.
Get the Recipe: Turtle Brownies

Easy Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream

An Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream, served in a rectangular dish, topped with two scoops of vanilla ice cream and a caramel drizzle, accompanied by a portion on a plate beside it.
Easy Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Friends and family gravitate toward Easy Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream for its combination of warm fruit and cool topping. Crisp oat mixture roasts golden while apples soften underneath. Vanilla ice cream adds contrast and transforms each serving into a special treat. Preparation is fuss-free and adaptable to whatever apple type is on hand.
Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream

White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

A jar of White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies next to lavender flowers.
White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Baking trays stand out with White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies, which reach a soft texture and visually appealing crackled tops. White chocolate chips embedded in the dough add creamy notes without being overwhelming. Quick to assemble and bake, they are great for last-minute guests or gifts. The cookies maintain softness for several days and match well with coffee or tea.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Pecan Pie Brownies

A close-up of two pecan brownies on a slate surface, showing the rich, chocolatey interior and a topping of chopped pecans.
Pecan Pie Brownies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Dessert menus get richer when Pecan Pie Brownies appear, layering fudgy brownies underneath gooey pecan topping. Each piece fits easily into lunchboxes or party platters, handling slicing and storage well. Pecans add crunch and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with dense chocolate. Preparation requires little effort, and the bars are reliably popular at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Brownies

Mini Biscoff Cheesecake

A white plate with strawberries and mini biscoff cheesecakes.
Mini Biscoff Cheesecake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Guests welcome Mini Biscoff Cheesecake after dinner, thanks to its spiced cookie base and creamy filling. Individual portions make serving smooth and reduce mess at events. The subtle flavor of Biscoff cookies blends harmoniously with traditional cheesecake batter. Chilling time is minima,l so you can have these ready quickly for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Mini Biscoff Cheesecake

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

An apple cinnamon roll on a plate with a spoon.
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Family breakfasts get upgraded with Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls, combining tender dough with spiced apples inside swirls. Rolling and slicing these rolls is a straightforward process for most bakers. The addition of apple filling makes the rolls moist and flavorful. A simple glaze tops off each piece, highlighting the classic pairing of cinnamon and apple.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans

A batch of Zucchini cookies with chocolate & pecan on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cookie recipes diversify with Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans, where shredded zucchini keeps each cookie soft and moist. Chocolate chips and pecans bring welcome richness and texture. The cookies bake evenly and store well for several days. These treats provide a creative way to use up extra zucchini in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans

German Chocolate Cupcakes

Close-up of German chocolate cupcake topped with coconut-pecan caramel and a swirl of chocolate buttercream.
German Chocolate Cupcakes. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Individual servings like German Chocolate Cupcakes offer a chocolate cake base topped with sweet coconut-pecan frosting. These cupcakes hold shape and moisture for days, making them a reliable choice for birthdays or casual meals. Recipe steps are approachable with basic mixing and baking techniques. Each cupcake combines distinct layers for flavor in every bite.
Get the Recipe: German Chocolate Cupcakes

Pumpkin Blondies

A white rectangular plate with pieces of pumpkin blondies.
Pumpkin Blondies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Snack tables benefit from Pumpkin Blondies, which balance pumpkin puree with vanilla and brown sugar in chewy bars. Simple mixing and baking streamline the process for busy home cooks. The bars cut easily and keep for several days after baking. Occasional mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts increase variety and appeal.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Blondies

Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles

Three brown butter snickerdoodle cookies arranged on a white surface, sprinkled with sea salt flakes, with a white cloth and purple flowers on the side.
Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cookie lovers choose Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles for inventive flavor and smooth texture. Brown butter in the dough enhances depth, while salted caramel bits create a rich sweetness. Rolling these cookies in cinnamon sugar delivers classic appeal. Consistent results make them a favorite for sharing with friends or at bake sales.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles

No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

A slice of no-bake pumpkin cheesecake delight on a white plate, partially eaten with a fork resting on the plate.
No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Time-saving desserts like No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake skip the oven and finish quickly in the refrigerator. Creamy pumpkin and classic spices combine with a sturdy graham crust. The texture remains smooth and light, perfect for after meals. Individual servings work well for events or last-minute gatherings.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Apple Fritter Bread

Three slices of apple fritter bread on a white plate.
Apple Fritter Bread. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Morning snacks transform with Apple Fritter Bread, blending chunks of apple in quick-bread batter for moist results. Swirls of cinnamon offer a classic flavor profile, and a simple glaze adds flair after baking. Slicing this bread is easy, and each piece remains tender. The recipe is approachable for all skill levels and makes use of everyday pantry items.
Get the Recipe: Apple Fritter Bread

Pumpkin Dump Cake

A slice of layered pumpkin dessert topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on a white plate.
Pumpkin Dump Cake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Hosting gets simpler with Pumpkin Dump Cake, layering pumpkin puree, spices, and cake mix for an impressive dessert in minimal time. No mixing bowl is required, as ingredients are dumped straight into the pan and baked until set. The top turns golden and slightly crisp, contrasting nicely with the soft pumpkin base. Easy serving and storage mean this cake remains a popular choice for impromptu entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Dump Cake

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