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Home » Recipe Collections

29 apple desserts that are perfect for early fall

Published: Sep 22, 2026 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Early fall is the perfect time to bring fresh apples into the kitchen, especially when they’re at their seasonal best. These apple desserts range from comforting classics to simple treats that are perfect for sharing. With warm spices, sweet fruit, and plenty of cozy flavors, there’s something here for every dessert lover. Keep these recipes handy whenever you’re craving a taste of fall.

Mini Apple Pies

An overhead image of a stack of mini apple pies.
Mini Apple Pies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These small pies bake in less time than a full pie and are easy to share. They work as an apple dessert that fits moments when you want something lighter in portion but still tied to traditional flavors.
Get the Recipe: Mini Apple Pies

Apple Slab Pie

Someone holding a slice of Apple Slab Pie.
Apple Slab Pie. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This slab pie uses a sheet pan approach and finishes with a crisp glaze, making it suitable for serving groups. It works as an apple dessert when you want something straightforward to slice and present during gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Apple Slab Pie

Cinnamon Apple Swirl Cake

A slice of Cinnamon Apple Swirl Cake on a plate with a fork.
Cinnamon Apple Swirl Cake. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This cake is simple to prepare and uses fresh apples for depth. It functions well as an apple dessert that fits autumn baking routines without requiring complex steps.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Apple Swirl Cake

Apple Ginger Cake

An image of Apple Ginger Cake.
Apple Ginger Cake. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This cake features apples layered over a soft sponge and is simple to assemble. It works as an apple dessert that also doubles as an afternoon slice with coffee, offering a shift from heavier seasonal cakes.
Get the Recipe: Apple Ginger Cake

Caramel Apple Dump Cake

A bowl of cake with ice cream on top.
Caramel Apple Dump Cake. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This dump cake comes together with pantry staples and one extra ingredient to finish it off. It works as an apple dessert that leans on the natural comfort of apples without needing precise pastry skills.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Lattice Crust Vegan Apple Pie

An overview of Lattice Crust Vegan Apple Pie with fresh apples on the side.
Lattice Crust Vegan Apple Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

This version uses plant-based ingredients to achieve the same flaky crust and spiced apple filling as traditional styles. It remains an apple dessert that suits many preferences at the table, keeping the familiar flavor.
Get the Recipe: Lattice Crust Vegan Apple Pie

Dutch Apple Bread

An image of Dutch Apple Bread slices with apples on the background.
Dutch Apple Bread. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This loaf includes a streusel layer and icing that enhance each slice. It serves as an apple dessert that can move between breakfast and dessert without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Apple Bread

Easy Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes

Top view of Easy Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes.
Easy Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

These shortcakes use cinnamon apples and sponge with a splash of whiskey for depth. They make an apple dessert that stands apart when you want something distinct from typical fall pies.
Get the Recipe: Easy Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes

Apple Crisp Without Oats

A plate of Apple Crisp Without Oats.
Apple Crisp Without Oats. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

This crisp skips oats and uses a simple buttery topping. It functions as an apple dessert that is easy to assemble and works well for a straightforward bake.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp Without Oats

Mini Caramel Apple Cheesecakes with Streusel Topping

Three Mini Caramel Apple Cheesecakes with Streusel Topping on a wooden board with green apples.
Mini Caramel Apple Cheesecakes with Streusel Topping. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

These mini cheesecakes incorporate spiced apples and a streusel topping. They function as an apple dessert that is easy to serve in small portions at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Mini Caramel Apple Cheesecakes with Streusel Topping

Iced Apple Cookies

Apple oatmeal cookies with icing and apples on a white plate.
Iced Apple Cookies. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

These cookies combine apples, cinnamon, and icing for a soft finish. They work as an apple dessert that pairs easily with an after-dinner coffee.
Get the Recipe: Iced Apple Cookies

Gluten-Free Apple Crisp

An image of Gluten-Free Honey Apple Crisp.
Gluten-Free Apple Crisp. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This crisp uses tender apples under a buttery topping for a simple bake. It makes an apple dessert that avoids the time and technique needed for pie crusts.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Apple Crisp

Gluten Free Vegan Gingerbread Apple Cake

Gluten Free Vegan Gingerbread Apple Cake. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This cake mixes familiar seasonal spices with apples for a balanced bake. It works as an apple dessert for those looking beyond pumpkin-based sweets.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free Vegan Gingerbread Apple Cake

Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Apple Crumble Cheesecake. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

This cheesecake incorporates apples and a crumble topping for a richer style. It serves as an apple dessert that feels slightly more indulgent than standard fall treats.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Maple Baked Apples

Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Maple Baked Apples. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

These baked apples use maple syrup and cook quickly in an air fryer. They work as an apple dessert when time is limited and simplicity matters.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Maple Baked Apples

The Best Apple Pie Cookies

The Best Apple Pie Cookies. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

These cookies feature brown sugar, molasses, and spiced apple filling for a soft texture. They work as an apple dessert that gives variety beyond standard pies.
Get the Recipe: The Best Apple Pie Cookies

Apple Cheddar Pie

Apple Cheddar Pie. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This pie includes cheese baked into the crust for a balanced flavor alongside the apples. It functions as an apple dessert that plays with both sweet and savory notes.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cheddar Pie

Classic Apple Cake

Classic Apple Cake. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This cake uses a short ingredient list and minimal preparation. It works as an apple dessert that suits any occasion due to its straightforward approach.
Get the Recipe: Classic Apple Cake

Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins

Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

These muffins use apples and a crumb topping for gentle texture and flavor. They make an apple dessert that steps away from pie format while still highlighting apples.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins

Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

A slice of apple pie stuffed cheesecake on a plate with a spoon.
Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This cheesecake layers traditional cheesecake flavor with spiced apples. It stands as an apple dessert that contrasts textures while staying recognizable in flavor.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

Apple Pie Cupcakes

Apple Pie Cupcakes. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

These cupcakes pair a vanilla base with apple filling for a semi-homemade result. They serve as an apple dessert that travels well and works for group settings.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cupcakes

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

This recipe uses cinnamon roll dough as the crust, making assembly quick. It works as an apple dessert when convenience is important but flavor still matters.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Upside-Down Puff Pastry Apple Tart

Upside-Down Puff Pastry Apple Tart. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These puff pastry tart-style apples bake into a glossy finish once inverted. They serve as an apple dessert that looks polished without requiring extra skill.
Get the Recipe: Upside-Down Puff Pastry Apple Tart

Air Fryer Apricot Apple Cinnamon Dumplings

Air Fryer Apricot Apple Cinnamon Dumplings. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

These dumplings combine apples and apricots in pastry with simple spices. They work as an apple dessert that comes together quickly and breaks away from heavier fall flavors.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apricot Apple Cinnamon Dumplings

Apple-Cranberry Puff Pastry Tarts

Apple-Cranberry Puff Pastry Tarts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These tarts use puff pastry with fruit filling for a crisp and lightly sweet result. They make an apple dessert that feels lighter than traditional pie formats.
Get the Recipe: Apple-Cranberry Puff Pastry Tarts

Vegan Apple Cookies with Oatmeal

Close-up of vegan apple cookies with oatmeal on a wooden board.
Vegan Apple Cookies with Oatmeal. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

These cookies combine apples, cinnamon, and oats for a hearty texture. They function as an apple dessert that retains a homemade feel without being heavy.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Apple Cookies with Oatmeal

Apple Pie

A slice of apple pie on a plate with a scoop of ice cream.
Apple Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This pie uses familiar pantry ingredients to create a fresh-baked result. It serves as an apple dessert that stands comfortably among other fall favorites.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie

Elegant Apple Tart

Elegant Apple Tart. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This tart looks polished yet uses a straightforward method. It works as an apple dessert that feels elegant without requiring extended preparation.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Apple Tart

Gluten-Free Honey Apple Crisp

Gluten-Free Honey Apple Crisp. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This crisp uses honey for flavor and reduces the need for added spices. It functions as an apple dessert that offers a slightly brighter taste.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Honey Apple Crisp

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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