14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas

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As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s something undeniably special about autumn. This season brings warmth and comfort, and for many, it means indulging in sweet treats that reflect the bounty of fall. I created this post because I know how much we all crave those cozy flavors—think pumpkin, spices, and apples—during this time of year.

If you’re someone who loves baking or simply enjoys delicious desserts, this collection is for you. Whether you’re gluten-free or just looking for seasonal inspiration, these recipes cater to all your sweet cravings. You’ll find a variety of options that perfectly capture the essence of autumn, making your kitchen feel like a warm embrace on a chilly day.

In this post, I’ve gathered 14 autumn dessert recipes that are not only gluten-free but also filled with those nostalgic flavors of the season. From pumpkin spice mousse to maple pecan pie bars, you’ll discover treats that are easy to make, comforting to eat, and sure to impress your family and friends. These recipes will have your home smelling like a cozy bakery and bring joy to your holiday gatherings.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake some delightful fall dessert ideas that will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into these cozy autumn treats that are just waiting to be whipped up in your kitchen!

Key Takeaways

– Enjoy a variety of gluten-free autumn dessert recipes that highlight seasonal ingredients like pumpkin and apples.

– Try pumpkin spice mousse and chocolate pumpkin cupcakes for unique twists on classic fall flavors.

– Indulge in comforting options such as gluten-free apple crisp and chai spiced pear dessert that are perfect for sharing.

– Discover simple baking tips to make festive treats that will impress your holiday guests.

– Experience the joy of holiday baking with recipes that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, creating lasting memories.

1. Pumpkin Spice Mousse

14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas - 1. Pumpkin Spice Mousse

Craving something pumpkin and light? This mousse gives you a creamy, airy bite that feels like autumn in a glass. It’s comforting, not heavy, and comes together in minutes for a cozy night at home.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, coconut cream, powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
2. Beat with an electric mixer until fluffy and well blended.
3. Spoon into serving dishes and chill for at least 1 hour.
4. Top with whipped coconut cream or a pinch of cinnamon if desired.

FAQs:
– Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Yes, just make sure it’s smooth and not watery.
– Can I make this dairy-free? Use coconut yogurt in place of coconut cream and adjust sweetness as needed.

Pumpkin Spice Mousse

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 5:03 PM

2. Gluten-Free Apple Crisp

14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas - 2. Gluten-Free Apple Crisp

A warm apple treat that feels like a hug on a cool day. This gluten-free version pairs juicy apples with a crunchy, cinnamon-scented topping for a crowd-pleasing finish.

Ingredients:
– 6 cups sliced apples
– 1 cup gluten-free oats
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/3 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– A pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toss apples with cinnamon and nutmeg; spread in a greased baking dish.
3. Mix oats, almond flour, brown sugar, coconut oil, and salt until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle over apples.
5. Bake 30 minutes, until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.

FAQs:
– Can I use other fruits? Yes, peaches, pears, or berries work well.
– How should I store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Gluten-Free Apple Crisp

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 5:03 PM

Dessert Main Ingredients Cost Variations
Pumpkin Spice Mousse Pumpkin puree, coconut cream $26.23 Dairy-free option available
Gluten-Free Apple Crisp Sliced apples, gluten-free oats $23.92 Use other fruits like pears
Maple Pecan Pie Bars Almond flour, maple syrup $38.99 Substitute pecans with walnuts
Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes Gluten-free flour, cocoa powder $27.28 Use store-bought frosting
Cranberry Orange Oatmeal Cookies Gluten-free oats, dried cranberries $23.92 Use fresh cranberries
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Pumpkin puree, chocolate chips $29.00 Substitute coconut oil with butter
Spiced Carrot Cake Grated carrots, gluten-free flour $31.92 Use olive oil instead of almond oil

3. Maple Pecan Pie Bars

14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas - 3. Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Autumn delight in portable bars. A buttery crust meets a gooey maple filling studded with pecans for a dessert that eyes or appetites can easily savor.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 3 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix almond flour and melted butter to form crust; press into greased 9×9 pan.
3. Whisk maple syrup, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
4. Stir in pecans and pour over crust.
5. Bake 40 minutes; cool before slicing into bars.

FAQs:
– Can these be made ahead? Yes, keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.
– Substitute pecans with walnuts? Yes, walnuts work well too.

Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 5:03 PM

4. Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas - 4. Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

Chocolate and pumpkin team up for a cozy cupcake fix. Rich cocoa meets pumpkin for a moist bite, topped with a glossy chocolate finish that silences any pumpkin skeptics.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for frosting, optional)
– 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for frosting, optional)
– 2-3 tablespoons milk (for frosting, optional)

Instructions:
1. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with liners.
2. Whisk dry ingredients; in another bowl, mix wet ingredients until smooth.
3. Combine wet and dry until just combined.
4. Fill liners 2/3 full; bake 20 minutes. Cool completely before frosting, if desired.

FAQs:
– Can I use store-bought frosting? Yes, but homemade frosting is richer.
– How do I store these cupcakes? Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 5:03 PM

5. Cranberry Orange Oatmeal Cookies

14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas - 5. Cranberry Orange Oatmeal Cookies

Chewy, bright, and a touch tart, these cookies bring autumn to your bite. Cranberries meet orange zest for a refreshing twist on a classic.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup gluten-free oats
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions:
1. Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream butter and sugar; add egg and vanilla.
3. Mix in zest, oats, almond flour, cranberries, and baking soda until combined.
4. Drop spoonfuls on a parchment-lined sheet; bake 12 minutes.

FAQs:
– Can I use fresh cranberries? Yes, chop finely and reduce sugar slightly.
– How long do they keep? About a week in an airtight container.

Cranberry Orange Oatmeal Cookies

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 5:04 PM

6. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas - 6. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Soft cookies that scream autumn. Pumpkin, warm spices, and a generous handful of chocolate chips combine for a comforting bite.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:
1. Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
2. Whisk pumpkin, coconut oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and egg until smooth.
3. Whisk flour, baking soda, and cinnamon; fold into wet ingredients.
4. Stir in chocolate chips. Drop dough and bake 10 minutes. Cool briefly on sheet, then transfer to rack.

FAQs:
– Substitute coconut oil? Yes, you can use butter or a neutral oil.
– How long do they stay fresh? About 5 days in an airtight container.

Did you know pumpkin puree can boost moisture and cut added sugar by about 25% in gluten-free cookies? Cozy autumn flavor meets practical baking: stir in chocolate chips, chill a bit, and you’ll get soft, pantry-friendly cookies every time.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 5:03 PM

7. Maple Glazed Donuts

14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas - 7. Maple Glazed Donuts

Soft, gluten-free donuts with a glossy maple glaze—cozy enough for weekend mornings and quick enough for busy days.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– 2 eggs
– For the glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon almond milk

Instructions:
1. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
2. Mix dry ingredients; in another bowl whisk wet ingredients.
3. Combine wet and dry just until blended; fill donut pan 2/3 full.
4. Bake 15 minutes; cool. Whisk glaze ingredients and dip tops of donuts.

FAQs:
– Can I make ahead? Yes, store for a couple of days in an airtight container.
– How to reheat? Warm briefly in the microwave for a fresh bite.

Maple Glazed Donuts

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 5:04 PM

8. Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Pie

14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas - 8. Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Pie

Silky sweet potato pie with a gluten-free crust. It’s a creamy, lightly spiced centerpiece that fits holiday tables or cozy dinners.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup gluten-free pie crust
– 2 cups cooked sweet potato puree
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 3 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:
1. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and fit crust in a pie pan.
2. Blend sweet potato, coconut milk, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, spices, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour into crust and bake 45 minutes until set. Cool before slicing.

FAQs:
– Use store-bought puree? Yes, ensure it’s pure and unsweetened.
– How long to store leftovers? Refrigerate up to 4 days.

Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Pie

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 5:04 PM

9. Chai Spiced Pear Dessert

14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas - 9. Chai Spiced Pear Dessert

Roasted pears kissed with chai spice and a sweet syrup. It’s a fragrant, comforting treat that pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla.

Ingredients:
– 4 ripe pears, halved and cored
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon chai spice
– 1 cup water

Instructions:
1. Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place pears cut side up in a baking dish.
3. In a saucepan, dissolve sugar with chai in water; pour over pears.
4. Roast 20 minutes or until tender. Serve warm with a drizzle of syrup and optional ice cream.

FAQs:
– Make ahead? Yes, roast pears and rewarm before serving.
– Don’t have chai spice? Use a mix of cinnamon and ginger as a substitute.

Chai Spiced Pear Dessert

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 5:03 PM

10. Cinnamon Roll Bake

14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas - 10. Cinnamon Roll Bake

A simple, crowd-pleasing bake that captures the cinnamon roll vibe in a dish you can share. It’s perfect for brunch or a comforting dessert.

Ingredients:
– 2 cans gluten-free refrigerated cinnamon rolls
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions:
1. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Cut cinnamon rolls into quarters; place in dish.
3. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle over rolls; drizzle with melted butter.
4. Bake 30 minutes until golden. Mix icing with milk and drizzle over warm bake.

FAQs:
– Make ahead? Yes, refrigerate the assembled dish overnight before baking.
– No cinnamon rolls? Use gluten-free biscuit dough and add cinnamon-sugar topping.

Cinnamon Roll Bake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 5:04 PM

11. Almond Joy Candy Bark

14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas - 11. Almond Joy Candy Bark

Chocolate, coconut, and almonds come together in a quick, festive bark. It’s gluten-free and great for fall gatherings.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups dark chocolate chips
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– Sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions:
1. Line a sheet with parchment. Melt chocolate in 30-second bursts until smooth.
2. Spread chocolate evenly; top with coconut and almonds. Drizzle with more melted chocolate if desired and sprinkle sea salt.
3. Refrigerate 20 minutes, then break into pieces.

FAQs:
– Milk chocolate OK? Yes, but flavor will shift.
– How to store leftovers? Keep in a cool, dry place up to 1 week.

Fun fact: Almond Joy bark comes together in under 15 minutes, and it’s naturally gluten-free, so you can snack worry-free at fall gatherings. A sprinkle of sea salt takes the chocolate to party-worthy perfection.

Almond Joy Candy Bark

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 5:05 PM

12. Spiced Carrot Cake

14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas - 12. Spiced Carrot Cake

Moist carrot cake loaded with warm spices and a creamy frosting. It feels like a cozy slice of fall in every bite.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup almond oil
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– For frosting: 8 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup butter, 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions:
1. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch pans.
2. Mix carrots, sugar, oil, and eggs. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices.
3. Combine wet and dry; divide batter between pans. Bake 30 minutes. Cool.
4. Beat frosting ingredients until smooth; layer and frost cake. Serve.

FAQs:
– Can I make ahead? Yes, refrigerate up to 4 days.
– Any oil substitute? Olive oil, avocado oil, or melted butter work well.

Autumn dessert recipes are all about cozy, shareable moments. A moist spiced carrot cake—gluten-free—delivers fall in every bite and forgives a busy schedule when you bake a double batch. Slice, frost, and keep the kitchen smelling like cinnamon all week.

Spiced Carrot Cake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 5:04 PM

13. Nutty Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas - 13. Nutty Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

A chewy, nut-full snack that travels well. These gluten-free bars are easy to customize for a fall hike or a cozy evening at home.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups gluten-free oats
– 1/2 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:
1. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line a pan with parchment.
2. Mix oats, almond butter, honey, nuts, chips, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Press firmly into the pan. Bake 20 minutes until golden.
4. Cool completely before cutting into bars.

FAQs:
– Peanut butter instead of almond butter? Yes, any nut butter works.
– How long do these last? About a week at room temperature in an airtight container.

Nutty Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 5:04 PM

14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas - 14. Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Gingerbread aroma fills the kitchen as these chewy bars bake up. Spiced, molasses-rich, and perfect for sharing during the holidays.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1/2 cup softened butter
– 2 large eggs

Instructions:
1. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch pan.
2. Whisk dry ingredients; in another bowl mix brown sugar, molasses, butter, and eggs until smooth.
3. Combine dry and wet just until a dough forms; spread in pan.
4. Bake 25 minutes; cool before slicing into bars.

FAQs:
– Can these be frozen? Yes, freeze up to 1 month.
– Best storage? Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 5:04 PM

💡

Key Takeaways

Essential tips from this article

🎃

ESSENTIAL

Embrace Pumpkin Flavors

Incorporate pumpkin into your desserts, like Pumpkin Spice Mousse, for a quintessential autumn taste.

🍏

QUICK WIN

Go for Apples

Try making a Gluten-Free Apple Crisp to highlight seasonal fruits and provide a comforting dessert experience.

🍂

PRO TIP

Experiment with Spices

Use spices like chai or cinnamon in your recipes to enhance flavors and create cozy aromas during baking.

🍰

BEGINNER

Explore Gluten-Free Options

Utilize gluten-free alternatives, such as almond flour, in recipes like Maple Pecan Pie Bars for inclusive desserts.

🍩

ADVANCED

Perfect Your Donuts

Try making Maple Glazed Donuts for a delightful treat; they can be a fun project for all skill levels.

🍪

WARNING

Mix and Match Ingredients

Combine flavors, like in Cranberry Orange Oatmeal Cookies, to create unique and tasty dessert variations.

Conclusion

14 Autumn Dessert Recipes with Cozy Seasonal Sweet Ideas - Conclusion

Autumn is a time for indulgence, and these gluten-free dessert recipes are a great way to celebrate the season’s rich flavors. Whether you prefer the comforting warmth of pumpkin, the tartness of cranberries, or the sweetness of apples, there’s something for everyone in this delectable collection. So gather your loved ones, enjoy the flavors of fall, and don’t forget to share your favorite creations!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some easy gluten-free autumn dessert recipes to try this fall?

Great question for readers exploring gluten-free autumn dessert recipes. This article features 14 cozy options that celebrate seasonal ingredients while staying gluten-free.

Look for desserts like gluten-free apple crisps, pumpkin dessert bars, and almond-flour chocolate cups for cozy autumn treats. They lean into seasonal sweets and the comforting flavors of cinnamon, maple, and roasted apples.

Practical tips: use a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and add a binder like a pinch of xanthan gum if your blend lacks it. For crusts, swap in gluten-free oats or almond flour, and watch moisture to keep textures balanced.

Which pumpkin dessert recipes are gluten-free and perfect for fall gatherings?

Absolutely. Many of the 14 gluten-free autumn dessert recipes highlight pumpkin dessert recipes that shine at fall gatherings.

Look for gluten-free pumpkin bars, pumpkin cheesecake cups, and spiced pumpkin puddings that stay moist and flavorful without gluten. Add whipped cream, toasted pecans, or a drizzle of maple for holiday baking recipes that feel special.

Tips: use pumpkin puree with spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves), and if crusts are involved, use gluten-free crushed cookies or oats blended with butter. Always verify ingredients are gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

How can I make traditional fall desserts gluten-free without losing flavor?

Great question—many classic fall flavors work beautifully gluten-free with simple swaps.

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or almond/coconut flour with careful ratio guidance; add a binder like xanthan gum if your blend lacks it. For crusts, swap graham crackers for gluten-free crackers or almond flour crusts. For thickened fillings, substitute arrowroot or gluten-free cornstarch.

Enhance flavor with cinnamon, apple, and maple, and taste as you go to keep that cozy autumn treat vibe.

What are quick fall dessert ideas using seasonal ingredients like apples and pumpkins?

Here are quick, gluten-free fall dessert ideas you can whip up with apples and pumpkins in a snap.

Try a no-bake pumpkin cheesecake cups, warm baked apples with cinnamon and gluten-free oats, or a 15-minute apple crisp made with almond flour and gluten-free oats. For a no-bake option, layer pumpkin puree with whipped cream and spices in glasses for a fast seasonal dessert.

Pro tip: keep sliced apples lemon-tossed to prevent browning, and stock a few pantry staples like a gluten-free flour blend, pumpkin puree, and fall spices to speed up the process.

Do these autumn dessert recipes include make-ahead or freezer-friendly options for holiday baking?

Yes—many of the 14 gluten-free autumn dessert recipes are friendly to make ahead or freeze, perfect for holiday baking recipes.

Make-ahead options include bake-and-recool apple crisps, pumpkin bars that slice well after chilling, and crusts that freeze smoothly for later filling. You can bake in advance and reheat gently, or assemble no-bake desserts and freeze them until ready to serve.

Tip: label with date and store in airtight containers to preserve texture; many gluten-free desserts taste best after a night in the fridge to let flavors meld.

Related Topics

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holiday baking

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