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Countdown to Cozy: Autumn Recipes to Kickstart Your Fall Weekend

It’s that time of year again when I start checking the weather app a little too frequently, praying for the first hint of a chill in the air. Don’t get me wrong—I’m all for summer fun, but by August, the thought of trading in sweltering heat for cozy sweaters and comfort food has me counting down the days. If you're like me and can't wait to dive headfirst into autumn, I’ve got a weekend lineup of fall recipes that will have you fully embracing sweater weather—even if the temperatures haven’t quite caught up yet.


Apple Cider Donuts      Photo By: Pretty Simple Sweet
Apple Cider Donuts Photo By: Pretty Simple Sweet

Apple Cider Donuts


The moment I even think I feel a cool breeze, my mind goes straight to apple cider donuts. These aren’t your average fried donuts; they’re baked to perfection, yielding a soft, dense texture that practically melts in your mouth. After baking, they get a buttery bath and are rolled in a generous coating of cinnamon sugar. Trust me, one bite, and you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to an apple orchard, no matter where you are.


 

Cranberry Whipped Feta     Photo By: Julia's Cuisine
Cranberry Whipped Feta Photo By: Julia's Cuisine

Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip

Recipe from Julia's Cuisine

Let’s be honest: holiday appetizer planning can be a bit of a headache. That’s where this cranberry-topped whipped feta dip swoops in to save the day. Imagine fresh feta, blended with garlic, herbs, and cream cheese until it’s impossibly smooth. Now, picture it topped with tart homemade cranberry sauce, toasted pistachios, and a drizzle of honey. The balance of salty, creamy, sweet, and tart flavors is so irresistible, you might just want to keep it all to yourself.


 

Creamy Chicken Pot Pie   Photo By: Sprinkle Some Sugar
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Photo By: Sprinkle Some Sugar

Creamy Chicken Pot Pie


There’s comfort food, and then there’s chicken pot pie. It’s the ultimate in cozy dining—a golden, flaky crust enveloping tender chicken, sautéed onions, sweet carrots, and peas, all swimming in a creamy, dreamy sauce. Sure, you can find it pre-made in the freezer aisle, but there’s something so satisfying about making it from scratch, especially when you’re craving that full-on fall experience.


 

Pumpkin Spice Latte   Photo By: Ambitious Kitchen
Pumpkin Spice Latte Photo By: Ambitious Kitchen

Pumpkin Spice Latte

Recipe from Ambitious Kitchen


Guess what? Pumpkin spice latte season is *officially* here. Starbucks may have kicked things off on August 22, but if you’re like me and prefer to sidestep the big chains, you’ll be thrilled to know that whipping up your own PSL at home is not only easy but also dangerously delicious. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to break out your coziest mug and start pretending it’s already October.


 

Cranberry Aperol Spritz    Photo By: Combine Good Flavors
Cranberry Aperol Spritz Photo By: Combine Good Flavors

Cranberry Aperol Spritz


I stumbled upon this gem during the holidays last year, and let me tell you—it’s been on my mind ever since. Who knew that cranberries could add such a festive, blood-red twist to an Aperol spritz? If you’ve got a sweet tooth, like me, swap out the usual Prosecco for a sweeter version, and you’ve got a cocktail that’s perfect for any fall gathering. But don’t worry, if you prefer it less sweet, it’s just as delicious with the classic bubbly.


 

Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies   Photo By: In Bloom Bakery
Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies Photo By: In Bloom Bakery

Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

Recipe from In Bloom Bakery

Why choose between pumpkin and cheesecake when you can have both? These pumpkin-spiced cookies come with a delightful surprise inside—creamy, tangy cream cheese filling. The flavors blend together in the most decadent way, creating a cookie that might just be your new favorite fall treat.


 

Pumpkin Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Sticks   Photo By: Sammi Brondo
Pumpkin Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Sticks Photo By: Sammi Brondo

Pumpkin Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Sticks

Recipe from Sammi Brondo

As much as I love a classic tomato soup, autumn calls for something a little more indulgent. Enter pumpkin tomato soup—extra creamy, thanks to sweet pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and a generous sprinkle of sharp Parmesan. Pair it with grilled cheese sticks for dipping, and you’ve got a comforting meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.


So, while we’re all waiting for those first leaves to change and the temperatures to drop, why not get a head start on fall with these recipes? They’re guaranteed to bring all the cozy vibes, even if the weather isn’t quite cooperating yet.

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