Want to get into the spirit of the fall season, but don’t know where to start? Comfort foods are a great way to leave that seasonal depression behind and jump into fall festivities. Here are my top favorite fall foods to make or buy – everything from comfort dinners to desserts that satisfy your sweet tooth.
Autumn Squash Soup
My mom used to make this on cold winter nights, and it’s the epitome of a comfort-soup. Flavors of nutmeg and cinnamon are subtly present, balancing out the squash flavor. I love to make a simple biscuit recipe to go with it. A simpler option if you don’t have a kitchen in your dorm room or don’t want to cook, is to go across the street to Panera and order their soup. It’s not homemade- but it’s pretty close.
Pumpkin Bread
A generic fall favorite, but utterly delicious, this makes a great breakfast, snack, or even dinner. Some people love to add chocolate chips into the batter, like banana bread but with pumpkins, or put icing on top. Even without any extras added though, this recipe screams fall.
Candy Apples
There’s many different variations of this classic fall treat- but the basic version is an apple covered with caramel. Granny Smith apples are my personal favorite to use due to their sour flavor, which blends well with sweet toppings. If you want to spruce this up, consider adding chocolate, sprinkles, or nuts.
Chicken Pot Pie
Another basic comfort food, but one that warms your insides on the first bite. Filled with vegetables and chicken, it always makes me think of home whenever I make it. If you’re not into making a pie crust, you can buy pre-made ones at the store- or Marie Callender’s frozen Chicken Pot Pies are also pretty good as a meal for one.
Mac and Cheese
Either as a side dish, or as the main course depending on your hunger level, this dish always makes me feel like a kid again. Whether you’re buying Kraft mac and cheese from the store, or trying your hand at making it yourself- you’re bound to love it either way.
Apple Cider Donuts
Found at Carter Mountain in Charlottesville, VA, or at any local store such as Trader Joes, is the perfect fall donut. Cinnamon sugar and subtle hints of apple are present, satisfying anyone’s sweet tooth. Be careful though, eating one of these can lead to half the box.
