50 Scrumptious Apple Recipes for Dessert

The fall season is the perfect time to enjoy apple recipes for dessert. Combine fresh apples with favorite spices for absolutely scrumptious apple desserts.

Everyone loves a good apple recipe, but what about when you're looking for something sweet? We've collected some of our favorite dessert recipes that use apples. From pies to cookies and everything in between, there's no shortage of deliciousness here!

This post contains affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase after clicking on a link, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

apples and apple pies and cinnamon on wooden table - apple dessert recipes

What can I make with apples for dessert?

There are so many great apple dessert recipes out there. This post shares 50 different ones, with something for everyone. You'll find gluten-free recipes, standard recipes, and even vegan dessert recipes.

Besides traditional apple pie, another fall favorite is recipes for apple crumble. Check this list of apple recipes for dessert and you'll see not just crumble, but cobbler, crisp and even pandowdy. Some are even quick apple desserts!

What are the best baking apples?

Just like potatoes, apples have different varieties and textures. Some are better for eating, while others are better for baking.

Typically for baking, choose the more tart and acidic apples, which tend to hold their shape more readily and break down less in the oven. This allows those apples to retain their signature flavor throughout the baking process.

On the other hand, if you desire apples that turn into a soft mush when cooked, choose some of the sweeter apples that are lower in acid. The sugar in them more readily breaks down and liquefies during the cooking process, which results in a great deal of flavor and moisture being released from within the apples themselves.

Whole and halved apples in wooden bowl - apple recipes for dessert

What are traditional fall flavors?

Typically, traditional fall flavors include all things cinnamon and nutmeg, as well as a variety of baked goods that have been flavored with apples. This is because these items are readily available at this time of the year and everyone knows what they taste like.

One of our favorite traditional fall treats that make great use of these typical ingredients is the classic apple pie. This is a great way to get yourself in the fall spirit! This big list of apple dessert recipes includes plenty of alternatives to pie.

When is apple season?

Typically, apple season occurs between the months of July and October every year. However, depending on where you live, this may vary slightly.

For instance, if you are located in New England or Canada, then your fall apple season will likely start a bit later than it does for those living in other parts of the country that are further south. The reason for this is that apples from the north typically require more time to develop and ripen, which is why they are harvested later than those grown in warmer climates.