Here Are Our Favorite Autumn Pie Staples to Warm the Soul And Lift Your Spirit

Autumn is almost synonymous with the warmth, sweetness and indulgence of pies. Here are our go-to pies and their recipes for the cozy and intimate season.

As the air turns crisp and leaves paint the landscape in shades of amber and crimson, autumn ushers in a season of cozy gatherings, sweaters, warm blankets, and indulgent treats. Among the myriad delights that this season offers, autumn pies stand tall as timeless classics that capture the essence of fall. Autumn pie staples are more than just desserts; they are culinary expressions of the season's spirit, bringing people together and creating lasting memories. With each slice, we savor not only the flavors but also the sense of tradition, the warmth of gatherings, and the beauty of nature's bounty.

As we indulge in these autumn pie classics, we are reminded of the simple joys found in the kitchen, the comfort of home, and the richness of life itself. So, let us embrace the aroma of spices, the sweetness of fruits, and the golden hues of autumn pies, allowing them to warm our souls and fill our hearts with gratitude for the abundant blessings of the season.

Apple Pie

When it comes to autumn pies, apple pie reigns supreme. Its buttery crust envelopes slices of tart apples infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a symphony of flavors that embodies the essence of fall. The aroma of a freshly baked apple pie wafting through the kitchen is an invitation to gather, share stories, and revel in the simple pleasures of life.

Apple pie recipe:

• Dough for double-crust pie
• ⅓ cup sugar
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 6-7 cups thinly sliced peeled tart apples
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 large egg white

For serving:

• Coarse sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Vanilla ice cream
• Caramel sauce

Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin pie, with its velvety texture and earthy sweetness, is synonymous with autumn feasts and Thanksgiving gatherings. Made from roasted pumpkins, spiced with cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, this pie encapsulates the very spirit of the season. Topped with a dollop of whipped cream, it becomes a decadent treat that warms the heart and soul with every bite.

Pumpkin pie recipe:

• 1 can pumpkin puree
• 1 can condensed milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 unbaked pie crust

Pecan Pie

Pecan pie, adorned with a layer of crunchy caramelized pecans atop a sweet and gooey filling, is a testament to the rich flavors of autumn. The pecan's natural richness pairs perfectly with brown sugar and butter, creating a dessert that embodies comfort and indulgence. Each bite is a harmony of textures and tastes, making it a favorite among autumn pie enthusiasts.

Pecan pie recipe:

For the crust:

• 1 unbaked pie crust
• Egg wash for pie crust
• 1 large egg beaten with 1 tbsp milk or heavy cream

For the filling:

• 2 ½ cups pecans, halved
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup dark corn syrup
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

Pear and Cranberry Pie

Pear and cranberry pie marries the delicate sweetness of ripe pears with the vibrant tartness of cranberries, resulting in a pie that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. The burst of tart cranberries amidst the sweet pear filling adds complexity, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a balance of flavors in their autumn dessert.

Pear and cranberry pie recipe:

For the pie:

• Pastry for single-crust pie
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 5 cups sliced peeled fresh pears
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

For the topping:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ⅓ cup butter
• ½ cup chopped walnuts

Cherry Pie

Cherry pie, with its ruby-red filling bubbling beneath a golden crust, is an enduring symbol of comfort and indulgence. With its irresistible combination of flavors, the artistry involved in its creation, and the nostalgia it evokes, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of homemade desserts.

Cherry pie recipe:

• Pie crust
• 4 ½ cups cherries
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp almond extract
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• Egg wash: 1 large egg beaten with 1 tbsp milk