Apple picking season has arrived, and whether you're coming home with a full bag from a local orchard or just stocking up from your favorite grocery store, there’s no better time to get creative in the kitchen. Apples are a classic fall staple, and at Lariat, they pair perfectly with cool evenings, cozy moments, and fun family traditions. From easy recipes to festive drinks (and even a few craft ideas), here’s how to make the most of this beloved fall fruit.
Easy Fall Recipes
Apple Cinnamon Oat Muffins
These muffins are the perfect grab-and-go breakfast or lunchbox snack. Just mix together rolled oats, grated apples, cinnamon, eggs, and a little maple syrup. Bake in muffin tins and enjoy the smell of fall filling your kitchen.
Slow Cooker Applesauce
Simply peel, core, and chop your apples. Toss them in the slow cooker with a splash of water, a bit of cinnamon, and a spoonful of brown sugar. Let it simmer for a few hours until soft, then mash to your preferred texture. It’s great warm or cold, and your house will smell incredible.
Apple Grilled Cheese with Cheddar and Honey
Thinly sliced apples layered with sharp cheddar cheese and a drizzle of honey between slices of sourdough bread—grilled to perfection. It’s the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy, and a fun twist on a classic comfort food.
Sweet Treats
Caramel Apple Nachos
Slice apples thin and spread them out on a plate. Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top, then sprinkle with mini chocolate chips and crushed graham crackers. It’s like a deconstructed caramel apple that’s easy to share (and even easier to love).
Baked Apple Chips
Thinly slice apples and sprinkle with cinnamon. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet at low heat (around 225°F) for 1.5–2 hours, flipping halfway through. Let them cool and crisp up—perfect for snacking on a fall walk or packing in a school lunch.
Festive Fall Drinks
Hot Apple Cider
Simmer apple cider with cinnamon sticks, orange slices, and cloves for a warm and cozy drink. Perfect for porch weather or to serve during neighborhood gatherings.
Apple Pie Smoothie
Blend a chopped apple with a banana, a scoop of oats, almond milk, and a pinch of cinnamon. It’s a healthy, spiced smoothie that tastes like dessert but works for breakfast, too.
Sparkling Apple Mocktails (Kid-Friendly!)
Combine apple juice with sparkling water and a splash of lemon or cranberry juice. Serve in fun cups with apple slice garnishes for a festive touch kids will love.
Bonus: Apple Crafts for Kids
Apple Stamping
Slice apples in half, dip them in washable paint, and stamp onto paper or canvas. Add stems and leaves with a brush or marker for cute fall art that’s fun for all ages.
Cinnamon-Scented Dried Apple Garland
Thinly slice apples and bake or dehydrate until dried. String them together with twine, cinnamon sticks, and wooden beads for a sweet-smelling fall decoration.
Tis’ the Fall Season!
Whether you're baking muffins, sipping cider, or crafting with the kids, apples are a delicious and versatile way to celebrate the season. Try one (or all!) of these ideas, and don’t forget to tag Lariat when you share your creations with neighbors. After all, fall at Lariat is all about warmth, flavor, and community fun!
Looking to make Lariat your home? We have an array of new homes available now before the Holidays! Take a look at the inventory and find your new home for Fall!