When the air turns cooler (or when we just pretend it’s fall in the Philippines with our trusty aircon on full blast 😄), there’s something comforting about the smell of apples baking in the kitchen. Warm, sweet, buttery — it feels like a hug in dessert form.
Even if we don’t get autumn leaves or pumpkin patches here, we can still join the cozy season trend with these apple dessert recipes that are easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for merienda or weekend bonding time. 🍏
Here are some of my favorite apple season treats that bring that fall feeling straight to our home:
1. Crispy Apple Pie
This one’s a classic for a reason! Flaky crust, gooey apple filling, and that cinnamon aroma that instantly feels like home. You can make it in a pan or air fryer if you’re skipping the oven.
Shortcut: Use ready-made puff pastry sheets or simply bread slices (tasty) for quick, easy pies that still taste like they came from a café!
2. Apple Turon
Think of this as a sweet Pinoy twist on the classic apple pie! Instead of banana, we’re wrapping cinnamon-sautéed apples in lumpia wrapper, frying until golden, then drizzling with caramel syrup. Crispy, sticky, and so addicting!
Tip: Add crushed grahams or cheese before wrapping for extra texture and flavor.
3. Apple Pie Empanadas
These are like bite-sized happiness! Apple chunks cooked in butter and sugar are wrapped in flaky pastry, then baked or fried. They’re perfect for on-the-go snacks or sweet gifts for friends.
Tip: Dust with powdered sugar right after baking for that café-style finish.
3. Apple Pie Cheesecake
The best of both worlds — creamy cheesecake meets warm spiced apples! Layer a graham crust, pour in cheesecake filling, and top with sautéed apples, cinnamon, and a drizzle of caramel. Chill overnight and enjoy your fancy-but-easy fall dessert the next day.
Serving idea: Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for that full dessert shop experience.
Apple Pie Cheesecake recipe here
5. Caramel Apple Bread Pudding
Leftover bread? Turn it into a show-stopping dessert! Combine apple slices, milk, eggs, cinnamon, and sugar — then bake until golden and fluffy. Serve warm with caramel drizzle or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
6. Hot Apple Latte (a.k.a. the Fall Drink You Didn’t Know You Needed)
Move over pumpkin spice — this one’s the real cozy queen! Heat up apple juice with a dash of cinnamon and top it with frothed milk or whipped cream. It smells like an apple pie in a cup. 🍂
7. Apple Donut Holes
Soft, fluffy, and packed with apple flavor! Mix grated apples into your donut batter, fry until golden, then toss in cinnamon sugar. Perfect for merienda or for snacking while watching your favorite K-drama.
8. Apple Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Moist, buttery cupcakes with chunks of apple inside, topped with tangy cream cheese frosting — these are irresistible! They make any day feel special, whether it’s for Sunday family time or an afternoon treat
Apple desserts are proof that comfort and sweetness can come from something so simple. 🍎 Whether it’s fried, baked, or turned into a drink, these apple dessert recipes bring warmth to every table — no matter the season or weather outside.
So grab some apples on your next grocery run, turn on your favorite playlist, and let your kitchen smell like fall — even if it’s still 34°C outside! 😉
