Written By: Cove Johnson Rabidoux
Fall is approaching, and a wide variety of delicious fall flavors come with it. There are so many autumn-centric flavors, from salted caramel to pumpkin spice to butternut squash. However, which ones are the best? Here, I will explore five of the most comforting and delicious fall flavors. Whether you utilize them in a savory Thanksgiving dish or a sweet pie, these flavors are sure to get you in the fall spirit.
5. Apple
As apples are in season from late August through October, these fruits are a classic fall ingredient. Think about it: if you were to imagine a traditional autumn flavor, it would most likely be apples. Apples can be used in a variety of different dishes, both sweet and savory. For example, apples are perfect for pies, crisps, and cider. On the savory side, they pair beautifully in some salads with squash or hearty greens like kale. Overall, the natural sweetness of apples balances well with other fall-related spices, enhancing that warm, cozy feeling fall evokes. That being said, while apples are a classic ingredient, their flavor can be a bit dull, which is why they rank in fifth place.
4. Butternut Squash
Coming in fourth place is butternut squash. Butternut squash is the ultimate fall vegetable with its naturally sweet and nutty flavor. It’s versatile enough for soup, pasta, risotto, or simply roasted with a sprinkle of cinnamon or sage. You can also puree butternut squash to make a creamy base for hearty fall dishes. Plus, what color is more closely associated with fall than orange, which is why the rich orange color of butternut squash makes it even more appealing for autumn dishes? In general, with its striking color and sweet (yet also savory) flavor, butternut squash is certainly one of the best fall ingredients.
3. Pumpkin Spice
No list of fall ingredients would be complete without pumpkin spice. Pumpkin spice, also known as pumpkin pie spice, is made up of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. As a result, pumpkin spice is packed with iconic flavors that add a comforting warmth to any dish or beverage. Speaking of which, while pumpkin spice is mostly known for its role in lattes, pumpkin spice goes beyond just coffee. You can add pumpkin spice to ginger cookies, pumpkin cakes, and even savory soups. It's a true hallmark of the season, embodying fall with every bite or sip.
2. Salted Caramel
In second place, we have salted caramel. Who doesn't love salted caramel? With its silky texture and creamy and sweet flavor, salted caramel is a fan-favorite fall flavor. From drizzling it over desserts like brownies or ice cream to incorporating it into baked goods like cakes and cookies, salted caramel adds a luxurious touch to any fall treat. The richness of the caramel, coupled with a hint of sea salt, makes this the perfect flavor to use in your next fall dishes.
1. Chocolate
There is only one thing better than salted caramel, and that's chocolate. From dark chocolate to milk chocolate, there are so many different types of chocolate you can choose from. However, no matter what chocolate you use, it is sure to be a timeless treat, especially during the cooler autumn months. So whether you enjoy a rich brownie or a creamy hot cocoa, its deep flavor adds warmth and comfort. Chocolate also pairs wonderfully with other fall ingredients like pumpkin, cinnamon, or nuts, making it a great choice for both baking and snacking.
Whether incorporated into sweet or savory recipes, these five flavors are guaranteed to infuse your table with the warm and nostalgic essence of autumn! So whether you're whipping up a pie or preparing a salad, think about including some of these ingredients to capture that fall feeling—no need for a Halloween outfit.
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What are your favorite fall flavors?