10 Cozy Fall Recipes for Sweater Weather

There’s just something about fall that makes me want to slow down. The crisp breeze, that golden-hour sunlight, the first day I throw on a beanie, shacket, and sip a hot latte (or iced if that’s more your jam). It’s cozy without being heavy. And when the weather shifts, so does my appetite.

Fall is when my kitchen starts to feel like a second living room. It’s when soups hit differently, baking becomes therapeutic, and everything smells like cinnamon and roasted squash.

There’s also something sacred about this time of year, especially if you celebrate the Jewish High Holidays. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur arrive just as the leaves start to turn, ushering in a new year and a fresh beginning. The kitchen becomes a space for gathering, reflecting, and nourishing. Recipes like my Safta’s apple cake and a cozy pot of chili feel especially meaningful when shared with family around the table.

Cooking during this season isn’t just about feeding your people, it’s about slowing down and savoring the sweetness of what’s to come.

Whether you're making dinner on a weeknight, meal prepping for the school week, or pulling something warm out of the oven on a lazy Sunday, here’s a roundup of cozy fall recipes that are healthy, easy, and very Feed Your Sister-approved.

1. Chicken Pot Pie (With a Lighter Twist)

Let’s start with a classic. This Dairy-Free Chicken Pot Pie feels like a hug in food form, but mine skips the heavy cream. The filling is lighter than traditional versions (think coconut milk or broth instead of cream), but still has that rich flavor thanks to garlic, onions, and herbs.

I love using store-bought rotisserie chicken and loading the filling with whatever’s in the fridge: diced potatoes, edamame for protein, or just all the veggies for a vegetarian version!

Craving a gluten-free pie crust? Most grocery stores now sell gluten-free take-and-bake pie crusts!  If you’re looking for a paleo alternative, The Defined Dish’s Paleo Pie Crust works beautifully.

Pro Tip: I like to make individual portions in ramekins or super cubes and freeze them for a cozy dinner later.

2. Creamy Vegan Butternut Squash Soup

This Creamy Vegan Butternut Squash Soup is on weekly rotation the second temperature dips. It’s creamy without dairy and is packed with nutrients from squash, ginger, and sweet potato, and comes together fast.

It can be made in numerous ways with the addition of coconut milk and curry for a slightly different flavor profile, or throw in some leftover carrots at the end of their life (no more wasting food around here).

You can also add red lentils for a protein boost, or serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Bonus: it’s freezer-friendly and kid-approved.

3. Cozy Chili (Your Way)

There’s no wrong way to chili. My Feed Your Sister Chili is versatile and an autumn staple for those crisp evenings. I’ve done this with turkey, tofu, venison, bison, beef, or just beans. What matters is that it’s warming, hearty, and has layers of flavor.

I like sneaking in canned pumpkin or mashed sweet potato for extra creaminess and vitamins, especially if you’ve got leftovers lying around. Top with shredded cheese, avocado chunks, Greek yogurt, or tortilla chips (we’re all about the toppings in this house).

4.  Kale + Farro Salad with Fall Vibes

Balance out all the comfort food with a hearty, crunchy Kale Salad. I toss chopped kale with farro (or quinoa), toasted nuts, apples or roasted squash, and a bright vinaigrette.

It holds up well in the fridge and works great for meal-prepped lunches, potlucks, or a make-ahead side dish during busy weeks.

5. Easy Apple Tart

It’s not fall without apples. This Dairy Free Apple Tart is ridiculously simple, using store-bought puff pastry (gluten-free options available!) and layering on thinly sliced apples, cinnamon, and a sprinkle of sugar. 

No fuss, no heavy creams or complicated steps, just a flaky, golden crust and tender, spiced apples baked to perfection. It’s the kind of dessert that feels special but is totally doable even on a busy weeknight. Want to level it up even more? Serve warm a la mode with your favorite ice cream!

Bonus: it’s a beautiful addition to your Rosh Hashanah table or any fall gathering, tying in tradition with ease and flavor.

6. Safta’s Apple Cake

If you want a recipe that feels like a warm hug from grandma, Safta’s Apple Cake is it. This moist, spiced cake bursts with tender apple chunks and just the right amount of sweetness. 

It’s a beloved recipe that carries the spirit of my family and the sweetness of the season, perfect for sharing with loved ones during the Jewish High Holidays, at your Yom Kippur breakfast, or for a cozy afternoon snack. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but special enough to hold its own on holiday tables.

7. Instant Pot Applesauce

If you’ve never made homemade applesauce, let this be the fall you do. It’s basically just apples and spices tossed into the Instant Pot: done in minutes (trust me when I say the hardest part is just peeling the apples). Try this recipe from Tastes Better From Scratch.

I make a big batch, freeze half, and use it for school snacks, baking swaps, or just a warm bowl on a chilly day. Your house will smell like a Yankee candle (in a good way).

Bonus Tip: Save the apple peels from this for recipe #10 (see below)!

8. Delicata Squash with Curry + Coconut

This Coconut Curry Delicata Squash is perfect for baby-led weaning and a grown-up dinner in one. I roast sliced delicata squash with curry powder and top with shredded coconut (you can also skip the coconut altogether or blend for a seasoning). It’s creamy, flavorful, and such an underrated fall veg.

9. Apple Cider Sangria

And if you’re looking for a fall drink for the adults? This apple cider sangria is easy and festive.

To make, you simply combine a cheap bottle of white wine, sliced oranges, apples and pears, a cinnamon stick, and a large healthy glug of gin or vodka if you’re feeling bold. Let it chill and top with seltzer before serving. 

Perfect for brunches, holidays, or just because it’s Friday.

10. Bonus: Fall Vibes Potpourri 

Okay, not technically a fall food recipe, but still part of the cozy sweater weather vibes. If you want your home to smell like you’re strolling through an apple orchard, throw apple peels, cinnamon sticks, and star anise into a pot of water and let it simmer. 

What Fall Tastes Like

This time of year is about more than just food. It’s about the memories that come with it. Back to school, family dinners, Jewish holidays, the crisp air, and changing light. 

These cozy fall recipes are designed to make the season feel good inside and out. Comforting without being complicated. Nourishing without being fussy.

Whether you're roasting squash, baking a cherished family cake recipe, or making applesauce with your kids, I hope these recipes bring some warmth into your kitchen.

And if you need a little help getting meals on the table this season...

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