15 Fall Appetizers to Make for All Your Gatherings This Season

Sure, I am a sucker for a good pasta salad and ceviche bowl at a summer function, but the comfort foods of fall make even better dishes for hosting. Something about a fall-themed menu just begs to be shared. And if you’re planning on doing any hosting this season, fall appetizers are key to kicking off any cozy gathering.

Whether you’re hosting a Halloween craft night with the girls or a chic fall dinner party, appetizers are basically the playlist of the party. Alongside some flickering candles or maybe a crackling fireplace video on the TV, the right fall appetizer recipe will undoubtedly set the tone for your occasion. That’s why—rather than leaving you to scour Pinterest for hours to figure out what to make for your next fall gathering—I’ve done the recipe research for you, so you can host with ease! I’m talking light bites featuring fall’s best seasonal ingredients, creamy dips that will vanish in minutes, and picturesque charcuterie boards that make you look like the effortless host who “just threw something together.”

Keep scrolling for 15 fall appetizers you’ll want to make (and eat) on repeat this season.

1. Pumpkin-Shaped Baked Brie

This fall appetizer recipe may sound ambitious, but don’t let the pumpkin shape intimidate you. Simply wrap your brie in pre-made puff pastry, then tie a few lengths of baker’s twine around it to create your pumpkin look. When baked, the puff pastry will turn out beautifully crisp and golden-brown, while the cheese inside gets all gooey, melty, and perfectly scoopable.

2. Upside-Down Onion and Gruyere Tarts

These mini tarts look fancy enough to fool any guest into thinking they took you hours. However, they require just six ingredients and a few minutes of prep. Store-bought puff pastry is the real hero here, and baking the tarts upside-down means everything cooks together at the same time.

3. Maple Chipotle Pumpkin Hummus

Made with pumpkin, smoky spices, and a touch of maple syrup, this recipe brings all of fall’s best flavors together. All you have to do is mix the ingredients together in a blender, then serve it with pita chips, carrots, or crackers.

4. Fall Charcuterie Board

A charcuterie board is the ultimate party appetizer that’s as fun to put together as it is to eat. This fall-friendly version leans into the best seasonal flavors—think apple butter, fig jam, and maple leaf-shaped cookies alongside classic meats and cheeses—but don’t let that box you in. Raid your pantry and grab whatever accoutrements you have on hand. Variety is key, and sometimes, the messier it looks, the better.

5. Bacon-Wrapped Dates

I am usually not a huge dates fan, but stuff them with cheese and wrap them in crispy bacon, and suddenly I’m game. This fall appetizer calls for just three main ingredients, and here’s a little secret: pre-cooking the bacon before wrapping makes a world of difference. If you want crispy bacon without burning your dates, don’t skip this step.

6. Apple Pecan Brie Mini Appetizers

Made with roasted apples, fig jam, ooey gooey cheese, cinnamon pecans, and fresh rosemary, these puff pastry bites are stuffed full of fall goodness. Since most of the ingredients are store-bought, the recipe requires more assembly than prep or cooking. These bites taste best fresh out of the oven, so have your guests come hungry and throw these together right before they arrive.

7. Caramelized Onion Dip

French onion soup is a classic fall comfort food, and with this recipe, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors in dip form. It’ll take a good chunk of time to caramelize the onions, so definitely don’t try to make this at the last minute. Luckily, this is one of those recipes that tastes better as it sits, so it’s perfect for making a day or two in advance.

8. Apple and Brie Crostini with Hot Honey

Crostinis are the ideal appetizer if you want something that looks elegant but takes minimal effort, and this apple and brie version is perfect for a fall get-together. Topped with prosciutto and a drizzle of hot honey, these pack just the right amount of kick to have your guests oohing and ahhing. You can also sub the apple for other seasonal ingredients like pear slices, fresh figs, or a smear of jam.

9. Vegan Jalapeño Butternut Squash Queso

If you’re looking for a vegan alternative to creamy dips, this butternut squash queso makes the perfect cozy fall appetizer. It’s so creamy and flavorful, you won’t even miss the dairy. Serve it with chips for the ideal complement to football Sundays or fall movie nights.

10. Sweet Potato Rounds

Sweet, tangy, and packed with fall flavors, these sweet potato rounds are an easy appetizer every kind of eater can love. They’re essentially crostinis made with sliced sweet potato instead of bread, making them perfect if you’re hosting any gluten-free or low-carb eaters. Top them with cranberry sauce, crumbled feta, some toasted nuts, and a freshly made balsamic and honey drizzle that’s to die for.

11. Pumpkin Cheese Ball

Perfect for Halloween, Friendsgiving, or game day, this pumpkin-shaped cheese ball is coated in a savory crunch that’s hard to resist. Plus, I promise it’s way easier than it looks to make. Simply mix the cheese with some seasonings, form the pumpkin shape with help from a little kitchen twine, and chill in the fridge. Once it has firmed up, add the pecan-and-bacon coating and place a bell pepper stem on top to complete the look.

12. Whipped Goat Cheese Dip with Candied Bacon

This creamy, savory dip is perfect for fall entertaining. It’s elegant enough to serve as a Thanksgiving appetizer but easy enough to throw together for a last-minute night in with friends. The recipe recommends serving this dip with pretzels, but it would also be delicious with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or even sliced apples.

13. Stuffed Mushrooms

Mushrooms are a staple ingredient this time of year, making a stuffed mushroom tray a heavenly option for fall entertaining. Filled with breadcrumbs, cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and pine nuts, these pack tons of flavor into every bite. Pro tip: Wipe your mushrooms with a damp towel instead of rinsing to prevent them from getting soggy.

14. Pumpkin Dip

No fall gathering feels complete without some sort of pumpkin-themed dish—and this creamy pumpkin dip is the best way to get the party started. It tastes just like a homemade slice of pumpkin pie—but in creamy dip form. It also takes just five minutes to whip up, so it’s a great option if you’re in a time crunch.

15. Baked Brie

Topped with candied pecans, fig jam, dried cranberries, and a sprinkle of fresh thyme, this brie hits that perfect sweet-meets-savory note. It looks like a total showstopper when you’re setting the table, but it’s also easy enough to pull off in just 15 minutes. The recipe recommends serving alongside your favorite sourdough rounds, bagel thins, or crackers.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Madigan Will, Assistant Editor

As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Madigan writes and edits content for every topic under the digital media sun. As the oldest of four siblings, she enjoys utilizing her big sister persona to connect and inspire readers—helping them discover new ways to maximize their everyday.

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