9 Classic Apple Desserts That Will Make Your Home Smell Like Fall

Many years ago, I bought an apple pie-scented candle that made my home smell as if I were baking the real thing. When the candle had burned completely, I tried to purchase another one just like it, but could no longer find it. I bought many scented candles from other brands, hoping to recreate that cozy, spiced aroma, but none matched the same intoxicating scent of that first candle.

Fortunately, you can still get that fragrance the old-fashioned way—by baking an apple pie, or any apple dessert seasoned with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspices. These nine apple desserts are perfect for crisp fall days and guaranteed to fill your home with the warm aroma of sweet, bubbling apples.

01 of 09

Perfect Apple Pie

This gorgeous apple pie has an exceptionally flaky crust, well-spiced apples, and a filling that stays juicy without becoming soggy or soupy. The trick is to pour boiling water over the apples 10 minutes before baking, which helps them hold their shape and keeps the filling from turning watery.

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02 of 09

10‑Minute Microwave Apple Crisp for One

Apple crisp is a classic fall dessert, and this version comes together in just 10 minutes. Make an oat-and-brown sugar topping in the microwave, then layer it over a speedy apple filling. Don't forget to serve it warm with ice cream or whipped cream.

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03 of 09

Tarte Tatin (Upside‑Down Apple Tart)

This famous upside-down apple tart is rumored to have been popularized at the Hôtel Tatin in France's Sologne region. It begins with homemade caramel on the bottom, followed by apples and a blanket of puff pastry. Once baked and inverted, the tart reveals a glossy layer of caramelized apples. Best enjoyed the same day it's made, this dessert is especially delicious with a dollop of crème fraîche or whipped cream.

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04 of 09

Apple Hand Pies

These hand pies maximize the ratio of flaky crust to fruit, making them ideal for crust lovers. Cornstarch in the spiced apple filling thickens it and absorbs excess juices from the apples and cider, keeping the filling smooth and firm enough to shape easily. The hardest part is waiting for them to cool—you don't want to burn your mouth on the first bite.

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05 of 09

The Best Apple Cider Donuts

These apple cider donuts derive their concentrated apple and spice flavors from fresh cider, along with nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. A coating of freeze-dried apples blended with cinnamon sugar adds a final boost of sweet-tart flavor just after frying.

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06 of 09

The Best Apple Crisp

If you're craving the flavor and aroma of apple pie without having to make an actual pie, this simple apple crisp will do the trick. It's ready in just an hour—something most pies can't offer.

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07 of 09

Gâteau Invisible (Invisible Apple Cake)

Once baked, the thinly sliced apples meld into this loaf cake, taking on the same texture as its sweet, custardy batter. White miso adds savoriness and depth to both the cake and its caramel sauce, preventing the dessert from being cloyingly sweet.

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08 of 09

Apple Pie Ice Cream

Not all fall desserts require baking. Inspired by the flavors of apple pie, this ice cream features plenty of real apples, a hint of cinnamon, and crushed tea biscuits. Pair this ice cream with your favorite baked apple dessert, or enjoy it on its own for all the cozy flavors of fall in one creamy bite.

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09 of 09

Apple Fritters Recipe

Crisp and golden, these fritters made with tart Granny Smith apples rival any bakery version. While they're still warm, coat them in a glaze of confectioners' sugar and apple cider, then enjoy right away or let them cool to room temperature.

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