60 of Our Favorite Fall Party Food Recipes

Melissa Gaman

By Melissa Gaman

Updated on Nov. 20, 2025

From creamy dips and warm sliders to desserts filled with cozy spices, these fall party food recipes are the perfect way to celebrate the season.

As much as I love a sunny summer pool party, cooled by a lavish spread of watermelon and tomato dishes, I’m not sad when it’s time to trade in my flip-flops for a cardigan and stone fruits for pumpkin recipes. The cozy flavors of fall party food recipes bring an entirely different vibe that’s a little slower-paced and so welcoming. This collection is filled with savory autumn party snacks and sweet fall desserts so that you can create the menu of your dreams for your next gathering.

From creamy dips to easy cheese appetizers for a crowd to warm sliders, the recipes in this collection suit all kinds of parties. For a casual cocktail night, mix up some fall drinks and prepare a bunch of small nibbles, like snack mixes, bacon-wrapped mini hot dogs and puff pastry bites. If you want heartier fare, try cranberry-glazed chicken wings, crispy fried pasta and mini quiches. Bake a few desserts so the aroma of spiced treats perfumes your home and welcomes your guests. It’s the perfect way to celebrate autumn.

1/60

German Apple Cake

Total Time:1 hour 10 min
Servings:16
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My mother made this German apple cake for my brothers and me when we were kids. It's an excellent choice for a Christmas potluck or actually any time of year. —Edie DeSpain, Logan, Utah
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 455 calories, 24g fat (6g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 212mg sodium, 57g carbohydrate (42g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
2/60

Caramel Apple Dip

Total Time:10 min
Servings:2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I first tasted this quick and easy cream cheese apple dip at a friend's Christmas party. I kept going back for more. —Karen Wydrinski, Woodstock, Georgia
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons dip: 174 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 120mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (21g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
3/60

Turkey Sliders

Contest Winner
Total Time:30 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Turkey sliders with ginger, horseradish and cranberry sauce refrigerate well, so I keep them ready for get-togethers when we bake gifts and wrap presents. —Pamela Miller, Big Rapids, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 slider: 231 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 221mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 1g fiber), 13g protein.
4/60

Pumpkin Cheese Ball

Total Time:20 min
Servings:3 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: No one will guess that this make-ahead pumpkin cheese ball has pumpkin in it, but that subtle ingredient lends harvest color and added nutrition. —Linnea Rein, Topeka, Kansas
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 85 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 174mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
5/60

Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Total Time:50 min
Servings:about 2-1/2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These soft pumpkin snickerdoodles will satisfy that pumpkin spice craving come autumn. They're sweet and spicy, and they have just the right amount of pumpkin flavor. —Brittney Greene, Cypress, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 cookie: 164 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 93mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
6/60

Pumpkin Snack Mix

Total Time:1 hour 25 min
Servings:about 5-1/2 quarts
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This yummy mix is so munchable that a bowl of it never lasts long. Feel free to use candy corn instead of the candy pumpkins—or a mix of both! —Shirley Engstrom, Genoa, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 216 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 223mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (20g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
7/60

Raspberry Chipotle Chicken Pinwheels

Total Time:40 min
Servings:3 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I love the flavor profile of raspberry and chipotle together, so I came up with these delicious puff pastry appetizers for a get-together. They were a hit! These pinwheels also make a fantastic dinner served alongside a simple salad with balsamic dressing. —Noelle Myers, Grand Forks, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts: 1 pinwheel: 106 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 140mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
8/60

Caramel Apple Bar

Total Time:25 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This caramel apple board cuts apples into slices so you can try a bunch of different topping combinations instead of committing to one or two for a whole apple. —Sarah Fischer, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 1018 calories, 42g fat (14g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 1052mg sodium, 155g carbohydrate (106g sugars, 8g fiber), 13g protein.
9/60

Brat & Bacon Appetizer Pizza

Contest Winner
Total Time:25 min
Servings:24
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Chopped bratwurst and maple bacon are a fabulous way to start a pizza. I jazz up this treat even more with apricot preserves and honey mustard. The snack-sized slices win over even the toughest critics. —Colleen Vrooman, Waukesha, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 124 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 229mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
10/60

Copycat Trader Joe’s Maple Leaf Cookies

Total Time:50 min
Servings:12 cookies
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These buttery maple cookies with maple filling are a copycat version of the beloved Trader Joe's maple leaf cookies that appear on shelves every fall. —Molly Allen, Hood River, Oregon
Nutrition Facts: 1 cookie: 454 calories, 20g fat (12g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 179mg sodium, 66g carbohydrate (41g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
11/60

Pumpkin Hummus

Total Time:15 min
Servings:3 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I love to serve this pumpkin hummus with sliced apples, pears and pita chips. Top it with toasted pumpkin seeds, a drizzle of pumpkin oil and even fried sage leaves. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 155 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 104mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 fat, 1/2 starch.
12/60

Sweet Potato Sugar Cookie Delight

Total Time:1 hour 5 min
Servings:24
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I made a mashed sweet potato casserole for a side dish, and the next day, I realized that the leftovers tasted even better right out of the fridge cold. That's when I decided I could maybe make a really tasty dessert. So, I mixed together some ideas from my other recipes for pumpkin desserts, and that's how this dessert was born! —Rhonda Van Donge, Sioux Center, Iowa
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 321 calories, 16g fat (11g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 353mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (22g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
13/60

Cinnamon Tortilla Chips with Pumpkin Fluff

Contest Winner
Total Time:35 min
Servings:about 3 cups fluff and 56 chips
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My family always gets the munchies before heading out to trick-or-treat on Halloween. This sweet pumpkin snack is our favorite because it's ready fast thanks to premade ingredients. —Theresa Ravencraft, Marysville, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons salsa with 2 chips: 102 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 100mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
14/60

Bacon-Wrapped Smokies

Total Time:50 min
Servings:about 3-1/2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These cute little bacon-wrapped smokies are finger-licking good. They have a sweet and salty taste that's fun for breakfast or as an appetizer. —Cara Flora, Kokomo, Indiana
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 90 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 293mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
15/60

Pumpkin Truffles

Total Time:1 hour 5 min
Servings:12 truffles
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These bite-sized pumpkin truffles are just as tasty as they are adorable. —Susan Bronson, Rhinelander, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 truffle: 145 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 93mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
16/60

Cranberry Brie Bites

Total Time:40 min
Servings:4 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My family hosts a holiday drop-in each year, and that's where these cranberry Brie bites made their first appearance. They are easy to make but look like a gourmet treat. —Cindy Davis, Bonita Springs, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 tartlet: 66 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 98mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
17/60

New Jersey Pork Roll Sliders

Total Time:55 min
Servings:1 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Pork roll, or Taylor ham, is one of New Jersey’s most iconic foods. Here, the processed meat is topped with eggs and American cheese for a quintessential Garden State breakfast. These sliders can also be served at parties! —Margaret Knoebel, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 261 calories, 15g fat (9g saturated fat), 144mg cholesterol, 464mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 13g protein.
18/60

Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

Total Time:3 hours 35 min
Servings:16 egg rolls
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: One of my favorite slow-cooker recipes is this impressive Buffalo chicken egg roll appetizer. You can wrap the filling in egg roll wrappers and bake. Or, for a bite-sized version, use smaller wonton wraps. —Tara Odegaard, Omaha, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts: 1 egg roll: 174 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 716mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 13g protein.
19/60

Pumpkin Delight Magic Bars

Total Time:1 hour 5 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My mother never wrote down her delightful recipes, so I created this recipe as a holiday tribute to her. They're creamy, sweet and a little tart. Eat each piece with a fork so you can scoop up all the delicious topping ingredients that might tumble off. —Lisa Glassman, Boynton Beach, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 bar: 299 calories, 17g fat (8g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 144mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (28g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
20/60

Spicy Honey Sriracha Game-Day Dip

Total Time:3 hours 20 min
Servings:12 (3 cups)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: You can easily whip up this creamy, spicy, salty dip. For parties, I love dips in the slow cooker—just turn it to low once the dip is cooked and let your guests help themselves. No need to worry about the dip getting cold and having to reheat it. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 168 calories, 13g fat (6g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 243mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 9g protein.
21/60

Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels

Total Time:35 min
Servings:about 2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This recipe is a twist on baked Brie. My family always requests these during the holidays. They are delicious and make the kitchen smell amazing! —Jacquie Franklin, Hot Springs, Montana
Nutrition Facts: 1 pastry: 193 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 193mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
22/60

Mini Sweet Potato Pies

Total Time:1 hour 5 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My son Levi was only 2 years old when he helped me create this delicious recipe, and it was the first time he told me I love you! I’ll always remember making these with him. —Emily Butler, South Williamsport, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts: 1 mini pie: 156 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 67mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
23/60

French Onion Meatballs

Total Time:1 hour
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This recipe adds a delightful bit of sophistication to a family-friendly meal. My children love meatballs, and the adults love the caramelized onions and layer of melty Gruyere cheese. —Amy Lents, Grand Forks, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts: 1 meatball: 77 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 245mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
24/60

Football Cake Pops

Total Time:2 hours 35 min
Servings:4 dozen cake pops
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My son loves football! For his eighth birthday, I made cake pops with a rich chocolate cake center and a yummy peanut butter coating. These are sure to be winners at parties, bake sales and sports-watching events.
—Jenny Dubinsky, Inwood, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 cake pop: 132 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 96mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
25/60

Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

Total Time:50 min
Servings:about 4 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I was trying to create an appetizer to serve at my teenage daughter's birthday party that the kids would love but that would appear elegant enough for the adults as well. These are made with simple ingredients yet yield a sophisticated result. Feel free to get creative with the flavors. Try shredded white cheddar in place of mozzarella or thyme instead of the rosemary. Take it up another notch by topping the rounds with smoked fish. —Amanda Digges, South Windsor, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer: 39 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 92mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
26/60

Pumpkin Ice Cream Sandwiches

Total Time:55 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My grandfather loves these pumpkin-flavored treats. They remind him of a cookie his mother made. They’re fun to eat no matter what your age. —Amber Wahl, Acampo, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 ice cream sandwich: 322 calories, 16g fat (8g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 154mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (29g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
27/60

Baked Nachos

Total Time:35 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I modified a nachos recipe I found, and my family loves it! It is now a regular at all our parties or any time we're craving nachos. —Denise Wheeler, Newaygo, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 313 calories, 16g fat (5g saturated fat), 29mg cholesterol, 786mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 11g protein.
28/60

Meatball Sliders

Total Time:1 hour 30 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These meatball sliders are a fun way to serve meatballs at your party without using a slow cooker. Made on mini Hawaiian rolls, they have a hint of sweetness to balance out all the wonderful Italian seasonings. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 slider: 467 calories, 24g fat (11g saturated fat), 113mg cholesterol, 804mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 31g protein.
29/60

Butterscotch Toffee Cookies

Total Time:20 min
Servings:5 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: With its big butterscotch and chocolate flavor, my cookie stands out. I like to enjoy it with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. It’s my fallback recipe when I’m short on time and need something delicious fast. —Allie Blinder, Norcross, Georgia
Nutrition Facts: 1 cookie: 95 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 70mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
30/60

Deluxe Walking Nachos

Total Time:6 hours 20 min
Servings:18
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This slow-cooked potluck chili makes an awesome filling for a little bag of walk-around nachos. Cut the bag lengthwise to make loading your fork easier. —Mallory Lynch, Madison, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 282 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 482mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 6g fiber), 12g protein.
31/60

Beer Dip

Total Time:5 min
Servings:3-1/2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Ranch dressing mix flavors this easy dip packed with shredded cheese. The dip is perfect paired with pretzels. Be forewarned, though: It's hard to stop eating once you've started! The beer cheese dip can be made with any type of beer, including nonalcoholic. I've taken it to many parties and I am always asked for the recipe. —Michelle Long, New Castle, Colorado
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 93 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 184mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
32/60

Pumpkin Cupcakes

Total Time:45 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This is a wonderful recipe I discovered and changed a bit to suit my taste. I love the flavor of pumpkin, and the cinnamon makes ordinary cream cheese frosting extra-special. When I made a batch for my husband to take to work, he said they disappeared in record time. —Debbie Wiggins, Longmont, Colorado
Nutrition Facts: 1 cupcake: 340 calories, 14g fat (8g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 233mg sodium, 53g carbohydrate (41g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
33/60

Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders

Total Time:40 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I created this dish to fill two pans because these sliders disappear fast. Cut the recipe in half if you want one batch. —Nick Iverson, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 slider: 380 calories, 24g fat (13g saturated fat), 86mg cholesterol, 628mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 18g protein.
34/60

Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potatoes

Total Time:1 hour 5 min
Servings:about 2-1/2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: After making little bacon-wrapped sausages for years, I needed a change! I had an extra sweet potato and half a package of bacon on hand, so I put on my thinking cap and came up with this treat. —Kelly Williams, Forked River, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 60 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 136mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
35/60

Ham-Cheddar Cheese Ball

Total Time:15 min
Servings:4 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: With the classic combo of ham and cheese, this spread is a year-round favorite at our house. For football parties, shape the ham and cheese ball into a football and add strips of Swiss for the laces. —Michele Moore, Mooresville, Indiana
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons (calculated without crackers): 108 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 26mg cholesterol, 162mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
36/60

Sausage Pinwheels

Total Time:45 min
Servings:about 6-1/2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Filled with sausage, sweet pepper and cream cheese, these roll-ups are excellent for unexpected visitors, a cocktail party or a halftime snack. Besides being easy to make, they can be done way ahead and kept in the freezer. All you have to do is pop them into a hot oven! —Cindy Nerat, Menominee, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer: 46 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 89mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
37/60

Big Soft Ginger Cookies

Total Time:30 min
Servings:2-1/2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These nicely spiced, big and soft ginger cookies are perfect for folks who like the flavor of ginger but don't care for crunchy gingersnaps. —Barbara Gray, Boise, Idaho
Nutrition Facts: 1 cookie: 111 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 98mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
38/60

Cuban Sliders

Total Time:30 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These wonderful little rolls are baked until lightly toasted and the cheese melts. The leftovers keep really well in the fridge and make a lovely cold snack. People go nuts for these! —Serene Herrera, Dallas, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 slider: 191 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 42mg cholesterol, 532mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein.
39/60

Slow-Cooked Cranberry Hot Wings

Total Time:2 hours 20 min
Servings:4 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Cranberry wings remind me of all the wonderful celebrations and parties we've had through the years. My daughter’s friends can’t get enough of these wings. —Noreen McCormick Danek, Cromwell, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 71 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 122mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0g fiber), 5g protein.
40/60

Baked Pot Stickers with Dipping Sauce

Total Time:45 min
Servings:4 dozen (3/4 cup sauce)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Twisting these wonton wrappers like little candies makes them fuss-free, and the dipping sauce is packed with sweet heat. —Taylor Marsh, Algona, Iowa
Nutrition Facts: 1 pot sticker with 3/4 teaspoon sauce: 52 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 101mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch.
41/60

Sweet Potato Cheesecake Brownies

Total Time:1 hour 5 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: If you're looking for something other than pumpkin, these sweet potato bars are a yummy alternative. Make them ahead—they're even better refrigerated overnight. —Debbie Glasscock, Conway, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts: 1 bar: 304 calories, 15g fat (7g saturated fat), 51mg cholesterol, 240mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (27g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
42/60

Mini Rosemary-Roast Beef Sandwiches

Total Time:1 hour 15 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Roast beef sandwiches never last long at a party, especially if you dollop them with mayo, mustard, horseradish and pickled giardiniera relish. —Susan Hein, Burlington, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich with about 2 teaspoons mayonnaise mixture and 4 teaspoons giardiniera: 220 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 466mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 17g protein.
43/60

Fried Prosciutto Tortellini

Contest Winner
Total Time:45 min
Servings:about 3-1/2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My take on Italian street food, these fried tortellini are crunchy, gooey good. For the sauce, use the best quality tomatoes you can find. —Angela Lemoine, Howell, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer: 48 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 98mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
44/60

Chocolate Chip Blondies

Total Time:30 min
Servings:3 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Folks who adore the classic cookies will enjoy that same beloved flavor in these chocolate chip bars. This blondie recipe can be mixed up in a jiffy, tastes wonderful, and is perfect for occasions when company drops by unexpectedly or you need a treat in a hurry. —Rhonda Knight, Hecker, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 1 blondie: 102 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 72mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
45/60

Almond Bacon Cheese Crostini

Total Time:45 min
Servings:3 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: For a change from the usual toasted tomato appetizer, try this baked crostini recipe. If you like, slice the baguette at an angle instead of making a straight cut. —Leondre Hermann, Stuart, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 each: 120 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 160mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
46/60

Mini Sausage Quiches

Total Time:45 min
Servings:4 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These bite-sized quiches are loaded with sausage and cheese—all nestled into easy crescent roll dough. Serve the cute muffinettes at any brunch or potluck gathering. —Jan Mead, Milford, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts: 1 mini quiche: 66 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 116mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
47/60

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Total Time:40 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My kids start begging me for these cakelike sandwich cookies as soon as autumn arrives. I haven't met a person yet who doesn't like these fun treats. —Deb Stuber, Carlisle, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich cookie: 344 calories, 17g fat (4g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 284mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (29g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
48/60

Taco Tater Skins

Contest Winner
Total Time:1 hour 25 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I wanted to make a version of these with ingredients most people have on hand. We make a meal out of these skins, but they're also great for parties as appetizers. —Phyllis Douglas, Fairview, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 153 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 227mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
49/60

Mini Grilled Cheese

Total Time:30 min
Servings:8 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: If you're looking for a fantastic make-ahead snack, try these miniature grilled cheese sandwiches. They're nice to have in the freezer for lunch with soup or a salad. My family loves to nibble on them anytime. —Anita Curtis, Camarillo, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 77 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 168mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
50/60

Ravioli Appetizer Pops

Total Time:30 min
Servings:3-1/2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Ravioli on a stick is a tasty appetizer everyone talks about. They’re simple and fun to make and eat. Use packaged dipping sauces, or make your own. Get my recipes on my blog, thehopelesshousewife.com. —Erika Monroe-Williams, Scottsdale, Arizona
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer (calculated without marinara sauce and pesto): 32 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 97mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
51/60

Pumpkin Bars

Total Time:45 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are the ultimate fall treat. But my family likes them so much, they ask me to make them all year long! —Brenda Keller, Andalusia, Alabama
Nutrition Facts: 1 bar: 275 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 242mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
52/60

Cranberry Sauerkraut Meatballs

Total Time:4 hours 15 min
Servings:about 5 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I tried these meatballs at a birthday party for a friend, and now I make them all the time. They are super easy to make and perfect for a potluck or a Sunday afternoon football game. —Lisa Castelli, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 meatball with about 1 tablespoon sauce: 76 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 250mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
53/60

Calzone Rolls

Total Time:40 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Big pizza flavor comes through in these rolls. My recipe makes two pans because you'll need 'em! It’s so easy to make the dough in my bread machine. —Barb Downie, Peterborough, Ontario
Nutrition Facts: 1 roll: 144 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 244mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
54/60

Pumpkin Pie Dip

Total Time:15 min
Servings:4 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I came up with this rich, creamy pumpkin dip when I had a small amount of canned pumpkin left in the fridge after my holiday baking. It's also great served with sliced pears and apples, or as a spread on zucchini bread. —Laurie LaClair, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons dip: 65 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 24mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
55/60

Sage & Prosciutto Pinwheels

Total Time:30 min
Servings:3 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I love, love, love to make appetizers and I especially like this recipe because I can make the rolls ahead, freeze them, and then slice and bake when needed. —Kate Dampier, Quail Valley, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer: 90 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 131mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
56/60

Pumpkin Knot Rolls

Total Time:45 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These rolls are the lightest, most delicious ones I've ever tasted—and everyone else seems to agree. The pumpkin gives them mild flavor, moist texture and a pretty golden color. At our house, it wouldn't be the holidays without them. —Dianna Shimizu, Issaquah, Washington
Nutrition Facts: 1 roll: 165 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 35mg cholesterol, 188mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
57/60

Ham Balls with Brown Sugar Glaze

Total Time:1 hour
Servings:about 6 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These smoky-sweet meatballs are a Pennsylvania Dutch specialty. I like setting them out when folks come to visit. —Janet Zeger, Middletown, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts: 1 meatball: 52 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 113mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
58/60

Pecan Pie Bars

Total Time:45 min
Servings:3 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These bars are decadently rich—just like pecan pie! They’re sure to disappear from the dessert table at your next gathering, so you might want to save one for later before putting them out. —Carolyn Custer, Clifton Park, New York
Nutrition Facts: 1 bar: 169 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 97mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
59/60

Mini Corn Muffins with Spicy Cheddar Filling

Total Time:55 min
Servings:4 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I’m an Iowa gardener and I like to feature sweet corn in my recipes. These cute, easy-to-eat bites are a fun change from the usual appetizers. —Margaret Blair, Lorimor, Iowa
Nutrition Facts: 1 muffin: 67 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 100mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
60/60

Cranberry Cookies

Contest Winner
Total Time:25 min
Servings:about 6 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Chock-full of cranberries, chocolate chips and nuts, these cookies are fun to eat. They offer a change of pace from traditional Christmas cookies ... but don't wait until December to make them. My family requests them all year round. —Betty Albee, Buhl, Idaho
Nutrition Facts: 1 cookie: 82 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 39mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.

Fall Party Food FAQs

What are the best foods for a fall party?

The best fall party foods are easy to eat while mingling and bring seasonal flavors, such as pumpkin, squash and cranberry, to dips, sliders, pinwheels, cookies and cupcakes. Cooler temperatures beg for richer options like cheesy potato recipes, crispy ravioli and freshly baked rolls to warm you up. A mix of sweet and savory dishes, from crostini to bar cookie recipes, makes a balanced party spread so there is something for everyone.

What are some easy fall gathering appetizers?

The easiest fall gathering appetizers require little to no cooking, such as an autumnal charcuterie board idea, or use prepared bread dough or puff pastry for quick and easy flatbreads. On the sweet side, instead of baking a cake, shape white chocolate truffles into little pumpkins so the dessert doubles as a table decoration. Dips that can be whipped in a blender or food processor come together in minutes and can be served with crackers, cookies or veggies.

What autumn celebration food can be made ahead?

Give yourself and your fall gathering a head start by making some of your party foods, such as snack mixes, cold dips, and baked goods like cakes and cheesecake bars, in advance. You can bake and freeze cookies several months ahead of time, so when party day arrives, all you have to do is thaw and serve them. For pizzas and pastry roll-ups that are best served hot from the oven, prep all the ingredients in advance, then on the day of, simply assemble and bake.