Fall is coming, friends. And with cooler weather comes more time spent cuddled under a blanket, rising only to refill your coffee mug (or glass of red wine). For those who are itching to get into the pumpkin-spiced, apple-picking season, get a load of these seven brunch recipes… and definitely tell some people to come over to eat this weekend (tell them to bring a bottle of cider too).
1. Cranberry and Orange Scones
Nothing complements a crisp fall morning like the smell of freshly baked, orange-scented scones. With a whole-wheat flour and coconut milk-base, this crumbly pastry tastes just as decadent as your favorite bakery’s offering… but slightly less rich so you have room to try everything on the brunch table.
2. Chai Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal
A steaming cup of chai makes a dish of oatmeal more cozy, sure, but have you tried combining the two? Creamy, chai-infused baked oatmeal (with banana for sweetness) under a blanket of nutty topping effectively calls for a big sweater and slippers. Because who says you can’t have brunch in your pajamas?
3. Baked Pumpkin and Tofu With Kale
Ditch the baked eggs and try a brunch dish with a little more pizzazz. Mix fresh pumpkin (or butternut squash in a pinch) with kale, tofu, and autumnal spices (turmeric! cinnamon!) for a garlicky and flavorful savory morning meal.
4. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Waffles
For the no-nonsense bruncher, we present a morning classic with a fall twist: chocolaty pumpkin waffles. Sweeten the moist batter with a few globs of honey to let the pumpkin flavor stand out. We recommend pulling hot waffles directly off of the iron, covering in maple syrup, and devouring while still standing up.
5. Apple Cider Bellini
One sip of this cider-based cocktail and you’ll be a little less upset about the end of rosé season. Pop a bottle of cold Prosecco (or let’s be real—that five-dollar bottle of André in your closet) to top a mixture of apple cider, orange liqueur, and maple syrup.
6. Spiced Fruit Bake
What happens when you give a classic brunch fruit salad an autumnal twist? A soft and sweet fruit bake with just a hint of crunch. We love this dish with a dollop of Greek yogurt or as a pancake or waffle topping.
7. Cranberry and Apple Quinoa Salad
For a slightly more substantial brunch option, turn to a fresh quinoa salad. Mix tart green and sweet red apples with chickpeas, walnuts, and dried cranberries for a dish that makes a tasty side this morning, and a filling main dish tomorrow night—you’re going to want to make a double batch, trust us.