Let’s face it—as cliche as it may be, nobody can deny the warm, cozy feeling that fills your body when you imagine that perfect fall aesthetic. In addition to the soft sweaters and crisp air, nothing embodies fall better than the scents of the season. And what is the perfect way to fill your airways with those distinctively delicious, nostalgic autumn aromas? Through food, obviously! While cooking can sometimes be daunting, there's no need to worry. These vegan recipes—a combination of baked goods and savory meals—are not only easy to make but also work on a budget! Even first-time chefs will find these tasty, fall-inspired recipes surprisingly easy. Get ready to embrace the seasonal mood as you fuel your body with these six simple vegan recipes.
1. One-Bowl Vegan Pumpkin Muffins
To start off the sweet dishes, these one-bowl vegan pumpkin muffins perfectly embody the essence of fall-inspired baked goods. This recipe is gluten free, but don’t worry—you can substitute ingredients according to what’s easiest for you. I would also suggest adding some vegan chocolate chips for a decadent touch. This dish can be your breakfast, snack, or even dessert. You can’t go wrong with a sweet treat to keep the fall vibes flowing.
2. Sweet Potato Brownies
Nothing attracts the sweet tooth more than the decadence of a chocolate-packed dessert, so why not make a fall-inspired version that satisfies your craving even more? These fudgy, gooey brownies put a twist on the classic recipe by adding seasonal sweet potatoes, crunchy pecans, and creamy almond or peanut butter. The maple syrup’s natural sweetness gives it that added autumn taste while also keeping it on the healthier side. As recommended in the recipe, top it off with some cold, creamy vegan ice cream.
3. Warm Apple Crisp
To finish off the sweet section, I saved the longest recipe for last, but trust me: it is well worth the wait. This vegan apple crisp might take patience in the oven, but the preparation is quick and simple. Like the other recipes, it is gluten-free but modifiable. The sweet, caramelized apples compliment the crispy, crumbly topping in the most divine way possible. To make it even more perfect, pair with vegan ice cream, Reddi-Wip’s vegan whipped cream, or both! Nothing screams fall more than fresh apples.
4. Butternut Squash Chili
To start the savory dishes, we have a flavor-packed butternut squash vegan chili. This meal is incredibly easy because you can customize it however you want to, so it's nearly impossible to go wrong! I recommend adding some Impossible meat crumbles for that added texture; to kick it up a notch, add some paprika to maximize the flavor profile. If you are looking for the best vegan sour cream brand, I highly recommend Tofutti. The various added spices in this simple one-pot meal compliment the fall vegetables to create a cozy autumn taste.
5. Creamy Pumpkin Pasta
The great thing about pumpkin is its versatility—it can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. In this case, we have a creamy, flavorful pumpkin mac and cheese that is sure to please your palate. This recipe only uses 10 ingredients, but feel free to add your own touch! I love the brand Banza for a protein-packed, chickpea-based pasta. To make it even more enjoyable, experiment with different pasta shapes, like bowtie or pinwheel. Who says it has to be macaroni? The unique flavor from such an easy-to-make recipe is sure to shock anyone with whom you share it.
6. Roasted Colorful Veggie Bowl
For the third and final savory dish, I decided to include something lighter that still embodies the seasonal spirit. This rainbow roasted vegetable bowl incorporates this season’s best natural ingredients, combined into one fantastic flavor explosion. Like the other two meals, this one is easily customizable and can be prepared in a flash! With this dish, you get that crispness combined with warm, freshly-roasted fall vegetables. How you roast each ingredient is up to you—the base can even be some fresh kale or lettuce if you’re in the mood for a crunch. Mix the tahini dressing and lemon juice with some maple syrup, a little dijon mustard, and a dash of garlic powder for a slightly sweet-and-spicy dressing that compliments the entire experience. Your taste buds will thank me.
With this mouth-watering menu under your belt, you are ready to embrace the season! Don’t be afraid to share the spirit with others; these simple vegan recipes will leave them satisfied, impressed, and overflowing with those warm, joyful feelings. These dishes are proof that vegan cooking can still be easy, affordable, and bursting with flavor. There is no time like the fall to open your mind—and stomach—to a new world of wonderful tastes. Dig in!