10 Washington Apple Desserts Everyone Craves In Autumn
When autumn leaves start falling in Washington state, our famous apples reach their peak flavor. Nothing captures the essence of fall quite like the aroma of apple desserts baking in the oven.
From traditional pies to modern twists on classics, Washington apples transform into mouthwatering treats that warm both body and soul during the crisp autumn season.
1. Classic Washington Apple Pie
Nothing beats the nostalgic comfort of a homemade apple pie baked with fresh Washington Honeycrisp apples. The flaky, buttery crust cradles a perfectly spiced filling where tender apple slices swim in cinnamon-sugar goodness.
I always add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. When that golden lattice top emerges from the oven, the entire house fills with an irresistible aroma that announces autumn has officially arrived.
2. Caramel Apple Crisp
Warm layers of Washington Granny Smith apples mingle with buttery oat crumble in this irresistible autumn classic. The tartness of the apples perfectly balances the sweet caramel drizzle that cascades over each serving.
My secret ingredient is a pinch of cardamom mixed with the traditional cinnamon. Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting into the nooks and crannies, this dessert captures everything magical about Washington apple season.
3. Spiced Apple Fritters
Chunks of Washington Jonagold apples suspended in a fragrant, spiced batter create these irregular-shaped treasures. After a quick bath in hot oil, they emerge golden and crisp outside, fluffy and apple-studded inside.
While still warm, I drizzle them with a simple glaze that hardens just enough to create that characteristic crackly coating. Each bite offers a different ratio of apple to dough, making these rustic treats an adventure from first bite to last.
4. Dutch Apple Cake
Somewhere between cake and pie, this European-inspired dessert showcases thinly sliced Washington Pink Lady apples arranged in a decorative pattern atop a buttery vanilla batter. As it bakes, the apples sink slightly while maintaining their beautiful arrangement.
The cake beneath soaks up the apple juices, creating a moist, tender crumb. A dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup finish this elegant yet homey dessert that’s perfect for autumn gatherings around the fireplace.
5. Apple Cider Donuts
Fresh from the fryer, these cake-like treats are rolled in cinnamon sugar while still warm. Made with reduced Washington apple cider for concentrated flavor, they’re the quintessential autumn indulgence at our local orchards.
The exterior offers a delicate crunch before giving way to a tender, spiced interior. I can’t resist grabbing a dozen and a cup of hot cider when visiting the U-pick farms around Wenatchee Valley. They never last the drive home!
6. Apple Bread Pudding
Cubes of day-old bread soak up a rich custard infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla before being studded with diced Washington Braeburn apples. While baking, the top develops a beautiful golden crust while the interior remains creamy and decadent.
The apples soften but hold their shape, creating pockets of fruity goodness throughout. I love serving this with a warm bourbon caramel sauce poured over the top – it’s the ultimate comfort food for those rainy Pacific Northwest autumn evenings.
7. Maple Apple Cheesecake
A graham cracker crust forms the foundation for this autumnal twist on traditional cheesecake. The silky cream cheese filling gets a seasonal upgrade with pure maple syrup folded into the batter.
The crowning glory is a topping of Washington Gala apples sautéed with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until caramelized and tender. After chilling overnight, the flavors meld into a sophisticated dessert that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee on a crisp fall afternoon in the Cascade foothills.
8. Baked Apples with Oat Streusel
Washington Fuji apples, cored but left whole, become individual dessert vessels in this rustic treat. The hollowed centers get packed with a mixture of oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, butter, and chopped walnuts before being baked until tender.
The skin helps the apples maintain their shape while allowing the flesh to become perfectly soft. I serve these beautiful ruby orbs warm from the oven with a pour of heavy cream or a scoop of ice cream. They’re impressive yet incredibly simple – nature’s perfect dessert container!
9. Apple-Cranberry Galette
Free-form and rustic, this open-faced tart showcases thinly sliced Washington Cosmic Crisp apples and tart cranberries nestled in a buttery, folded pastry crust. The exposed fruit caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a gorgeous ruby-hued center.
The combination of sweet apples and tangy cranberries creates a perfect flavor balance. I brush the crust edges with egg wash and sprinkle with turbinado sugar for extra crunch and sparkle. This unfussy dessert celebrates the bounty of Washington’s fall harvest in every slice.
10. Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies
These portable treats feature flaky pastry enveloping diced Washington Golden Delicious apples tossed with brown sugar and warm spices. Each hand-sized pie gets sealed with a crimped edge and brushed with egg wash before baking to golden perfection.
A final drizzle of simple icing adds just the right touch of sweetness. I love making these for autumn picnics at Washington’s scenic viewpoints. There’s something magical about biting into a warm apple hand pie while surrounded by the same mountains where these magnificent apples grow.
