17 Ways to Use the Flavors of Fall

How To Make Leaf Chips

Fall into Autumn by cooking with the flavors of the season. There is no better time to embrace the deliciously warm essences of maple, cinnamon, ginger, and apple cider.

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Maple syrup — iStockphoto

iStockphoto

Maple

Contrary to popular belief, the sugary stuff that comes in a certain female-shaped bottle is not maple syrup (it's just corn syrup enhanced with artificial maple flavoring). Authentic maple is distinctly different, with greater depth of flavor and actual nutritional benefits. This natural sweetener is the sap harvested from maple trees, which are bountiful in places like Vermont and Maine. It has a leg up on other sugary ingredients since it is packed with good stuff, like Iron, Zinc, and Calcium. Here are some fantastic recipes to utilize this fall flavor.

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Maple-Apple Sweet Potatoes — David Prince

David Prince

Maple Sweet Potatoes

Sweet Potatoes and maple are a culinary power couple. Crunchy pecans will make this side dish a main attraction.

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Apple Walnut Baby Puree — Frances Janisch

Frances Janisch

Apple Walnut Baby Puree

Who says you need teeth to enjoy apple pie? Even baby can get in on the spirit of fall! Bonus: introducing varied flavors, such as cinnamon, early in a child's diet can help develop a lifetime of healthy eating habits.

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Pumpkin Bread — Monica Buck

Monica Buck

Shortcut Pumpkin Bread

Pumpkin gets a hit of cinnamon in this tasty (and easy to make) bread. Perfect for a post leaf-raking snack.

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How to Make Pumpkin Chiffon Pie

The Naptime Chef, Kelsey Banfield, shows how to make a yummy pumpkin pie with gingersnap crust.

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Mini Pear Crisps — Alison Miksch

Alison Miksch

Mini Pear Crisps

What's the best way to showcase a delicious pear? A simple recipe that allows the ripe fruit to shine.

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ginger — Blaine Moats

Blaine Moats

Ginger

Ginger is a versatile ingredient that can be used fresh or dried. It is commonly associated with yummy fall staples, such as gingerbread and hermits. It has also been used through the years to naturally combat health issues, such as nausea. Most importantly, it is delicious, and a great way to add autumn flavor to your plate.

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Glazed Carrots with Ginger — Brooke Slezak

Brooke Slezak

Glazed Carrots with Ginger

Bold ginger and sweet raisins evoke the essence of carrot cake in this simple side dish.

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Ginger-Squash Soup — Rita Maas

Rita Maas

Ginger Squash Soup

Soups are soothing comfort food for cold autumn nights. The kick of ginger in this recipe will warm you right up!

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Chicken Tagine — James Baigrie

James Baigrie

Chicken Tagine

Ginger is a staple in the Moroccan kitchen, and a natural addition to dishes like Chicken Tagine. This slow cooker version is an exotic treat for your family.

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Gingerbread Cupcakes — Scott Little

Scott Little

Gingerbread Cupcakes

We pack all of the scrumptiousness of gingerbread in an irresistible cupcake form. What's not to love?

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Gingery Apple Pie — Alexander Rowley

Alexander Rowley

Gingery Apple Pie

Take simple apple pie to the next level by incorporating ginger into the mix. Tip: Use a leaf cookie cutter to make extra pie dough into a festive pie topping.

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Hot spiced cider — Blaine Moats

Blaine Moats

Ciders

Apples are a time-honored symbol of fall, and fresh cider is an inventive way to enjoy this autumn staple. Cider is the liquid obtained from pressing the fruit. It can be enjoyed in its juice state, or as tart vinegar that boasts just the right amount of sweet. The following recipes are great ways to include cider in your kitchen repertoire.

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Apple Cider Sauce — Lara Robby

Lara Robby

Apple Cider Sauce

This cider sauce is a morning delight when served over hot waffles. Highlight the flavor (and boost the nutrition) with fresh cut apples.

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Sweet Potato-Parsnip Mash — Paula Hible

Paula Hible

Sweet Potato-Parsnip Mash

Subtly sweeten earthy parsnips and sweet potatoes with apple cider instead of refined sugar. An ideal exchange for kids and adults alike.

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Apple Cider Drumsticks — Alison Miksch

Alison Miksch

Apple Cider Drumsticks

Use apple cider to revamp this dinnertime staple. Our apple cider drumsticks make a wonderful weeknight meal.

Copyright © 2010 Meredith Corporation.

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How To Make Leaf Chips

Parents' food editor Erica Clark shows how to make yummy leaf chips from wonton wrappers and spices.

By Lauren Wilson

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