Apple Delights: 10 Enticing Desserts That are Better than Pie

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When it comes to fall desserts, it’s hard to think beyond the classic apple pie. But let’s step outside the pie box and explore some other delightful apple desserts. In this post I’m showcasing a medley of innovative and tasty recipes that will have you rethinking your autumn sweet spread.

A slice of apple galette with ice cream on a plate.
Rustic Apple Galette. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

From the simplicity of rustic galettes to the indulgent charm of apple cheesecake, these top 10 apple-centric creations are not just alternatives—they’re soon-to-be new favorites. So, preheat your oven (or air fryer!), grab your cinnamon, and enjoy the orchard of desserts that await you.

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Rustic Apple Galette

Forget the fuss of traditional pie with this rustic apple galette. It’s as simple as it gets: just roll out the dough, pile on the apple mixture, and bake. Drizzle with caramel or add a scoop of ice cream for an effortlessly delicious dessert.
Get the Recipe: Rustic Apple Galette

Mini Caramel Apples

mini caramel apples on a cutting board
Mini Caramel Apples. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Bite-sized and adorable, these mini caramel apples pack all the punch of the classic fall treat with less mess. They’re perfect for kids and adults alike, and the fun size means you can indulge without overdoing it. A surefire hit for any autumn gathering!
Get the Recipe: Mini Caramel Apples

Apple Pie Egg Rolls

Apple pie egg rolls on a plate.
Apple Pie Egg Rolls. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Combine the comfort of apple pie with the crunch of an egg roll and you get this innovative dessert. Stuffed with a sweet, cinnamon apple filling, these rolls are a crunchy, handheld delight. They’re a fun, dippable twist that will have guests talking.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Egg Rolls

Apple Upside Down Cake

A slice of apple cinnamon coffee cake on a plate.
Apple Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This apple upside-down cake is a showstopper with its caramelized apple topping that becomes beautifully sticky as it bakes. Upside-down and inside out, this cake is a twist on tradition that’s sure to become a new favorite. Serve warm for ultimate comfort.
Get the Recipe: Apple Upside Down Cake

Amish Apple Fritter Bread

A slice of apple cinnamon bread on a cutting board.
Amish Apple Fritter Bread. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Savor the flavors of fall with Amish Apple Fritter Bread. This sweet, cinnamony loaf is ribboned with chunks of apple and topped with a delightful glaze. It’s a slice of autumn that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee.
Get the Recipe: Amish Apple Fritter Bread

Apple Crisp in a Mug

A mug with a scoop of ice cream and apple crisp.
Apple Crisp in a Mug. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Cozy up with an apple crisp in a mug, the perfect quick-fix for your fall dessert cravings. It’s a personal-sized treat that combines tart apples with a crunchy topping, all made in minutes. Ideal for those chilly nights when you need a warm, comforting sweet.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp in a Mug

Air Fryer Baked Apples

Air Fryer Baked Apples cut in half to show filling.
Air Fryer Baked Apples. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Air fryer baked apples are a modern take on grandma’s classic recipe. With the air fryer’s magic, apples become tender and caramelized without turning on the oven. Sprinkle with nuts and oats for a crunchy contrast to the soft, spiced fruit.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baked Apples

Instant Pot Apple Pie Cheesecake

Slice of apple pie cheesecake in front of the Instant Pot.
Instant Pot Apple Pie Cheesecake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

For those who can’t choose between pie and cheesecake, the Instant Pot Apple Pie Cheesecake is a dream come true. It’s a creamy, spiced, apple-studded sensation that cooks up perfectly in the pressure cooker. This dessert is fall’s favorite flavors in every decadent bite.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Apple Pie Cheesecake

Apple Monkey Bread Muffins

Cinnamon sugar monkey bread muffin on a white plate.
Apple Monkey Bread Muffins. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Apple monkey bread muffins are a playful twist on a beloved bake. Pull apart these sweet, sticky treats to find warm, cinnamon-laced apple pieces. They’re like personal-sized monkey breads that make sharing (or not) a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Apple Monkey Bread Muffins

Air Fryer Apple Crisp

Air Fryer Apple Crisp. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.
Air Fryer Apple Crisp. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

An air fryer apple crisp that’s as satisfying as the oven-baked version, but ready in a fraction of the time. It’s perfect for a last-minute dessert craving, with all the classic flavors of fall. Just add a scoop of ice cream on top for the ultimate treat.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Crisp

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Apple desserts better than pie.
anne

Hi, I’m Anne!

I love to cook and I want to share my recipes with you. I believe cooking should be approachable and fun, not a chore. I want to make simple recipes using everyday ingredients that you can make again and again, whether it is for a busy weeknight, a summer cookout or a special dessert. Read more...

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