Historical Overview
Apple casseroles trace their roots back to traditional baked fruit puddings and cobblers enjoyed in colonial America. Apples, being one of the earliest cultivated fruits in the U.S., became a staple in fall and winter recipes. Adding nuts like pecans became popular in the South, where pecan trees thrived. Over time, recipes evolved into cozy baked casseroles that combined fruit, spice, and texture, creating the perfect seasonal dessert or side dish. Today, apple pecan casseroles are a hallmark of fall gatherings, blending rustic tradition with comforting sweetness.
Apple Pecan Fall Casserole – Easy & Delicious Homemade Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
This Apple Cinnamon Fall Casserole is warm, sweet, and irresistibly cozy—perfect for crisp autumn evenings or festive holiday gatherings. With tender apples, a caramel drizzle, crunchy pecans, and a touch of whipped cream, it’s a dessert casserole that feels both rustic and indulgent. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner or enjoying a quiet weekend, this dish brings together classic fall flavors in one easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients
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6 medium apples, sliced thin
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/4 tsp nutmeg
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1/2 cup chopped pecans
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2 tbsp butter, melted
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1/4 cup caramel sauce
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Whipped cream, for topping
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Arrange apple slices evenly.
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In a bowl, mix sugars, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle over apples.
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Drizzle melted butter on top, then cover with foil.
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Bake for 30 minutes, remove foil, sprinkle pecans, and bake an additional 10 minutes.
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Remove from oven, drizzle with caramel sauce, and top with whipped cream.
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Serve warm with a cinnamon stick garnish if desired.
Notes
Swap pecans for walnuts or oats for a crumble-like texture.
Add a splash of vanilla for extra flavor.
Great served with vanilla ice cream.
Common Questions
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate, then bake when ready. Add the caramel and whipped cream right before serving.
2. What apples work best for this recipe?
A mix of sweet and tart apples works beautifully. Try Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji for balanced flavor.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, but without toppings. Assemble and bake the apples first, then let cool and freeze. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, reheat, and add fresh toppings.
