Fall is one of the best times of the year because you get to prepare delicious and heartwarming recipes for yourself and your loved ones. Whether you’re indulging in apple pie or a savory stew, fall recipes will fill your belly and warm your soul.

Apple Spice Pancakes

Apples are at their peak of freshness in the fall. Local grocery stores and fruit stands will be bursting with a wide range of apple varieties, from tart Granny Smiths to sweet Honey Crisps. Pick your favorite and try this recipe for Apple Spice Pancakes.

In a mixing bowl, combine:

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg

In another bowl, combine:

• 1 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup grated apples

Fold the wet mixture with the dry mixture. Using a small ladle, pour the pancake batter into a heated non-stick skillet. Cook the pancakes until you see bubbles form or 2-3 minutes on both sides. Serve with butter, maple syrup, and more apple slices.

Roasted Squash Soup

Nothing says fall like hearty winter squash, and nothing is more comforting on a chilly day than a warm bowl of soup. Combine these two fall pleasures by making this simple Roasted Squash Soup.

Heat oven to 375 degrees. In a Dutch oven or large oven-proof saucepan toss:

• 2 seeded and quartered winter squashes. (Kabocha, Kuri, Butternut, or Acorn)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 medium carrots, roughly chopped
• 2 apples or pears, cored and roughly chopped
• 6 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)

Place pot in oven and roast uncovered 1 to 1 ½ hours or until squash is very tender. Place pot on stovetop and add:

• 6 cups chicken stock or water
• Blend ingredients using an immersion blender, standing blender, or food processor. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy with a little maple syrup or extra olive oil.

Pumpkin Spice Muffins

When autumn arrives, it's hard to resist the allure of pumpkin-flavored treats. These muffins are a delightful addition to your fall recipe collection.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice pinch of salt.

In a separate bowl, combine:

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 eggs.

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and gently fold them together until just combined. Spoon the batter into muffin cups and bake at 350 degrees for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

At Careage, we love celebrating the seasons with fun activities, parties, and delicious seasonal foods. Take a tour of one of our premier senior living communities and stay for a meal!