Autumn has arrived! Cooler temps, leaves changing color and the harvest festivals are among us. And October and November are also popular months to host a wedding, especially in Arizona, with the perfect weather. With this in mind, I thought I’d share some ideas on fall-inspired cuisine you can serve during your Arizona wedding cocktail hour. Wedding libations and appetizers are vital to keeping your guests satisfied while you’re snapping those wedding photos. So why not marry (yes, an intentional pun :-) the two together by offering seasonal food choices. Here are some of my favorite sips and nibbles.

1. Apple and & Pear Crostini

Crostini’s are the perfect appetizer to satisfy hunger before dinner service. A slice of toasted bread, topped with pear and apple slices then finished with chopped walnuts looks scrumptious. You could also add some apple butter or goat cheese as well. Give your Arizona wedding guests something that will satisfy their taste buds!

2. Pumpkin Egg Rolls

Another hearty appetizer option is pumpkin egg rolls. This easy yet yummy recipe consists of pumpkin puree, cream cheese, vanilla and sugar. The rolls are then fried and topped with powdered sugar. You could also use cinnamon sugar or a dollop of whip cream for an appetizer/dessert combo.

3. Candied Apple Slices

A sweet treat that your guests will not only love but will take them back to childhood is candied apples. This simple to make appetizer can be made of varying ingredients. Whether caramel-dipped sprinkled with nuts, dark chocolate covered with coconut, or white chocolate topped with crumbles it will sure to be a guest favorite! 

4. Pumpkin Pie Bites

Pumpkin pie and autumn just go together like Mikey and Minnie. With this nosh option, you take the classic pumpkin pie filling, add a flaky crust and top with a dollop of whip cream and sprinkle of cinnamon. And there you have it…a treat that can serve as either an appetizer or dessert.

5. Apple Cider Mimosas

All these yummy delights need a great drink to pair with them. An apple cider mimosa made of cider, champagne and garnished with cinnamon sugar on the rim and an apple slice is the perfect accoutrement to the appetizers featured here.

If you’re getting married in the fall, no matter in Arizona or beyond, take advantage of this amazing time of year with tasty appetizers! Talk to your caterer about the possibilities of serving these, or other ideas they may have, at your wedding. And don’t forget, an Arizona wedding coordinator can help keep all these details organized on the day-of so you can relax and soak in the love.

Happy Planning! Janet