We’re thinking about baking this weekend, and have a few, sweet staples that we really love this time of year. Here are our top three.

Swig Pumpkin CookieS

When I tried The Faux Martha’s recipe last year, these cookies were an instant hit in our house, with just the right, light amount of pumpkin topped with a delicious cream cheese frosting. Visit one of my favorite blogs for the full recipe, photos and tips (and lots more seasonal baking inspiration).

Simplified tip: These cookies are delicious unfrosted (but I can’t resist a good cream cheese frosting!) and they taste best when made a day or two in advance.

Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Bread MIX

If you’re a TJ’s customer, then you know that this is one of its best bread mixes. I bake a few loaves at a time and freeze for easy breakfasts. I’ve tried, and whatever I do from scratch is never as good as this mix, which only requires water, oil and two eggs.

Simplified tip: Stock up on a few boxes now - they go fast! Make mini loaves in November (one box yields ~three mini loaves) and freeze until December. Eventually, let thaw, then make semi-homemade by drizzling with maple glaze and package loaves to gift to neighbors and friends for the holidays.

Caramel Cream Cheese Dip with Sliced Apples

This is an old recipe that was passed around dear friends more than 20 years ago, and it’s one we make every Halloween night. There are a handful of versions of this recipe online, and a stand mixer makes it really easy. Here’s what you need:

• 16. oz tub of caramel dip

• 8 oz. brick of cream cheese at room temperature

• 1/2 cup cup brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• Heath toffee bits, a couple good handfuls

• A few Granny Smith or Honey Crisp apples, sliced

Mix caramel, cream cheese, sugar and vanilla in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until smooth and creamy. Fold in toffee bits and serve with sliced apples for dipping.

Simplified tip: Buy pre-sliced apples to bring this together even quicker! I recommend to go tart with the apples because this dip is so sweet, but oh so good.

About Simplified Seasons: in this series, less is more, and I’ll be sharing simple traditions and my favorite projects that honor the changes that come with the flip of the calendar, preserve my sanity and bring the joy!