Aside from bronze-hued foliage, cozy pajamas and cooler temperatures (summer was no freaking joke), our favorite fall arrival is an assortment of seasonally thematic snacks. And while pumpkin spice may be the Regina George of all flavors (overly aggressive, yet unabashedly so), there are plenty of other autumnal ingredients and seasonings to consider if a hunger pang strikes while hiking, navigating a corn maze or apple-picking.
Below are six sweet and savory options that we already can’t stop noshing on. And the best part of all? They each come from small businesses that ship nationally. Consider it our early holiday gift to you.
Michele's Granola Mystical Magical Matcha
Michele’s Granola prides itself on hand-packing every batch of its delicious homemade granola, following through on a mission to support local food production and employment. In addition to a collection of innovative flavors like lemon pistachio, cherry chocolate and ginger hemp, the brand releases limited-edition fall varieties like salted maple pecan and pumpkin spice. But what we really can’t stop eating is their maple pecan oat and nut butter, a spreadable granola that can be put on toast, pancakes or whatever morning carb you fancy to start your day.
Firehook Crackers
If you prefer a thinner cracker as part of a fall-themed charcuterie board, Mediterranean-inspired Firehook Crackers are an entertaining must-have. These come in a selection of savory flavors like rosemary sea salt and garlic thyme to complement cheeses, cured meats and dips, but it’s the company’s new crispy graham offering that has everyone talking. Use them in place of your go-to graham cracker for a more artisanal (and scrumptious, frankly) take on the classic s’more.
Beth's Farm Kitchen Jams, Preserves and Chutneys
Butters and jams and chutneys, oh my! Those who enjoy dipping and spreading their way through autumn will be tickled to receive a jar from Beth’s Farm Kitchen. The ethically minded company boasts an impressive array of fall-themed condiments like apple butter, fig jam, hot plum chutney and even a cranberry horseradish relish. Serve them on that aforementioned charcuterie board or gift them as sets during the holidays for the fabulous foodie in your life who is always looking for the next best product.
Jackson's Sweet Potato Chips
You may have seen the masterminds behind Jackson’s strike a deal on “Shark Tank,” but the business is so much more than a producer of craveworthy (and healthy!) sweet potato chips. Founders Megan and Scott Reamer developed the recipe to accommodate the very specific dietary needs of their son, Jackson, who was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disorder. Cooked with avocado or coconut oils, the ingredient list is short, but the flavor packs a punch with choices like habanero ranch and spicy jalapeño.
JoJo's Cookie Company Cookies
Petoskey, Michigan-based JoJo’s Cookie Company whips up the cookie of our dreams: soft, chew, and typically stuffed with something fun and decadent like caramel, candy bars and even cream cheese frosting. But its seasonal line of Pumpkin Space, Caramel Apple and Maple Pecan have elevated the brand’s status from adorable small business to “needs to be in every grocery store in the country.” Pro tip: Don’t glance over the bakery’s famous sugar cookie — it’s the sleeper hit of the bunch and will completely change your perception of how a basic ol’ sugar cookie should taste.
Steel City Salt Company Salts, Blends, Herbs and Spices
Any self-proclaimed basic who can’t get enough pumpkin spice will rejoice after stumbling across Steel City Salt Company. The Pittsburgh-based purveyor of salts, spices, rubs and blends has made a name for itself by selling an uber-popular pierogi salt with onion, garlic, chive and dill, but its pumpkin pie spiced sugar is all the rage during the months of September, October and November. Sprinkle it into morning oatmeal or use it to line the glass of your favorite autumnal beverage like a spiked cider or apple martini — there is no wrong way to use it.