When the leaves are crunchy and the scarves come out of hiding, I want warm and comforting food that hugs me from the inside. The recipes circulating on Pinterest this time of year all look drool worthy, but a bit decadent for everyday. These are lighter, but still extremely tasty and comforting dishes.

Spiced soup. It's this time of year that pumpkins explode all over every menu - pumpkin cookies, pumpkin bread and the ever-decadent-always-delicious pumpkin spice latte. I love pumpkin, but for this dish I use pumpkin's forgotten about cousin - butternut squash. This soup is flavorful and versatile and light while still being satisfying fall fare. I've made this vegan, but you can also make it vegetarian by using traditional dairy products. We had family stay with us recently who are oil-free vegans and we were also able to modify it for their dietary needs. Serve this Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with crusty bread and a green salad for a satisying weeknight meal.

*photo and recipe used with permission from GirlMakesFood 

Bread. Bread. Bread. If you aren't afraid of carbs or gluten intolerant, you will most definitely want to try these easy homemade bread recipes. If I plan ahead, I make this Crusty Bread recipe that comes out so unbelievably gorgeous that I can fool people into thinking that I'm a decent baker.

*photo and recipe used with permission from Simply So Good

If I forget to start the dough the night before or need a last minute accompaniment to a meal, I whip up these 30 Minute Rolls. These are the fastest yeast rolls I have ever made, and vegan to boot.

*photo and recipe used with permission from Your HomeBased Mom

Vegetables any which way. I credit my girls obsession with broccoli to the consistent presence of green on our dinner plates and simply prepared, appealing vegetable dishes. We keep vegetables easy by roasting or lightly steaming with a dab of coconut oil and a dash of sea salt.

Amazing little cookies. Our home is largely dairy free and I'm always seeking out not too complicated dairy free desserts so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat for special occasions. I made these for a party and later for Thanksgiving and they disappeared quickly thanks to non-dairy and dairy eaters alike. This slightly sweet and robustly flavorful cookie is perfect with a cup of coffee or tea. You'll be glad to have some of this Soft Molasses Coconut Oil Crinkle Cookie dough in your freezer, ready to pop in the oven for unexpected company.

*photo credit Averie Cooks

None of these recipe links have been sponsored, just sharing these talented folks' recipes because they are genuinely that delicious! They have all been in my fall menu rotation along with plenty of broth based soups. What are your go-to nourishing comfort foods in the colder months?