Fall is the perfect season for outdoor gatherings. The crisp air, colorful leaves, and cozy atmosphere make picnics extra special.
One of the easiest ways to enjoy a seasonal meal outdoors is with sandwiches that capture the flavors of autumn.
From sweet apples and pears to savory roasted vegetables, turkey, and cheeses, fall-inspired sandwiches can be hearty, comforting, and portable.
In this article, we’ve compiled 21 fall picnic sandwich recipes that are perfect for lunchboxes, blankets in the park, or even a cozy backyard gathering.
Each sandwich balances seasonal flavors and textures, combining creamy spreads, crisp produce, and savory proteins for an unforgettable picnic experience.
21 Easy and Flavorful Fall Sandwich Recipes To Try

These 21 fall picnic sandwich recipes are perfect for capturing the essence of autumn in every bite.
Whether you prefer sweet, savory, or vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy outdoors.
The combination of seasonal ingredients, comforting textures, and portable formats makes them ideal for picnics, weekend outings, or even a cozy lunch at home.
Pack your favorite sandwiches, grab a blanket, and savor the flavors of fall with friends and family.
Autumn Harvest Turkey Sandwich
This sandwich is the perfect blend of savory and sweet, capturing the essence of fall with roasted turkey, crisp apples, and a touch of cranberry.
It’s ideal for a cozy outdoor picnic when the leaves are turning and the air is crisp.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices whole grain bread
- 1 cup roasted turkey breast, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons whole cranberry sauce
- 1 small apple, thinly sliced (preferably Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- Handful of fresh spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Lay out the slices of bread on a clean surface. Spread cream cheese evenly on two slices and Dijon mustard on the other two.
- Place the spinach leaves on one slice of cream cheese-spread bread. Layer with turkey slices, making sure they cover the bread evenly.
- Arrange thin apple slices on top of the turkey, then spread cranberry sauce over the apple layer. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Top with the second slice of bread, mustard side down, pressing gently to combine all layers.
- Cut the sandwich diagonally for a classic picnic presentation. Wrap in parchment paper or place in a sandwich container for easy transport.
This autumn harvest turkey sandwich is a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Sweet, tart, and savory all at once, it’s a picnic-friendly meal that evokes the cozy, colorful spirit of fall.
Butternut Squash and Pecan Sandwich
A vegetarian fall favorite, this sandwich features roasted butternut squash, creamy goat cheese, and toasted pecans.
Its warm, nutty flavors and soft textures make it a comforting choice for a picnic.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices rustic sourdough bread
- 1/2 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed
- 2 tablespoons goat cheese
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons toasted pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Handful of arugula
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed butternut squash with a little olive oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender. Let cool slightly.
- Spread goat cheese evenly over one slice of bread. Drizzle honey over the goat cheese for a subtle sweetness.
- Layer the roasted butternut squash on top of the cheese. Sprinkle toasted pecans and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add arugula for a fresh, peppery crunch. Place the second slice of bread on top, pressing gently.
- Slice in half and wrap for your picnic, or serve immediately if eating fresh.
This butternut squash and pecan sandwich is a perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and sweet.
It’s a unique vegetarian option that embodies the cozy flavors of fall, perfect for an outdoor meal.
Maple Bacon Apple Sandwich
Crispy bacon, crisp apple slices, and a hint of maple come together in this indulgent yet simple sandwich.
The combination is sweet, salty, and savory—a fall picnic essential.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices multigrain bread
- 4 slices cooked bacon
- 1 small apple, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Handful of baby spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Spread cream cheese evenly on one slice of bread. Drizzle maple syrup over the cream cheese for a sweet accent.
- Spread Dijon mustard on the second slice of bread.
- Layer baby spinach on the cream cheese slice, followed by apple slices and bacon. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Top with the second slice of bread, mustard side down, and press gently.
- Slice the sandwich diagonally and wrap securely for a picnic or place in a container.
The maple bacon apple sandwich is the ultimate fall flavor combination—sweet, savory, and crisp.
It’s hearty enough for a midday picnic and bursting with seasonal charm.
Roasted Veggie and Hummus Sandwich
This colorful sandwich is packed with roasted fall vegetables and creamy hummus, making it a healthy and satisfying picnic option.
It’s full of autumnal flavors and textures that are both hearty and fresh.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices whole wheat bread
- 1/2 cup roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots)
- 3 tablespoons hummus (any flavor)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Handful of fresh spinach or arugula
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss chopped vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized. Allow to cool slightly.
- Spread hummus evenly on one slice of bread. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the hummus for a tangy finish.
- Layer roasted vegetables on top of the hummus. Add fresh spinach or arugula for a crisp bite.
- Top with the second slice of bread and press gently.
- Slice the sandwich diagonally and wrap in parchment or a picnic container.
This roasted veggie and hummus sandwich is a vibrant, wholesome option for fall picnics.
Each bite is rich with roasted sweetness, earthy flavors, and a creamy hummus finish.
Cranberry Chicken Salad Sandwich
A classic twist on chicken salad, this sandwich incorporates dried cranberries, celery, and a hint of fall spices for a sweet and savory flavor profile.
Perfect for an easy and elegant picnic meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices sandwich bread or croissant
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons dried cranberries
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, cranberries, celery, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spread the chicken salad evenly on one slice of bread.
- Add a layer of fresh lettuce on top of the chicken salad.
- Cover with the second slice of bread and press gently. Slice in half for easy serving.
- Wrap for your picnic or enjoy immediately.
The cranberry chicken salad sandwich is a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and crunchy. It’s a satisfying and festive choice for a fall picnic.
Brie, Pear, and Arugula Sandwich
This sophisticated sandwich combines creamy brie, sweet pear, and peppery arugula for a refined picnic experience.
It’s simple to assemble but offers complex, seasonal flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices rustic baguette or ciabatta bread
- 2–3 slices brie cheese
- 1 small pear, thinly sliced
- Handful of arugula
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Spread Dijon mustard on one slice of bread. Drizzle honey over the other slice.
- Layer brie slices on the mustard side. Add thin pear slices on top of the brie.
- Place arugula over the pear and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Top with the second slice of bread, honey side down, and press gently.
- Slice and wrap for a picnic or serve immediately.
The brie, pear, and arugula sandwich is elegant, balanced, and bursting with fall flavors.
Its creamy, sweet, and peppery notes make it a standout picnic treat.
Pumpkin Turkey Club Sandwich
This seasonal twist on the classic club sandwich uses roasted turkey, crisp bacon, and a subtly spiced pumpkin spread.
It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a fall picnic.
Ingredients:
- 3 slices whole wheat or multigrain bread
- 1 cup roasted turkey breast, sliced
- 2 slices cooked bacon
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- Handful of spinach or lettuce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix pumpkin puree with maple syrup. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Toast the bread slices lightly. Spread pumpkin mixture on one slice of bread.
- Layer turkey, bacon, and spinach on top of the pumpkin-spread slice.
- Top with the second slice of bread and add more turkey if desired. Finish with the third slice of bread.
- Press gently and slice diagonally for serving or packing.
The pumpkin turkey club sandwich delivers a warm, comforting taste of fall in every bite. Sweet, savory, and crunchy, it’s a picnic-ready delight.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Sandwich
This vegetarian sandwich is filled with roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and a creamy avocado spread.
It’s wholesome, filling, and packed with autumn flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices whole grain bread
- 1/2 cup roasted sweet potato cubes
- 1/4 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 avocado, mashed
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- Handful of baby spinach
- Salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for 20–25 minutes until tender.
- Mash avocado with lime juice, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on one slice of bread.
- Layer roasted sweet potatoes and black beans on the avocado. Add baby spinach on top.
- Place the second slice of bread on top, press gently, and slice for your picnic.
This sweet potato and black bean sandwich is earthy, creamy, and slightly smoky—a delicious vegetarian option for fall picnics.
Apple Cheddar Chicken Sandwich
Crisp apples and sharp cheddar elevate a simple chicken sandwich into a sweet and savory fall delight.
Perfect for an outdoor meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices whole grain or sourdough bread
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced
- 2 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 small apple, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Handful of lettuce or spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Spread Dijon mustard on one slice of bread. Layer lettuce, chicken, cheddar, and apple slices.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Top with the second slice of bread and press gently. Slice diagonally.
- Wrap or pack for a picnic.
This apple cheddar chicken sandwich balances savory, sweet, and crisp textures. It’s a classic fall combination that’s both satisfying and portable.
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Sandwich
Earthy roasted beets and creamy goat cheese come together in this elegant vegetarian sandwich.
It’s colorful, flavorful, and perfect for a fall picnic spread.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices whole grain or rye bread
- 1/2 cup roasted beets, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons goat cheese
- 1 teaspoon balsamic glaze
- Handful of arugula or spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Roast beets at 400°F (200°C) for 30–35 minutes until tender. Let cool, then slice thinly.
- Spread goat cheese on one slice of bread and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Layer roasted beet slices on top of the goat cheese, then add arugula.
- Cover with the second slice of bread, press gently, and slice.
The roasted beet and goat cheese sandwich is a visually stunning and flavorful option for fall picnics.
Its creamy, earthy, and slightly tangy layers are unforgettable.
Maple Ham and Brie Sandwich
This sandwich pairs salty ham with creamy brie and a touch of maple syrup for a sweet and savory fall treat. It’s simple yet decadent for a picnic meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices multigrain or sourdough bread
- 3–4 slices cooked ham
- 2–3 slices brie cheese
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- Handful of arugula
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Spread a thin layer of maple syrup on one slice of bread. Layer ham and brie on top.
- Add arugula and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Top with the second slice of bread, press gently, and slice diagonally.
- Wrap or pack for a picnic.
Maple ham and brie sandwiches are an easy way to enjoy sweet and savory fall flavors outdoors.
The creamy brie melts slightly, blending perfectly with ham and maple.
Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Sandwich
This vegetarian sandwich features savory caramelized onions and sautéed mushrooms with melted cheese, creating a rich, fall-inspired flavor perfect for a cozy picnic.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices rustic bread (sourdough or ciabatta)
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup caramelized onions
- 2 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Handful of arugula
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté mushrooms until soft and golden.
- Add caramelized onions to the mushrooms and cook together for 2–3 minutes.
- Place cheese on one slice of bread, then layer mushroom-onion mixture on top.
- Add arugula and top with the second slice of bread. Press gently and slice for serving.
The caramelized onion and mushroom sandwich is a deeply flavorful, savory option that embodies the warmth of fall.
Rich and hearty, it’s perfect for an outdoor autumn picnic.
Spiced Apple and Cheddar Grilled Sandwich
A warm, melted sandwich featuring sharp cheddar and spiced apple slices. This sandwich is sweet, savory, and perfect for a crisp fall day picnic.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices sourdough or whole wheat bread
- 1 small apple, thinly sliced
- 2 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon butter
Instructions:
- Toss apple slices with cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Butter one side of each bread slice. Place cheese and spiced apple slices between the unbuttered sides of the bread.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and grill the sandwich until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Slice diagonally and serve warm for your picnic.
The spiced apple and cheddar grilled sandwich is a cozy, melty treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite.
Roast Beef, Caramelized Onion, and Horseradish Sandwich
This robust sandwich combines tender roast beef, sweet caramelized onions, and a zesty horseradish spread. It’s hearty, flavorful, and picnic-ready.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices rye or whole grain bread
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced roast beef
- 1/4 cup caramelized onions
- 1 tablespoon horseradish sauce
- Handful of arugula
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Spread horseradish sauce on one slice of bread.
- Layer roast beef, caramelized onions, and arugula. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Top with the second slice of bread and press gently. Slice diagonally for serving.
This roast beef sandwich is rich, tangy, and perfect for those who enjoy bold fall flavors at a picnic.
Cranberry, Brie, and Turkey Panini
A warm, pressed sandwich combining roasted turkey, creamy brie, and tart cranberry sauce—a perfect seasonal picnic option.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices ciabatta or sourdough bread
- 1/2 cup roasted turkey, sliced
- 2 slices brie cheese
- 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce
- Butter for grilling
Instructions:
- Spread cranberry sauce on one slice of bread and layer turkey and brie.
- Top with the second slice of bread. Butter the outside lightly.
- Grill in a panini press or skillet until bread is golden and cheese melts, about 3–5 minutes.
- Slice diagonally and serve warm.
This cranberry, brie, and turkey panini delivers sweet, savory, and melty layers—perfectly seasonal and picnic-friendly.
Pear, Prosciutto, and Arugula Sandwich
Elegant and flavorful, this sandwich features sweet pear, salty prosciutto, and fresh arugula.
A sophisticated fall picnic choice.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices rustic or multigrain bread
- 4 slices prosciutto
- 1 small pear, thinly sliced
- Handful of arugula
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
- Spread Dijon mustard on one slice of bread and drizzle honey on the other.
- Layer prosciutto, pear slices, and arugula on the mustard slice.
- Top with the second slice of bread and press gently. Slice diagonally for serving.
The pear, prosciutto, and arugula sandwich is a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and peppery flavors, ideal for a stylish fall picnic.
Autumn Veggie and Pesto Sandwich
A vibrant vegetarian sandwich featuring roasted fall vegetables and rich basil pesto. Perfect for a flavorful, portable picnic meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices whole grain or ciabatta bread
- 1/2 cup roasted vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto
- Handful of spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Spread pesto on both slices of bread.
- Layer roasted vegetables and spinach on one slice. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Top with the second slice and press gently. Slice for picnic-friendly serving.
The autumn veggie and pesto sandwich is fresh, flavorful, and full of fall-inspired colors—a healthy, delicious picnic option.
Fig, Goat Cheese, and Arugula Sandwich
Sweet figs, creamy goat cheese, and peppery arugula come together for a sophisticated, fall-inspired picnic sandwich.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices multigrain bread
- 3–4 fresh figs, sliced
- 2 tablespoons goat cheese
- Handful of arugula
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Spread goat cheese on one slice of bread. Drizzle honey lightly.
- Layer fig slices and arugula on top. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover with the second slice of bread, press gently, and slice diagonally.
This fig, goat cheese, and arugula sandwich is sweet, creamy, and peppery—a sophisticated and seasonal option perfect for a fall picnic.
Roasted Pear and Blue Cheese Sandwich
This sandwich pairs sweet roasted pears with tangy blue cheese and a hint of honey, creating a rich and flavorful fall picnic treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices rustic whole grain or sourdough bread
- 1 small pear, thinly sliced and roasted
- 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Handful of arugula
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roast pear slices for 10–12 minutes until slightly caramelized.
- Spread blue cheese on one slice of bread and drizzle honey over it.
- Layer roasted pear slices and arugula on top. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Top with the second slice of bread, press gently, and slice diagonally.
The roasted pear and blue cheese sandwich is a sophisticated blend of sweet, tangy, and fresh flavors—perfect for a fall picnic.
Maple Roasted Turkey and Spinach Sandwich
This sandwich features roasted turkey, sweet maple glaze, and fresh spinach, delivering a balanced and hearty picnic meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices whole wheat or multigrain bread
- 1 cup roasted turkey breast, sliced
- 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
- Handful of fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese or mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Spread cream cheese or mayonnaise on one slice of bread. Drizzle maple syrup lightly over it.
- Layer roasted turkey and fresh spinach on top. Season with salt and pepper.
- Top with the second slice of bread and press gently. Slice for picnic serving.
This maple roasted turkey and spinach sandwich combines sweet, savory, and fresh flavors for a satisfying and portable fall meal.
Harvest Veggie and Hummus Wrap
A fall-inspired wrap filled with roasted seasonal vegetables and creamy hummus, perfect for a healthy, portable picnic option.
Ingredients:
- 1 large whole wheat or spinach tortilla
- 1/2 cup roasted vegetables (butternut squash, carrots, and bell peppers)
- 3 tablespoons hummus
- Handful of mixed greens
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon to taste
Instructions:
- Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.
- Spread hummus evenly over the tortilla.
- Layer roasted vegetables and mixed greens on top.
- Roll the tortilla tightly, slice in half, and wrap for your picnic.
The harvest veggie and hummus wrap is nutritious, flavorful, and easy to carry, making it an ideal fall picnic choice.