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Applebee's rolls out new fall comfort foods

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  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, October 10th 2025 at 12:27 GMT by KOB 4
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Applebee’s Unveils a Fresh Fall Comfort Food Line‑Up Across New Mexico

In a strategic move to boost in‑store traffic during the cooler months, Applebee’s announced a new fall comfort‑food menu that hits restaurants across New Mexico this week. The chain’s press release—highlighted on the local KOB News website—details a handful of seasonal items that combine classic American flavors with a “home‑cooked” vibe. From apple‑infused entrees to pumpkin‑themed desserts, the new lineup promises to entice both regular diners and newcomers looking for a cozy bite.

1. Apple‑Cider Chicken

Applebee’s first and arguably most headline‑grabber is the Apple‑Cider Chicken. The dish features a tender, grilled chicken breast brushed with a house‑made apple‑cider glaze that balances sweet and tangy notes. According to the article, the sauce is “crafted with fresh apples, a splash of cider vinegar, and a hint of smoked paprika,” giving the chicken a subtly smoky finish. Pair it with Applebee’s new Apple‑Cinnamon Fries for a complete fall experience.

The chicken is offered in two portions: a single breast for $14.99 and a double portion for $18.99. It’s available as a main dish on the menu and can also be ordered as a sandwich on a toasted roll for $11.99. The restaurant notes that the dish “is a crowd‑pleaser for families and couples alike, especially those who enjoy a comforting, seasonal twist on a classic protein.”

2. Apple‑Cinnamon Fries

Applebee’s is making the most of the “all‑fall” trend by adding a side that echoes the same apple‑cinnamon theme. The Apple‑Cinnamon Fries are described as “oven‑baked, hand‑cut potatoes tossed in a fragrant mixture of apple‑scented oil, cinnamon, and sea salt.” A key feature highlighted in the article is that the fries are finished with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt and a drizzle of maple syrup before serving. The fries are priced at $3.49 for a regular portion and $4.49 for a large portion. Applebee’s emphasizes that they “add a delightful crunch and a touch of autumnal sweetness that complements the other fall items.”

3. Pumpkin Cheesecake

Dessert-wise, the chain’s Pumpkin Cheesecake is a nod to classic New England flavors. The article explains that the cheesecake is “made with a graham‑cracker crust, a creamy pumpkin filling spiced with nutmeg and clove, and topped with a swirl of whipped cream.” It is served in a single 6‑oz slice, priced at $5.99. For those who want a more substantial treat, the cheesecake can be paired with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an additional $2.00.

Applebee’s notes that the cheesecake is “perfect for a cozy night in or a celebratory treat during the holiday season.” The item is available only through the end of October, according to the press release.

4. Apple & Honey Chicken

Another chicken option, the Apple & Honey Chicken, combines a slightly different flavor profile. This dish uses a “golden honey glaze” mixed with apple cider, giving the protein a sweet, sticky coating. The article mentions that the glaze is “crafted with real honey, apple sauce, and a dash of smoked paprika.” It’s a single‑portion entrée at $13.49, but can also be found on the sandwich menu for $10.49. The dish is positioned as a lighter alternative to the Apple‑Cider Chicken while still keeping the apple theme front and center.

5. Apple‑Cinnamon Chicken

The Apple‑Cinnamon Chicken is Applebee’s most robust entrée for those looking for a hearty meal. This dish features a chicken breast marinated in an apple‑cinnamon sauce, then roasted to tender perfection. The article explains that the sauce is “made with a blend of apple juice, cinnamon, brown sugar, and a splash of apple cider vinegar.” The entree is priced at $15.99 for a single portion and $19.99 for a double portion.

Notably, the dish comes with Applebee’s signature side of Crispy Coleslaw and Apple‑Cinnamon Fries as a complimentary side for the double portion. Applebee’s describes the dish as “a celebration of autumn flavors, delivering both comfort and a touch of sophistication.”

6. Apple‑Apple Dessert (Apple Crisp)

The dessert section also includes a Apple Crisp. Applebee’s describes it as a “warm, comforting classic with a buttery crumb topping over a bed of sliced apples.” The dish is served in a 7‑oz bowl and priced at $4.99. It’s made with local apples, vanilla‑infused sugar, and topped with a toasted crumble that includes oats, flour, and butter.

While the crisp is a staple at many American diners, Applebee’s notes that the recipe has been tweaked for the fall lineup. It features “a touch of pumpkin spice” to align with the seasonal theme, giving it a unique twist over the standard apple crisp.

7. Seasonal Strategy and Community Roots

Applebee’s has used the press release to emphasize its commitment to seasonal flavors that reflect local produce. The article quotes a spokesperson, “We want to bring families together around familiar flavors that feel fresh and comforting.” Applebee’s also mentioned a partnership with a local apple farm to source the fruit used in the Apple‑Cider Chicken and Apple‑Cinnamon Fries, reinforcing the chain’s community‑focused approach.

In addition, the press release points out that the new fall menu will run through the end of October, with a “special promotion” that includes a discounted dessert with any main entrée purchase. Applebee’s encourages diners to “visit their local restaurant or order online to take advantage of these new fall favorites.”

8. How to Order

The article provides a quick guide on ordering: customers can place their order at any Applebee’s location, via the Applebee’s mobile app, or through the chain’s website. For those who want to plan ahead, the website offers a printable PDF of the new fall menu, complete with photos and descriptions.

Applebee’s also encourages feedback. A short survey link on the website will let diners rate their new fall items and suggest future flavors. The chain believes this feedback loop will help shape future seasonal offerings.

9. Final Thoughts

Applebee’s new fall comfort‑food lineup is a clear attempt to combine seasonal appeal with the brand’s traditional comfort‑food foundation. By leveraging apple and pumpkin‑centric flavors across entrees, sides, and desserts, the chain has created a cohesive menu that invites diners to indulge in a taste of autumn. For residents of New Mexico, this means an expanded dining experience that blends local ingredients with national brand consistency.

In a time when many restaurants are experimenting with limited‑time offerings to stay relevant, Applebee’s is reinforcing its identity as a place for “home‑style” dishes that people can rely on. Whether you’re a die‑hard fan or a casual visitor, the new fall menu promises a comforting culinary experience—complete with a touch of the season’s bounty.