Delicious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares Recipe
If you’re searching for a fall-inspired dessert that everyone can enjoy — even those avoiding gluten — you have to try these Delicious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares! Soft, moist, and brimming with warming spices, each slice captures all the comfort of pumpkin pie, but in a handheld, cake-like treat. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy gathering or prepping ahead for weekday snacks, these squares will quickly become a household favorite for their irresistible flavor and glorious texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple pantry staples, but every ingredient has a special role to play — from boosting flavor to perfecting that tender crumb. Don’t skip or swap without checking notes, because each addition creates the magic that makes these Delicious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares so delightful!
- Pumpkin Purée: The heart of the recipe, lending rich color, moisture, and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
- Brown Sugar (packed): Adds a deep caramel-like sweetness and a touch of chewiness to each bite.
- Large Eggs: Essential for binding everything together and giving the squares a lovely structure.
- Vegetable Oil: Keeps the squares wonderfully moist and helps them stay fresh for days.
- Vanilla Extract: Infuses the batter with a cozy, comforting aroma that enhances all the other flavors.
- Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend (with xanthan gum): Gives the bars their tender crumb; make sure your blend includes xanthan gum for the best texture.
- Baking Soda: Works with the baking powder to create a light, fluffy lift.
- Baking Powder: Another leavening agent that helps the squares rise perfectly.
- Salt: Just a pinch brings all the sweet and spicy flavors to life.
- Ground Cinnamon: The signature spice for any pumpkin treat — it ties everything together with warmth.
- Ground Nutmeg: Lends a sweet, nutty undertone that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
- Ground Ginger: Adds a tiny pop of zest and brightness for balance.
- Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (optional): For a lovely crunch in every bite; your choice, or skip if you prefer nut-free.
How to Make Delicious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F so it’s perfectly hot when your batter is ready. Take out an 8×8-inch baking dish and either grease it with a bit of oil or line it neatly with parchment paper for hassle-free removal later. This step sets the stage for perfect, square-shaped treats!
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin purée, packed brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk them all together until you have a smooth, creamy mixture with no visible streaks of egg or sugar. This lush blend is where all the moist, rich flavor begins for your Delicious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together your gluten-free flour blend, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This little extra step ensures your leaveners and spices distribute evenly, so each bite bursts with autumnal warmth and rises just right in the oven.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Tip the dry mixture into the wet, and gently fold everything together using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix; just stir until you don’t see any streaks of flour. If you’re adding nuts, fold them in now for extra crunch and a bit of rustic character.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Slide it into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the top springs back lightly to the touch, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let everything cool completely in the pan, then slice your Delicious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares and get ready to indulge!
How to Serve Delicious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares
Garnishes
For a simple and elegant touch, dust the tops with a light snowfall of powdered sugar just before serving. If you want to go all out, a swoosh of tangy cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of maple glaze will elevate the squares from snack-time treat to party-ready dessert. Don’t forget a sprinkle of extra chopped nuts for a pretty finish!
Side Dishes
Pair these squares with a mug of chai tea or a creamy pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate cozy afternoon break. They’re also lovely alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt at brunch. Since they’re not overly sweet, they fit in beautifully with any fall-inspired buffet spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the squares small for bite-sized pumpkin petit fours, or use a festive cookie cutter to make pumpkin or leaf shapes for a fall party platter. For an extra treat, layer squares with whipped cream in parfait glasses and top with spiced nuts — instant pumpkin trifles!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These Delicious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares stay perfectly moist for several days. Just pop them into an airtight container and keep at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, store them in the fridge — you’ll love how the flavors deepen over time.
Freezing
Freezing is a breeze! Wait for the squares to cool completely, then wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and freeze for up to two months. Defrost at room temperature, and they’ll taste just like freshly baked.
Reheating
To enjoy that just-baked texture, gently warm the squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in a low oven (300°F) for a few minutes. This trick brings back their signature softness — so delightful for chilly mornings!
FAQs
Can I use homemade pumpkin purée instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin purée works beautifully in Delicious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid for the right texture, as homemade can sometimes be a bit wetter than canned.
What if my gluten-free flour blend doesn’t have xanthan gum?
If your flour doesn’t include xanthan gum, add 1/4 teaspoon to the dry ingredients. This ingredient acts as a binder and helps give the squares structure, so they hold together like classic bars.
Are there nut-free alternatives for crunch?
For a nut-free crunch, try folding in pumpkin seeds or even toasty sunflower seeds! You’ll get that satisfying bite while keeping the recipe allergy-friendly for everyone.
How do I know when the squares are done baking?
Start checking at the 25-minute mark. When a toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, and the top is springy, your Delicious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares are ready to enjoy.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
You sure can! Double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adjusting the bake time to about 35–40 minutes. Keep an eye on the center for doneness, and you’ll have plenty to share.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so heartwarming about sharing a plate of Delicious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares with people you love. I hope this recipe brings a touch of cozy joy to your kitchen — and maybe even becomes one of your most-requested fall treats! Don’t hesitate to give them a try, and watch how quickly they disappear.
Print
Delicious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 squares 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these scrumptious gluten-free pumpkin squares that are perfect for fall. Moist, flavorful, and easy to make, they make a delightful dessert or snack.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Squares:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin purée
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix gluten-free flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Fold in nuts if desired.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the dish, spread evenly, and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool before slicing into squares.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for lasting freshness.
- Consider adding cream cheese frosting for a decadent touch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
