Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares (Bars)

If you’re looking for a delightful fall treat, you’ve come to the right place! These Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares (Bars) are a true gem in my recipe collection. They are moist, tender, and bursting with pumpkin flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or a sweet treat to share at family gatherings, these bars never disappoint.

What makes these squares so special is the creamy frosting that crowns them. It adds just the right touch of sweetness and makes every bite feel like a celebration. Trust me, once you take a bite of these delicious bars, you’ll want to share them with everyone you know!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these bars in no time. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the taste of these gluten-free pumpkin squares. They are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead: These bars can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Just frost them before serving for an easy dessert!
• Festive Flavor: The warm spices and pumpkin create a cozy flavor that captures the essence of fall. You’ll want to make them all season long!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome items that you might already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious gluten-free pumpkin squares:

For the Pumpkin Squares

• 4 large eggs
• 1 2/3 cups sugar
• 1 cup oil (I used avocado oil)
• 15 oz canned pumpkin
• 2 cups 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp Kosher salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened at room temperature)
• 1/2 cup butter (softened at room temperature)
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Toss in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra sweet surprise in every bite.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
• Nutty Touch: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and texture.
• Fruit Addition: Try adding dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity burst!

How to Make Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares (Bars)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350° F. Greasing TWO 9×13 baking pans with Pam cooking spray will ensure your pumpkin squares release easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk everything together with a fork until well mixed and set aside. This step is important because it ensures all your leavening agents are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, oil, and canned pumpkin until smooth and well combined. This mixture is where all the moisture comes from—essential for those tender pumpkin squares!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Don’t worry if the batter seems liquidy; that’s perfectly normal!

Step 5: Bake!

Pour your batter evenly between the two prepared pans and pop them into the oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let them cool completely before adding that luscious frosting.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

To prepare your cream cheese frosting, beat together softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread this dreamy frosting over your cooled pumpkin cakes before cutting them into squares.

Now you have your very own batch of Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares (Bars) to enjoy! Share them with friends or savor every square yourself—either way, they’re sure to be loved!

Pro Tips for Making Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares (Bars)

Baking gluten-free can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips! Here are some great suggestions to ensure your pumpkin squares turn out perfectly every time.

• Use a quality gluten-free flour blend – Opt for a reliable 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. This helps mimic the structure of traditional wheat flour, resulting in a tender texture.
• Don’t skip the cooling step – Allow your pumpkin squares to cool completely before frosting them. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures that each bite stays beautiful and delicious.
• Measure ingredients accurately – Baking is all about precision. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you’re adding the right amounts, which will lead to consistent results every time.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to add extra spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth and flavor. This can make your pumpkin squares even more festive and aromatic!
• Store properly – To maintain freshness, store the frosted pumpkin squares in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to a week, making them a perfect treat for meal prep or last-minute gatherings!

How to Serve Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares (Bars)

Serving these delightful gluten-free pumpkin squares can be just as fun as making them! Here are some ideas for presenting this festive fall treat.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts – Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
• Cinnamon dusting – A light sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice over the top adds an inviting aroma and enhances the fall essence of the dessert.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warmth of the pumpkin squares, providing a delightful contrast in temperature.
• Fresh fruit salad – A refreshing fruit salad with apples, pears, and berries adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the bars.
• Whipped coconut cream – For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream. It’s light, fluffy, and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Hot spiced cider – On a chilly day, serving these squares alongside hot spiced apple cider creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for gatherings or family time.

Enjoy baking these gluten-free pumpkin squares (bars), and don’t forget to share them with loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

These gluten-free pumpkin squares are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for gatherings or just to have a sweet treat on hand throughout the week. You can easily store them, freeze them, or even reheat them for a delightful snack.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the pumpkin squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you live in a warmer climate, consider refrigerating them to maintain freshness.
• Keep the cream cheese frosting separate until you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

Freezing

• Allow the pumpkin squares to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Add fresh cream cheese frosting after reheating for that just-made taste!

FAQs

Have questions about making these delicious gluten-free pumpkin squares? Here are some common queries answered:

Can I make Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares (Bars) without eggs?

Yes! You can use flax eggs as an egg substitute. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg and let it sit until it thickens.

How long do Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares (Bars) last?

These bars last about 3 days at room temperature or can be refrigerated for up to a week. They also freeze well if you want to keep some on hand longer.

What is the best way to frost Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares (Bars)?

The cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully with these bars. Ensure both your cream cheese and butter are softened at room temperature for smooth spreading.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares (Bars)?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in some chopped walnuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it did me while creating it! These gluten-free pumpkin squares are not only delightful but also perfect for sharing with friends and family during the fall season. Enjoy making these tender treats, and don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or mix-ins. Happy baking!