If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, sweet treat that embraces the flavors of fall without any gluten worries, this Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is exactly what you need. Each bite is a tender, moist pumpkin-infused square topped with luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances the warm spices. It’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly afternoon and simple enough to whip up any time you crave that comforting pumpkin goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is a breeze for this recipe, and each one plays a crucial role in creating those moist, flavorful pumpkin squares with the sweetest cream cheese topping you can imagine.
- Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, providing moisture, natural sweetness, and that unmistakable autumn flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps tenderize the crumb.
- Brown sugar: Brings a touch of molasses-like depth and extra moisture.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the fluffy texture.
- Vegetable or coconut oil: Keeps the squares moist and tender without overpowering the pumpkin.
- Vanilla extract: Lends a warm, aromatic touch that enhances all the other flavors.
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour blend: The foundation for a perfect gluten-free texture that holds the squares together.
- Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents ensure the squares rise nicely and stay light.
- Pumpkin pie spice: A warm mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that makes the pumpkin sing.
- Cinnamon: Adds an extra hint of spice and warmth.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and amps up the flavors.
- Cream cheese: For a creamy, tangy frosting that complements the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: Creates a smooth, rich texture in the frosting.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for easy spreading.
How to Make Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking once your batter’s ready. Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for an easy cleanup and perfect square removal.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This blend is the heart of your batter, where moisture meets sweetness for that perfect texture.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, whisk together your gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Keeping the dry ingredients separate ensures even flavor and perfect rise when incorporated.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients into your wet mixture, stirring just until everything is combined. Overmixing can make the squares dense, so stop as soon as you don’t see any flour.
Step 5: Pour and Spread the Batter
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking and beautifully formed squares.
Step 6: Bake Until Perfect
Bake your pumpkin squares for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the squares cool completely in the pan so the frosting doesn’t melt when spread.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat together softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl until you achieve a smooth and creamy frosting. This frosting is the crowning glory that adds an irresistible tangy sweetness.
Step 8: Frost and Cut
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin squares. Once frosted, cut into 12 neat squares and get ready to enjoy every bite of this delightful treat.
How to Serve Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, try adding a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top. A few pumpkin seeds can add both texture and a rustic look that’s perfect for fall presentations.
Side Dishes
Serve these pumpkin squares alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. If serving as a snack, a warm cup of chai or coffee pairs beautifully to complement the spices.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gatherings, arrange the squares on a rustic wooden board or use mini cupcake liners for individual servings. You can also drizzle a bit of honey or caramel sauce over the frosting for a decadent touch that dazzles the eyes and the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover pumpkin squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh and prevent drying out. They will stay delicious for up to 4 days, making them a perfect ready-to-eat snack or dessert anytime.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these treats even later, freeze unfrosted pumpkin squares by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw fully before frosting with cream cheese to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
For a quick warm treat, reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. If reheated with frosting, it softens beautifully, bringing out all the cozy pumpkin flavors.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it first, making sure to remove excess moisture for the best texture in your pumpkin squares.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
The recipe includes cream cheese and butter in the frosting, which are dairy products. To make it dairy-free, you can substitute with dairy-free cream cheese and margarine alternatives.
What gluten-free flour blend works best for this recipe?
A well-balanced gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum included works best to provide structure and prevent crumbling in these pumpkin squares.
Can I make these squares vegan?
You can adapt the recipe by replacing eggs with flax or chia eggs and using dairy-free alternatives for cream cheese and butter. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.
How spicy are these pumpkin squares?
The pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon add a warm, gentle spice rather than heat, making these squares comforting and flavorful without overpowering anyone’s palate.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, it’s going to become a go-to favorite for every pumpkin craving and special occasion. The moist, fragrant squares paired with the creamy frosting offer a cozy, sweet experience that’s both comforting and delightful. I can’t wait for you to taste these and share them with your friends and family!
Print
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Squares with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These delicious gluten-free pumpkin squares are moist, flavorful, and perfect for a fall dessert. Made with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a creamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting, they are a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy, especially those following a gluten-free diet.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Squares
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the pumpkin squares.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the squares dense.
- Pour and spread batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake the pumpkin squares: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
- Frost and serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin squares. Cut into 12 squares and serve as a delicious gluten-free treat.
Notes
- Ensure the pumpkin puree is smooth for the best texture.
- Use gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to keep the recipe gluten-free.
- Let the pumpkin squares cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives.
