How To Make The Best Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread At Home

Gluten-free pumpkin bread is the perfect way to enjoy the cozy flavors of fall without worrying about gluten. This moist, spiced loaf is packed with warm autumn flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, making it a delicious treat for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Whether you have celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or simply follow a gluten-free diet, this recipe guarantees a soft and fluffy texture without compromising on taste.

This easy gluten-free pumpkin bread is simple to make with everyday ingredients, requiring just one bowl and minimal prep time. You’ll learn the best flour blends for a perfect rise, tips to keep pumpkin bread (gluten-free) from being too dense or dry, and fun variations to customize the flavor. Plus, we’ll share expert baking advice and answer common questions to ensure your baking success.

Looking for more delicious baked goods? Check out our Lemon Bundt Cake recipe, a perfect balance of tangy and sweet!

Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to baking gluten-free pumpkin bread at home!

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread

If you’re looking for a delicious, easy, and foolproof gluten-free pumpkin bread, this recipe is for you! It’s perfect for fall, packed with warm spices, and made with simple ingredients that come together in just one bowl. Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or just love a good homemade loaf, here’s why this recipe stands out.

Naturally Moist and Flavorful

• The combination of pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves gives this bread a rich, spiced flavor.
• It stays moist for days, thanks to the pumpkin and oil content.

100% Gluten-Free (and Still Delicious!)

• Made with a perfect blend of gluten-free flours to create a soft and fluffy texture.
• No one will guess it’s gluten-free!

Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients

• No fancy equipment needed—just mix, bake, and enjoy.
• Uses pantry staples like pumpkin puree, eggs, and gluten-free flour.

If you enjoy experimenting with baking, you might love this Chocolate Coffee Cake for a rich and indulgent treat.

Key Ingredients for the Best Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread

Achieving the perfect gluten-free pumpkin bread starts with choosing the right ingredients. Since gluten-free baking requires a bit of extra care, selecting high-quality ingredients will ensure a moist, flavorful, and perfectly textured loaf.

Choosing the Right Gluten-Free Flour

The type of flour you use makes all the difference. A 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend (such as Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur) works best. These blends already contain a mix of rice flour, starches, and xanthan gum to help create a soft and fluffy texture.

If you prefer to make your own gluten-free flour blend, try combining:

• 1 cup almond flour (for richness and moisture)
• ½ cup rice flour (for structure)
• ¼ cup tapioca starch (to help with elasticity)

Pumpkin Puree – The Star Ingredient

Pumpkin puree is the key to making this bread moist and flavorful. Be sure to use pure canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.

• If using homemade pumpkin puree, strain excess moisture to prevent the bread from becoming too dense.
• The natural sweetness of pumpkin pairs well with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

Sweeteners and Oils for the Perfect Texture

Using the right combination of sugars and fats enhances both texture and flavor.

• Brown sugar or coconut sugar adds depth and richness.
• Maple syrup or honey brings a natural sweetness and helps retain moisture.
• Coconut oil or vegetable oil keeps the bread soft and tender, while melted butter can add a slightly richer taste.

Spices & Flavor Enhancers

Pumpkin and spices are a match made in heaven! To achieve that classic fall flavor, use:

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (warm and slightly sweet)
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg (adds a nutty depth)
• ½ teaspoon ginger (a mild spice kick)
• ¼ teaspoon cloves (earthy and aromatic)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances the overall flavor)

Step-by-Step Recipe for Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread

Now that you know the best ingredients for achieving the perfect gluten-free pumpkin bread, it’s time to bring them all together! This easy recipe requires just one bowl and a few simple steps. Follow along for a foolproof way to bake a delicious, moist, and perfectly spiced pumpkin loaf.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ginger
• ¼ teaspoon cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• ¾ cup pumpkin puree
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
• ½ cup coconut oil (melted)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices until well combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

• In another bowl, whisk the eggs, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully blended.

Step 4: Combine and Mix

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
• Do not overmix—this helps keep the bread light and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
• Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

• Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Slice and enjoy warm with a spread of butter or nut butter!

If you love comforting desserts, you might also enjoy Green Bean Sweet Gruel, a warm and traditional delight.

Tips for the Best Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread

Baking gluten-free pumpkin bread can be tricky if you’re not familiar with gluten-free ingredients. Here are some expert tips to ensure your bread turns out perfectly moist, fluffy, and flavorful every time.

How to Keep It Moist and Fluffy

• Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing can lead to a dense and gummy texture. Stir until just combined.
• Use oil instead of butter – Coconut oil or vegetable oil helps maintain a soft, moist crumb.
• Measure flour correctly – Use the spoon and level method (spoon flour into the measuring cup, then level it off) to avoid using too much.

How to Avoid a Gummy Texture

• Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing – This helps it firm up and prevents a sticky, underbaked center.
• Use room temperature ingredients – Cold eggs or pumpkin puree can affect how well the batter mixes, leading to uneven baking.
• Check oven temperature – An oven that runs too hot or too cool can affect baking time. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Storage Tips to Keep It Fresh

• At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• In the fridge: Keeps well for up to a week when wrapped tightly.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in the microwave for a quick treat!

Delicious Variations to Try

One of the best things about gluten-free pumpkin bread is its versatility! You can easily customize it with different flavors and mix-ins to create your own unique version. Here are some delicious variations to try:

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

• Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet and decadent twist.
• Dark or semi-sweet chocolate pairs beautifully with the warm pumpkin spices.

Nutty Crunch Pumpkin Bread

• Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture and crunch.
• Lightly toast the nuts beforehand to enhance their flavor.

Vegan & Dairy-Free Option

• Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
• Swap honey for maple syrup to keep it fully plant-based.

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Muffins

• Instead of baking in a loaf pan, divide the batter into a muffin tin.
• Reduce the baking time to 20-25 minutes for perfectly soft muffins.

FAQs – Your Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread Questions Answere

Here are some common questions about baking gluten-free pumpkin bread, along with expert answers to help you get the best results every time.

1. Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Yes! Simply use a nut-free gluten-free flour blend instead of almond flour. Many gluten-free flours contain nut-based ingredients, so always check the label. Also, avoid mix-ins like walnuts or pecans. If you want some crunch without nuts, try pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds as a great alternative.

2. How do I prevent my bread from sinking?

Sinking in the middle usually happens due to:
✅ Too much moisture – Make sure your pumpkin puree isn’t too watery. If using homemade puree, strain it before adding it to the batter.
✅ Overmixing – Stir the batter until just combined to avoid developing too much air, which can cause the loaf to collapse.
✅ Underbaking – Ensure the bread is fully baked by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with dry crumbs.

3. Can I make this recipe refined sugar-free?

Absolutely! Swap the brown sugar for coconut sugar or use a natural sweetener like monk fruit or maple syrup. Keep in mind that liquid sweeteners (like honey or maple syrup) can make the batter wetter, so you may need to reduce other liquid ingredients slightly.

4. How do I know when my pumpkin bread is done?

The best way to check for doneness is the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf:

• If it comes out clean or with a few dry crumbs, the bread is ready.
• If it comes out wet or sticky, bake for another 5–10 minutes and check again.
  Another sign of doneness is a golden brown crust that’s slightly firm to the touch.

5. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, but fresh pumpkin puree has more water than canned. If using homemade puree:
1️⃣ Roast the pumpkin instead of boiling it to avoid excess moisture.
2️⃣ Strain it well using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
3️⃣ Use the same amount as canned pumpkin in the recipe (¾ cup).

6. Can I make this gluten-free pumpkin bread dairy-free?

Yes! This recipe is already dairy-free if you use coconut oil instead of butter. If adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, be sure to choose dairy-free chocolate.

7. What’s the best gluten-free flour to use?

A 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend works best (such as Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur). If making your own blend, combine:

• 1 cup almond flour (moisture & structure)
• ½ cup rice flour (light texture)
• ¼ cup tapioca starch (elasticity & binding)

8. How do I make gluten-free pumpkin muffins instead of a loaf?

Simply divide the batter into a muffin tin and reduce the baking time:

• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
• Check doneness with a toothpick, just like the loaf version.
  This is perfect for grab-and-go snacks!

9. How do I store gluten-free pumpkin bread?

✅ At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✅ In the fridge: Keeps well for up to a week when wrapped tightly.
✅ Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave for 20-30 seconds.

10. Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely! Some great mix-ins include:
🍫 Chocolate Chips – Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best.
🌰 Chopped Nuts – Walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a nice crunch.
🌻 Pumpkin Seeds – A nut-free option for extra texture.

11. Can I add more protein or fiber to this bread?

Yes! To boost nutrition, try:
🥄 Adding 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder – Mix it into the dry ingredients.
🥥 Replacing some flour with oat flour – Adds fiber and a slightly chewier texture.
🥚 Using flax eggs instead of regular eggs – Adds omega-3s and fiber (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).

12. What if my gluten-free pumpkin bread is too dry?

If your loaf turns out dry, try these fixes:

• Increase the fat – Add an extra 1 tbsp of coconut oil or butter.
• Use more pumpkin puree – Up to 1 cup total instead of ¾ cup.
• Reduce the flour slightly – Too much flour can cause dryness.

13. How do I make this bread egg-free and vegan?

Replace the eggs with one of these options:
🥄 Flax Egg – 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg.
🍌 Mashed Banana – ¼ cup per egg, but it will slightly change the flavor.
🍏 Applesauce – ¼ cup per egg, adding extra moisture.

14. Can I turn this into a pumpkin spice cake?

Yes! To make a gluten-free pumpkin spice cake:

• Use the same recipe but bake in a cake pan instead of a loaf pan.
• Add a simple glaze (powdered sugar + almond milk).
• Bake for 35-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Need another delicious dessert idea? Try our Chocolate Cobbler for a rich, gooey treat!

Tips & Serving Suggestions

Pro Tips for the Best Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread

To ensure your pumpkin bread turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert baking tips in mind:

• Use high-quality gluten-free flour – A 1:1 gluten-free baking blend with xanthan gum helps mimic the texture of traditional wheat-based bread.
• Let the batter rest for 10 minutes before baking – This allows the gluten-free flour to absorb moisture, leading to a better texture.
• Bake in the center of the oven – Positioning your loaf in the middle rack ensures even baking and prevents overbrowning.
• Test with a toothpick – If it comes out with just a few dry crumbs, your bread is done. If there’s wet batter, bake for a few more minutes.

Want to improve your baking skills? Explore our Breakfast Recipes for more expert tips and inspiration.

Best Ways to Serve Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread

This bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in several ways:

• Classic & Simple: Enjoy a warm slice with butter or nut butter for a cozy breakfast or snack.
• Sweet Treat: Drizzle with maple syrup or honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Indulgent Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Coffee Pairing: A slice of gluten-free pumpkin bread pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or spiced chai tea.
• Holiday Brunch: Serve it alongside other festive treats like Lemon and Blueberry Bread for a beautiful brunch spread.

Conclusion

Baking gluten-free pumpkin bread doesn’t have to be complicated! With the right ingredients and techniques, you can enjoy a moist, flavorful, and completely gluten-free loaf that’s perfect for fall and beyond. Whether you enjoy it plain, with chocolate chips, or with a nutty crunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Remember to follow the tips for perfect texture, experiment with fun variations, and store leftovers properly to keep your bread fresh. And if you love trying new recipes, why not explore more delicious baked goods and comfort foods?

Want to try something savory? Don’t miss our Chicken Drumstick Soup, perfect for a cozy meal!

Happy baking, and enjoy your homemade gluten-free pumpkin bread!