Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Recipes for Fall
There’s just something about pumpkin that makes fall feel like fall. Pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin bread, cozy candles—you name it, there is probably a pumpkin version. And honestly, I'm here for it. That pumpkin scent evokes a sense of warmth, comfort, and general fall-ness that I just love.
But pumpkin isn't just for pumpkin spice season. It's a surprisingly versatile ingredient that works in everything from breakfast and snacks to cozy dinners and desserts.
If you're following a gluten-free diet, finding easy fall recipes that the whole family will enjoy can sometimes take a little extra planning. So I've rounded up some of my favorite easy gluten-free pumpkin recipes, along with a few helpful tips for baking and cooking with pumpkin.
Grab a can of pumpkin on your next grocery run, and let's get baking!
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Is pumpkin healthy?
Pumpkin is a nutrient-rich food that provides beta-carotene, vitamin C, potassium and fiber. Its bright orange color comes from carotenoids, including beta-carotene, which the body can convert to vitamin A.
Canned pumpkin is also an easy pantry staple. It's an especially convenient way to add pumpkin to recipes.
One important point: pumpkin is nutritious, but that doesn't automatically make every pumpkin-flavored food a healthy food. Pumpkin muffins, breads and desserts can still contain plenty of sugar and fat. It's perfectly fine to enjoy them as part of a balanced diet.
Pumpkin Puree vs. Pumpkin Pie Filling
If you're new to cooking with pumpkin, it's easy to grab the wrong can at the grocery store.
Pumpkin puree is simply cooked pumpkin that has been pureed. This is what most recipes mean when they call for 'canned pumpkin' or 'pumpkin puree.'
Pumpkin pie filling contains additional ingredients such as sugar and spices and is specifically formulated for making pumpkin pie. It isn't a direct substitute for pumpkin puree in most recipes.
Tip: When shopping for the recipes in this post, look for a can labeled 100% pumpkin or pumpkin puree, unless the recipe specifically calls for pumpkin pie filling.
Tips for Gluten-Free Pumpkin Baking
A few things to keep in mind when making gluten-free pumpkin recipes:
- Look for certified gluten-free oats when recipes call for oats.
- Check labels on baking mixes, chocolate chips, spices and other packaged ingredients.
- If you're baking for someone with celiac disease, be mindful of cross-contact from shared utensils, baking pans and countertops.
- Don't assume a seasonal or flavored ingredient is gluten free just because the main ingredient is naturally gluten free.
- Follow the specific recipe's flour recommendations rather than automatically substituting a gluten-free flour blend.
Easy & Delicious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Recipes
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Breakfast Recipes
Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal. Baked oatmeal is perfect for meal prep, a Sunday brunch, or even dessert. Warm it before eating and add a dollop of yogurt on top for added protein.
Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Pancakes. There are lots of pumpkin pancake mixes out there, but many have a lot of added sugar. I love that this recipe is made with simple ingredients that you mix up in your blender. Make a double batch and use them during the week for breakfasts or a lunch treat.
Pumpkin Breakfast Cookies. Cookies for breakfast? Yes, please. These are great to prep ahead and are freezer-friendly! (Also check out my gluten free breakfast cookie!)
Easy Pumpkin Snacks
Pumpkin Spice Granola. This granola is easy to make and so delicious. It's not only gluten free, but dairy free and refined sugar free. It's perfect as a snack or as a topping on a yogurt bowl.
Pumpkin Protein Balls. No-bake and perfect for meal prep!
Three Ingredient Pumpkin Dip. Perfect for a gathering, or even for an after-school snack with apple slices or gluten free graham crackers!
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Breads & Muffins
Simple Mills Pumpkin Bread & Muffin Mix. If you want a quick fall treat, this mix is delicious. Simple, clean ingredients, and lower sugar than most mixes. Sprinkle in some chopped pecans or chocolate chips and you won't be disappointed.
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Muffins. Delicious and moist, and easy to make ahead. Great for breakfast, lunchboxes, or to have as an after-school snack.
Paleo Pumpkin Bread. I make this recipe over and over every fall. There is no added sugar, making it just slightly sweet. It's delicious toasted with butter or almond butter on top.
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Desserts
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bundt Cake. This one is a winner! It smells delicious when baking, looks beautiful, and it's a crowd pleaser.
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bars. These are on my list to make this fall. You make them in a sheet pan, so it's a great recipe to feed a crowd.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chunk Cookie Cake. Yum! This cookie cake looks like a decadent treat that's perfect for fall gatherings.
Savory Gluten-Free Pumpkin Recipes
Gluten-Free No-Boil Pumpkin Pasta Bake. A fall twist on one of my favorite easy weeknight meals. Takes little- to-no time to pull it together and cooks in one dish, which means less mess!
Pumpkin Chili. I love chili as a make-ahead meal, and it's also freezer-friendly!
Creamy Pumpkin Risotto. Warm and comforting, a perfect fall side dish.
Pumpkin Recipes for Busy Weeknights & School Mornings
If you're short on time, these are some of the best make-ahead options in this roundup:
For busy mornings: Pumpkin baked oatmeal, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin bread and pumpkin breakfast cookies.
For snacks: Pumpkin granola, pumpkin protein balls and pumpkin dip.
For gatherings: Pumpkin Bundt cake, pumpkin bars and pumpkin cookie cake.
What can I do with leftover pumpkin puree?
If you only need ½ cup of pumpkin for a recipe, don't let the rest of the can go to waste.
Try adding leftover pumpkin puree to:
- oatmeal
- yogurt
- smoothies
- pancake or waffle batter
- muffins
- pasta sauce
- soup
- chili
- homemade energy bites
Pumpkin Love
Whether you're craving pumpkin muffins for a Saturday morning, looking for an easy snack for the kids, or planning a cozy fall dinner, there are so many ways to enjoy pumpkin beyond pumpkin pie.
I hope this collection of gluten-free pumpkin recipes gives you a few new favorites to add to your fall rotation.
For more fall treats, check out my favorite homemade granola and this easy fall-inspired trail mix.
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