Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Cake 🍂 – Light, Fluffy, and Full of Autumn Flavor!
A guilt-free holiday dessert that celebrates autumn flavors without gluten
This gluten-free Thanksgiving cake is a revelation for health-conscious holiday bakers. With a light, fluffy texture achieved through almond flour and a touch of coconut flour, it's infused with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove that capture the essence of autumn. Perfect for those avoiding gluten or simply seeking a lighter dessert option, this cake maintains all the comforting qualities of a classic Thanksgiving cake while offering a modern twist. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a festive finale that satisfies cravings without compromising dietary needs.
Whether you're hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or looking for a seasonal treat, this cake brings together the best of autumn flavors in a gluten-free format. The combination of spiced pumpkin and nutty almond flour creates a unique texture that's both tender and moist. It's an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy the holidays without worrying about dietary restrictions.
What sets this recipe apart is its clever use of alternative flours to achieve a traditional cake texture without gluten. The addition of buttermilk and Greek yogurt creates a tangy depth that balances the sweetness, while the warm spices evoke memories of cozy fall days. This cake is not just a dessert - it's a celebration of seasonal ingredients reimagined for modern kitchens.
From the moment you take it out of the oven, the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg will fill your kitchen, signaling the arrival of autumn. The cake's moist crumb and subtle nutty flavor make it a crowd-pleaser, whether served warm with a drizzle of caramel or cooled with a dusting of powdered sugar. It's a versatile dessert that adapts to any holiday gathering while maintaining its health-conscious appeal.
With its elegant simplicity and autumnal charm, this gluten-free cake is sure to become a new holiday tradition. It proves that dietary restrictions don't have to limit enjoyment of seasonal treats, offering a delicious solution that everyone can share in.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour (blanched, finely ground)
- 1/2 cup coconut flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp xanthan gum
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with coconut oil and line with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut flour, baking soda, baking powder, xanthan gum, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. Set dry ingredients aside.
- Step 2: In another bowl, combine applesauce, Greek yogurt, buttermilk, and eggs. Mix until smooth. Add maple syrup and melted coconut oil, blending thoroughly. Stir in pumpkin puree until fully incorporated. The batter will be thick and slightly lumpy, which is normal.
- Step 3: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb. Fold in chopped nuts if using. Pour batter into prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Step 4: Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake will be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center when done. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
This cake's success lies in the balance of alternative flours and moisture-rich ingredients. The applesauce and Greek yogurt provide natural leavening while keeping the cake moist without added sugars. The spices are carefully measured to create a warm, autumnal flavor profile without overpowering the other ingredients. The optional nuts add a delightful textural contrast that complements the soft crumb.
Why This Recipe Works
🌾 Gluten-Free Perfection
The combination of almond and coconut flours with xanthan gum creates a cake that's both gluten-free and structurally sound. This allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy a traditional holiday cake without compromise.
🍂 Autumn Flavor Explosion
The warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves work together to create an authentic autumn flavor profile. These spices are balanced perfectly with the natural sweetness of applesauce and maple syrup.
🕒 Simple Preparation
With only 15 minutes of active prep time and no complicated techniques required, this cake is accessible to bakers of all skill levels. The straightforward mixing method ensures consistent results every time.
🌟 Health-Conscious Twist
This recipe uses natural sweeteners and alternative flours to reduce refined sugar content while maintaining a rich, satisfying flavor. It's a guilt-free option for health-conscious holiday eaters.
Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Cake
A spiced autumn cake that's gluten-free and light
🛒 Ingredients
- - 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- - 1/2 cup coconut flour
- - 1/2 tsp baking soda
- - 1/2 tsp baking powder
- - 1 tsp xanthan gum
👨🍳 Instructions
Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9-inch cake pan.
💡 Use parchment paper for easy removal
Mix Dry: Whisk almond flour, coconut flour, baking soda, baking powder, xanthan gum, salt, and spices in a large bowl.
💡 Measure spices accurately for balanced flavor
Combine Wet: In another bowl, mix applesauce, Greek yogurt, buttermilk, eggs, maple syrup, coconut oil, and pumpkin puree until smooth.
💡 Room temperature eggs blend more easily
Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 35-40 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
💡 Let cake cool completely before slicing
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Almond Flour
Provides a nutty flavor and tender crumb. Blannch and grind almonds for best results. Substitute with 1 1/2 cups oat flour (certified gluten-free) if preferred.
Substitutions: Oat flour, hazelnut flour
Coconut Flour
Adds structure and absorbs moisture. Essential for preventing a dense cake. Can be substituted with 1/3 cup chestnut flour for a different flavor profile.
Substitutions: Chestnut flour, almond meal
Xanthan Gum
Acts as a binder in gluten-free baking. Omit if using a flour blend that already contains it. Substitute with 1/2 tsp psyllium husk for similar binding properties.
Substitutions: Psyllium husk
Pumpkin Puree
Adds moisture and autumn flavor. Use 100% pure pumpkin, not pie filling. Substitute with 1/2 cup mashed sweet potato for a different twist.
Substitutions: Sweet potato puree
Pro Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Cake
🍂 Spice Balance
Taste the spice mix before baking. Adjust cinnamon and nutmeg to your preference - these are the dominant flavors in this cake.
⏰ Doneness Check
The cake will have a slight wobble in the center when done. Avoid overbaking to maintain moisture.
🥄 Mixing Technique
Mix wet and dry ingredients separately first. Fold in dry ingredients gently to avoid overmixing which can lead to a dense texture.
❄️ Cooling Tip
Let the cake cool completely before slicing. This prevents crumbling and ensures clean cuts.
Variations & Customizations
Nutty Twist
Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture and flavor. Toast the nuts first for enhanced taste.
Citrus Zest
Grate 1 orange or lemon into the batter for a bright, citrusy contrast to the warm spices. This works especially well with the pumpkin flavor.
Vegan Version
Replace eggs with 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 5 tbsp water). Use vegan yogurt and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.
Caramel Drizzle
After baking, drizzle with a simple caramel made from coconut oil, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. This adds a sweet contrast to the cake's spices.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Pumpkin soup with sage cream for a complete autumn meal
- Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze for a festive side
- Spiced apple cider to complement the cake's flavors
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a spiced chai tea or a glass of late harvest Riesling. The warm spices in the cake harmonize beautifully with the tea's cinnamon and clove notes, while the Riesling's sweetness balances the cake's tartness.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the cake up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container at room temperature. Frosting can be made separately and added just before serving.
Refrigerator Storage
The cake will keep for 5 days in the refrigerator. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
Freezer Storage
Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating Instructions
For best results, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Avoid reheating the whole cake as it may dry out.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My cake is too dense. What went wrong?
A: Overmixing the batter is the most common cause. Mix just until combined to maintain a light texture. Also, ensure your xanthan gum is properly incorporated into the dry ingredients.
Q: Can I use a different type of flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute with a certified gluten-free flour blend (1 cup + 2 tbsp). The original combination of almond and coconut flours provides optimal texture and flavor.
Q: How do I prevent the cake from sticking?
A: Use parchment paper in the pan and grease thoroughly. For extra insurance, dust with a bit of gluten-free flour before adding the batter.
Q: Can I add frosting?
A: Yes! A simple cream cheese frosting made with gluten-free flour works well. Apply it after the cake has completely cooled.
Final Thoughts
This gluten-free Thanksgiving cake is more than just a dessert - it's a celebration of autumn's best flavors in a form that everyone can enjoy. Whether you're gluten-free by choice or necessity, this cake proves that dietary restrictions don't have to limit your enjoyment of holiday traditions. The combination of warm spices, nutty texture, and moist crumb creates a memorable finish to any Thanksgiving meal.
As you gather with loved ones this holiday season, let this cake be the sweet culmination of your efforts. It's a perfect example of how modern baking techniques can honor traditional flavors while making them accessible to all. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and prepare to create a dessert that will be cherished by all at your Thanksgiving table.
