Over the last year, I tried both of Trader Joe's brownie mixes. I was surprised to come to the conclusion that gluten-free was vastly superior to the non-gluten-free variety. So I was intrigued by the two varieties of pumpkin bread available. I wondered if this could match the taste of the Trader Joe's Pumpkin Bread and Muffin Mix. Now, I am fortunate where I have no food allergies whatsoever. So why not test both to see if there is a discernible difference.
Testing this
I baked this in a loaf pan and the bake time was about an hour. If you are looking to save time then make muffins instead.
The texture of the gluten-free was pretty much identical to the regular variety with some very subtle differences. You still get the same moist cake-like consistency. The spice is all there.
The most noticeable difference was the crust. This seemed far more caramelized perhaps because of the sugar content present. The only other major difference was there was a slight aftertaste that I couldn't quite put my finger on. Not a deal-breaker in any way. And very well done.
Overall
For $3.99, this is priced at a $1 premium over the non-gluten-free variety. If you have celiac's or do not eat gluten this is absolutely something to reach for. If you don't have to eat gluten-free, then this is worth a try, but not hugely different from the other variety. Unlike the brownies, I did not feel one was vastly superior to the other.
In this case, they were more or less equals. I do wish they were priced the same. For some gluten-free isn't a choice, it's a need. Both varieties are recommended because they have the familiar pumpkin bread taste with nothing missing from them. Just keep in mind both varieties are seasonal, so if you like it, then pick it up.
Would I buy this again? Eating gluten-free is not a necessity for me. However, for some it is. I personally would reach for the regular variety over Trader Joe's Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread and Muffin Baking Mix as the quality seemed equal and this was slightly more expensive.
Once they are gone for the season, they're gone until they decide to bring them back.
Product photos
The box of Trader Joe's Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread and Muffin Baking Mix:
The nutritional information:
The ingredients:
How to prepare:
After being baked you get:
Sliced with some of Trader Joe's Cultured Butter:
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Did you try it? Let me know what you think in the comments section!
The Bottom Line
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Trader Joe's Gluten Free Pumpkin Bread and Muffin Baking Mix
Product Name: Trader Joe's Gluten Free Pumpkin Bread and Muffin Baking Mix
Product Description: Trader Joe's Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread and Muffin Baking Mix is an annual favorite fall item.
Price: $3.99
Summary
Trader Joe's Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread and Muffin Baking Mix is around only for the Fall season. So if you love it then stock up.
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Trader Joe's Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread and Muffin Baking Mix is a perfectly good option for those who can't have gluten.
- Only subtle differences between this and the regular variety of Trader Joe's Pumpkin Bread mix
Cons
- This item is priced higher than the non-gluten-free variety.
- The first ingredient listed is sugar.
Their mixes seem to be a cut above ordinary ones in the grocery store.
Virtual hugs,
Judie
Much agreed Judie!
I love to read your reviews, you must have eaten a wider variety of 'stuff' than almost anyone I know. I say 'stuff' as some of it cannot really be described as food, and what on earth is sorghum flour? Good stuff!
I tried both the regular and GF pumpkin bread mixes and preferred the taste of the GF. Not sure why. At my TJ they are priced the same
Hey KitKat! I'm glad you liked the gluten free better. By chance, where are you located? I'm on the east coast and sometimes prices do vary based on location. Thanks so much for stopping by!
Stop posting items no longer sold
If you post ensure the item exists
Do you know where this CAN be purchased?
Very disheartening
Hey Rickie! If you check the date of when I posted this it was more than a year ago. It is a seasonal item. Most often they appear after Labor Day but are often gone by Halloween. Unfortunately, while Trader Joe's probably won't get any until next year. I keep the posts up year round in case they do show up. I'm not affiliated with TJs in anyway and post reviews so that they may help people whether they are current or something they've had stowed away i the back of a closet. I hope you find some.