If you’re looking to shake up your gluten-free baking routine, look no further than mesquite flour! This nutty, slightly sweet ancient grain is a game-changer in the world of gluten-free baking. With its unique flavor and texture, mesquite flour adds depth and complexity to everything from classic banana bread to decadent chocolate brownies. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of mesquite flour.
From sweet treats like blueberry muffins and lemon poppy seed muffins, to savory options like zucchini bread and pumpkin spice cake, there’s something for everyone in our collection of mesquite flour recipes. And the best part? They’re all gluten-free, making them perfect for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
Mesquite Flour Banana Bread
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the distinct smokiness of mesquite flour, creating a unique and delicious bread. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup mesquite flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add mesquite flour and mix until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Mesquite Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies
Experience the unique flavor of mesquite flour in these chewy chocolate chip cookies. The nutty undertones and subtle sweetness of mesquite complement the richness of dark chocolate perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (120g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup (90g) white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (60g) mesquite flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, mesquite flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mesquite Flour Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy mesquite flour pancakes, drizzled with pure Canadian maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mesquite flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and egg.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Mesquite Flour Blueberry Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the nutty flavor of mesquite flour with sweet blueberries, perfect for a breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups mesquite flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, yogurt, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mesquite Flour Pumpkin Spice Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the unique flavor of mesquite flour with the warm spices of pumpkin season. Perfect for a cozy autumn evening or as a unique dessert for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups mesquite flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together mesquite flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mesquite Flour Apple Cinnamon Waffles
Elevate your breakfast game with these sweet and savory waffles, featuring the distinct flavor of mesquite flour and the warmth of apple cinnamon. Perfect for a cozy morning treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mesquite flour
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or other sweet varieties)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mesquite flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, eggs, milk, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add diced apples and cinnamon to the wet ingredients; stir until well combined.
5. Pour the batter onto the preheated waffle iron and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Repeat with remaining batter, dusting with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mesquite Flour Peanut Butter Cookies
Experience the unique flavor of mesquite flour in these soft and chewy peanut butter cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mesquite flour
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mesquite flour, peanut butter, and sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Stir in the softened butter until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Mesquite Flour Zucchini Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the natural sweetness of zucchini with the distinct, slightly sweet flavor of mesquite flour. Perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mesquite flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated zucchini
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mesquite flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, and grated zucchini. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mesquite Flour Carrot Cake
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the unique flavor and texture of mesquite flour, creating a moist and delicious cake perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup mesquite flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, mesquite flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, eggs, carrots, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts, if using.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mesquite Flour Almond Butter Bars
A sweet and nutty treat that combines the earthy flavor of mesquite flour with the creamy richness of almond butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mesquite flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons almond butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together mesquite flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter, honey, almond butter, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Press half of the dough into prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle chopped almonds evenly over the top.
6. Roll out remaining dough to fit on top of the nuts.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mesquite Flour Chocolate Brownies
Take your brownie game to the next level with the unique flavor of mesquite flour! This recipe combines rich, velvety chocolate with the subtle nutty taste of mesquite flour for a truly distinctive dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups (250g) sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (60g) mesquite flour
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.
3. Stir in eggs one at a time, followed by mesquite flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Combine melted chocolate with the saucepan mixture. Stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mesquite Flour Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins
Brighten up your morning with these citrusy and nutty muffins, infused with the unique flavor of mesquite flour. These tender treats are perfect for a breakfast or brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup mesquite flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flours, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, yogurt, and lemon juice.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in poppy seeds.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mesquite Flour Coconut Macaroons
A unique twist on traditional macaroon recipes, these sweet treats combine the nutty flavor of mesquite flour with the richness of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup mesquite flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon egg whites (about 2 large eggs)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine coconut, sugar, mesquite flour, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until frothy. Add vanilla extract and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the egg mixture into the coconut mixture until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown on the bottom.
7. Allow macaroons to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mesquite Flour Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of mesquite flour with the wholesome goodness of oatmeal and plump raisins. Perfect for a snack or dessert, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mesquite flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mesquite flour, oats, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in raisins.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mesquite Flour Sweet Potato Bread
This sweet potato bread recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of mesquite flour, creating a unique and delicious loaf.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup mesquite flour
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mesquite flour, all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
4. Add the roasted sweet potatoes, warm water, and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then place in a greased loaf pan.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mesquite Flour Cinnamon Rolls
Mesquite Flour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Warm up your senses with these sweet and spicy treats infused with the rich flavor of mesquite flour.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup mesquite flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let mixture sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
2. Add all-purpose flour, mesquite flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead dough on floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Roll up tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake in preheated oven at 375°F for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
Mesquite Flour Honey Granola Bars
Elevate your snack game with these Mesquite Flour Honey Granola Bars, infused with the rich flavor of mesquite flour and the warmth of honey. Perfect for a quick energy boost or as a healthy treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
– 1/2 cup mesquite flour
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and mesquite flour.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mesquite Flour Spiced Pumpkin Bread
Warm up with a slice of this seasonal treat, infused with the rich flavors of mesquite flour and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup mesquite flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, mesquite flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, honey, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavor and texture of mesquite flour with these 18 gluten-free baking recipes. From sweet treats like Mesquite Flour Banana Bread, Chocolate Chip Cookies, and Coconut Macaroons to savory options like Zucchini Bread and Sweet Potato Bread, there’s something for everyone. Try making a batch of crispy Pancakes with Maple Syrup or indulging in the spicy kick of Pumpkin Spice Cake. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of mesquite flour. Get baking and experience the unique flavor of this ancient grain!
