As I organized my spice cupboard one crisp autumn afternoon, a fragrant whiff of cinnamon and nutmeg wafted through the air, igniting my excitement for fall baking. That’s when it hit me—it’s the perfect season for creating delightful Pumpkin Pie Twists! These easy autumn pastries blend layers of flaky puff pastry with warm, spiced pumpkin filling, making them the ideal crowd-pleaser for gatherings or a cozy treat for yourself. Not only do these twists showcase the comforting tastes of fall, but they also require minimal prep, perfect for those of us who crave delicious homemade desserts without the fuss. So, are you ready to twist up your baking game and savor the flavors of the season?
Why are these Pumpkin Pie Twists perfect?
Simplicity at Its Finest: These Pumpkin Pie Twists require just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, making them accessible for all baking levels.
Explosive Flavor: The combination of spiced pumpkin filling wrapped in flaky puff pastry creates a mouthwatering experience that’s the essence of autumn.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for gatherings, snacks, or a sweet breakfast treat, these twists cater to both family and friends.
Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare them in advance, allowing you to focus on your guests or other fall festivities.
Guilty Pleasure Without Regret: Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade treats that are free from the heaviness of fast food. Pair with your favorite coffee or a cozy evening chai!
Ready to explore more pumpkin delicacies? You’ll also love these Healthy Pumpkin Oat cookies and Thick Chewy Pumpkin chocolate chip options for a delightful autumn treat!
Pumpkin Pie Twists Ingredients
• For the Pastry
- Puff Pastry – This flaky option provides layers that puff beautifully, capturing the essence of the season. You can use homemade pastry if you’re feeling adventurous!
• For the Filling
- Canned Pumpkin Puree – A smooth, rich base that recalls the classic flavors of pumpkin pie; make sure to choose 100% pumpkin for best results.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling, enhancing the pumpkin’s natural flavors; feel free to reduce the amount if you prefer a less sweet twist.
- Brown Sugar – Infuses a hint of molasses flavor that deepens the sweetness of the pumpkin filling.
- Cinnamon – The quintessential spice that adds warm undertones, perfect for fall treats.
- Nutmeg – Provides a nutty warmth that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pumpkin.
- Ginger – Adds a lively zing, making your Pumpkin Pie Twists unforgettable.
- Ground Cloves – Rounds out the spice blend with a rich depth that cozy winters crave.
- Egg (for egg wash) – Gives the twists a lovely golden sheen when baked.
• For the Finishing Touch
- Powdered Sugar (optional for dusting) – Sprinkling this on top adds a touch of sweetness and a decorative finish that elevates presentation.
Get ready to fall in love with these delightful Pumpkin Pie Twists as they fill your kitchen with the cozy scents of the season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Pie Twists
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze. This step is crucial for ensuring your Pumpkin Pie Twists bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thick, smoothing out any creases. This will create a pliable base for your twists, ensuring they puff beautifully in the oven. Aim for even thickness to allow consistent baking throughout your Pumpkin Pie Twists.
Step 3: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and your warm spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and ground cloves). Stir well until smooth and fully integrated, ensuring the spices coat the pumpkin evenly. This luscious mixture will become the heart of your Pumpkin Pie Twists.
Step 4: Spread the Filling
Carefully spread the pumpkin filling over half of the rolled-out pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Use a spatula to ensure an even layer without spilling over. This will encase the flavorful filling and create the delightful contrast when baked into your twists.
Step 5: Fold and Seal the Pastry
Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, creating a pocket to hold the delicious pumpkin mixture. Press down gently around the edges to seal the dough securely; this process will help prevent any filling from leaking during baking. Ensure the Pumpkin Pie Twists are closed tightly for an ideal pastry experience.
Step 6: Cut Into Strips
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Be sure to cut evenly, as this will ensure uniform cooking and a beautiful presentation. Each strip will transform into a delightful twist, showcasing the warm pumpkin filling within.
Step 7: Twist and Arrange
Gently hold each strip at both ends and twist them several times to create spirals. Place your twisted pastries on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each for puffing. This step is what gives the Pumpkin Pie Twists their unique shape and character.
Step 8: Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk an egg to create an egg wash, and then brush it generously over the tops of the twists. This will give your Pumpkin Pie Twists a beautiful golden sheen and a lovely finish once baked. Make sure every strip is coated for that appealing look.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the twists to be puffy and golden brown. The delightful aroma filling your kitchen will be the perfect indicator that they’re coming together beautifully.
Step 10: Cool and Dust
Once baked, remove the twists from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack. After cooling, consider dusting them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and a festive appearance. These beautiful Pumpkin Pie Twists are now ready to be enjoyed!
Pumpkin Pie Twists Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make these Pumpkin Pie Twists uniquely yours with any of these delightful twists and alternatives!
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Sweet Potato Scene: Swap out pumpkin puree for sweet potato puree for a sweeter, smoother filling. The change adds a different depth of flavor that will surprise your taste buds.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the pumpkin filling for a delightful crunch. These nuts not only boost the flavor but also enhance the texture, making each bite extra special.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry to make these twists accessible for everyone. Just ensure all ingredients used in the filling are also gluten-free for a shared treat.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños into the pumpkin mixture. This will give your Pumpkin Pie Twists a surprising and adventurous flavor.
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Maple Delight: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup for a rich, caramel flavor twist. The natural sweetness works beautifully with the spices, creating a fragrant autumnal treat.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over your baked Pumpkin Pie Twists for added sweetness and indulgence. A rich caramel contrast makes these twists even more irresistible!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use a plant-based butter alternative and non-dairy milk for the egg wash to create a delicious dairy-free version. There are so many amazing dairy substitutes to explore for that same satisfying taste.
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Savory Spin: Try incorporating herbs like sage or rosemary into the filling for a surprising savory twist. It’s a unique take on the traditional sweet pastry that can elevate any gathering!
If you’re looking for more pumpkin flavors to explore, why not pair your delicious twists with some Healthy Pumpkin Oat cookies or indulge in some Thick Chewy Pumpkin chocolate chip treats? Your autumn baking journey doesn’t have to end with these delightful twists!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Pie Twists
Pumpkin Pie Twists are an inviting way to celebrate the flavors of autumn, but pairing them with the right sides can create a delightful spread.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the warm, spiced twists, enhancing the dessert experience.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the twists brings an indulgent sweetness that beautifully complements the pumpkin filling.
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Cranberry Salad: A tangy and refreshing cranberry salad balances the sweetness of the twists, adding a burst of flavor and vibrant color to your table.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving these warm twists with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delectable combination that’s perfect for cozy nights.
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Spiced Chai Latte: Pair with a steaming cup of spiced chai latte for a cozy beverage that echoes the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg in your twists.
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Fall Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and figs adds freshness and a pop of color, complementing the rich, spiced flavors.
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Pumpkin Spice Coffee: Enhance the autumn theme by serving these twists alongside a cozy mug of pumpkin spice coffee for a delightful brunch pairing.
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Maple Glazed Pecans: Crunchy, sweet maple glazed pecans provide a delightful texture contrast and a nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience of the twists.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Pie Twists
Room Temperature: Store leftover Pumpkin Pie Twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and flaky.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the twists in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked twists before egg wash by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Enjoy within 2 months; bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: For reheating, place baked twists in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through, keeping their golden, flaky quality.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing these delightful Pumpkin Pie Twists ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments during busy autumn days! You can prepare the twists up to 24 hours in advance by assembling them but leaving them unbaked. Simply cover the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just brush with egg wash and bake directly from the fridge, extending the baking time by a few minutes if necessary. This method keeps your twists just as delicious and flaky when the time comes to enjoy them, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less in the kitchen!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Pie Twists
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Room Temperature Pastry: Allow puff pastry to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling. This prevents it from tearing and makes it easier to work with.
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Draining Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to use well-drained canned pumpkin puree to avoid a soggy filling. Too much moisture can result in undercooked twists.
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Consistent Strips: When cutting the pastry into strips, aim for even widths. This ensures that all your Pumpkin Pie Twists bake evenly and look picturesque.
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Twist Carefully: Don’t rush the twisting process; gentle, even twists ensure the filling is well enclosed and avoids leaking during baking.
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Egg Wash Coverage: Brush the egg wash thoroughly over each twist before baking. This creates a gorgeous, golden-brown finish that makes your treats look bakery-fresh.
Pumpkin Pie Twists Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
It’s best to use 100% canned pumpkin puree for your filling. Look for options without added sugars or spices to ensure the true pumpkin flavor shines through in your Pumpkin Pie Twists. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains additional sweeteners and flavors that can alter the recipe.
How do I store leftover Pumpkin Pie Twists?
Store any leftover twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their flakiness. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore their crispy texture before serving.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Pie Twists?
Absolutely! To freeze unbaked twists, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, labeling it with the date. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly puffed twists!
What can I do if my dough tears during rolling?
Don’t worry! If your puff pastry tears, you can easily patch it up by pressing the edges together gently. Just make sure to keep the thickness consistent as you roll to avoid further tearing. Alternatively, you can use a bit of flour to help ease the rolling process. This will result in beautiful Pumpkin Pie Twists without compromising the overall look.
Can I make these Pumpkin Pie Twists ahead of time?
Yes, indeed! You can prepare the twists up to a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of twisting them, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. Bake them just before serving for that delicious, fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
Pumpkin Pie Twists: Irresistibly Easy Fall Treats You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thick on a floured surface.
- In a bowl, combine pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and spices. Mix until smooth.
- Spread the pumpkin filling over half of the pastry, leaving a border around the edges.
- Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
- Slice the pastry into 1-inch wide strips using a knife or pizza cutter.
- Twist each strip several times and place on the baking sheet.
- Whisk the egg and brush it over the tops of the twists.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes until puffy and golden brown.
- Cool slightly on a wire rack and dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
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