As the aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin fills the air, I can’t help but feel the warm embrace of fall. These Air Fryer Pumpkin Pie Twists are a delightful way to savor the season, combining the creamy sweetness of pumpkin pie filling with the flaky bliss of crescent roll dough. Whipping up this quick and easy recipe takes minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for those cozy gatherings when you want dessert without the fuss. Plus, they come out perfectly golden in the air fryer, offering a lighter yet indulgent treat that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. With a buttery cinnamon coating and a hint of orange glaze to finish, who can resist the charm of these playful twists? Ready to dive into this festive creation? Let’s get started!
Why are Pumpkin Pie Twists irresistible?
Fall Comfort: These Air Fryer Pumpkin Pie Twists are the ultimate cozy treat for autumn gatherings.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip these delightful desserts up in no time—perfect for unexpected guests!
Lighter Option: Thanks to the air fryer, enjoy the flaky goodness without the guilt of deep-frying.
Versatile Filling: Not just for pumpkin lovers—swap the filling with chocolate or apple for a fun twist!
Crowd-Pleasing: Their delightful shape and buttery glaze make them a hit with kids and adults alike. If you’re looking for more seasonal delights, check out my Healthy Pumpkin Oat cookies or Thick Chewy Pumpkin cookies for added variety!
Pumpkin Pie Twists Ingredients
• Get ready to create some flaky magic!
For the Twists
- Crescent Dough Sheet – This provides the perfect flaky structure; feel free to substitute with puff pastry if you prefer.
- Pumpkin Pie Filling – The star ingredient that brings sweet and spiced flavors; consider using homemade pumpkin puree for a fresh twist.
- Salted Butter (melted) – Adds richness to your twists and helps achieve that golden glaze; you can swap it for unsalted butter as needed.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- Cinnamon – This spice enhances the warm flavors of the pumpkin; for a more festive vibe, experiment with pumpkin spice!
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – This forms the sweet glaze; if you’re looking to cut calories, sugar alternatives can work beautifully too.
- Orange Juice – It adds a bright and zesty touch to the glaze; lemon juice makes a great substitute if you don’t have orange juice.
Ready to transform these ingredients into delightful Pumpkin Pie Twists? Let’s get cooking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Pie Twists
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 320°F. This ensures the perfect golden finish for your Pumpkin Pie Twists. Give it about 5 minutes to heat up while you prepare the dough, allowing for even cooking that brings out the flakiness and sweetness in your treats.
Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Dough
Roll out the crescent dough sheet on a clean surface. Cut the dough into long, thin strips, about 1 inch wide, using a knife or pizza cutter. Once cut, spoon a dollop of pumpkin pie filling onto each strip, leaving space at the edges for easy sealing.
Step 3: Twist the Dough Strips
Carefully twist each dough strip around itself to create a spiral shape, gently pressing the ends to seal the filling inside. Arrange the twisted dough pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they have enough space for air circulation as they cook.
Step 4: Brush with Butter and Sprinkle Cinnamon
Melt some salted butter and brush it generously over the tops of your Pumpkin Pie Twists. This step not only adds flavor but also contributes to that beautiful golden color. Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon evenly over the buttered twists to enhance their fall flavors and aroma.
Step 5: Air Fry the Twists
Air fry the twists for approximately 9 minutes, checking on them halfway through. The twists should puff up and turn a lovely golden brown when done. Keep an eye out for that crispy, flaky texture that signals they are ready to come out of the air fryer.
Step 6: Make the Orange Glaze
While your Pumpkin Pie Twists are cooling slightly, prepare the orange glaze. In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar and fresh orange juice, whisking until smooth and pourable. Adjust the thickness by adding more sugar or juice if necessary, aiming for a drizzle-consistent glaze.
Step 7: Drizzle the Glaze Over Twists
Once the pumpkin twists have cooled for a few minutes, drizzle the orange glaze over the top of each one using a spoon or a piping bag. The sweet citrus glaze adds a wonderful shine and extra flavor, making your Pumpkin Pie Twists irresistible and ready to serve.
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Pumpkin Pie Twists are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crescent dough twists and fill them with pumpkin pie filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply twist and arrange them in the air fryer basket, then cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just brush with melted butter, sprinkle with cinnamon, and air fry for about 9 minutes until golden brown. This way, you can enjoy a delightful, freshly baked treat with minimal effort on busy weeknights, ensuring your Pumpkin Pie Twists are just as delicious as if they were made from scratch at the moment!
Variations & Substitutions for Pumpkin Pie Twists
Feel free to get creative with these delicious twists, as there are so many ways to customize and enhance your Pumpkin Pie Twists experience!
-
Puff Pastry: Substitute crescent dough with puff pastry for an even flakier texture. The result is a luxurious twist that melts in your mouth.
-
Different Fillings: Swap out the pumpkin pie filling for apple pie or chocolate hazelnut spread to create unique twists. Each variation brings its own delightful flavor profile.
-
Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the pumpkin filling for a crunchy texture. The nuts bring a rich earthiness that beautifully complements the sweetness of the pie filling.
-
Lower Sugar Glaze: Use a sugar alternative like Stevia in the glaze for a healthier option. Your twists will still be delicious and sweet while being kinder on your waistline!
-
Spicy Cinnamon Boost: Mix in some nutmeg or ginger with the cinnamon to elevate the warm spices in your twists. This little addition brings a cozy fall flavor that’s irresistible.
For those who adore pumpkin sweets, don’t miss out on my recipes for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip cookies or Pumpkin Cottage Cheese muffins for more pumpkin-inspired desserts!
-
Increased Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a surprising kick. The heat pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness, creating a fantastic flavor contrast.
-
Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free cream cheese in the filling for a delightful non-dairy twist that still delivers on taste.
Feel free to mix and match these variations! Your imagination is the limit. Enjoy making these twists your own!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Pie Twists
-
Preheat Properly: Ensure your air fryer reaches the right temperature before cooking. This step is crucial for even cooking and a crispy texture in your pumpkin pie twists.
-
Mind the Filling: Avoid overfilling the dough strips. Too much pumpkin pie filling can cause them to burst during air frying, resulting in a messy end product.
-
Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the twists as they cook—the air fryer can vary! Look for a golden-brown hue to know they’re perfectly done.
-
Use Parchment Paper: If you’re concerned about sticking, line your air fryer basket with parchment paper before placing the twists in. This helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
-
Experiment with Glaze: Don’t hesitate to add your personal touch to the glaze! Consider spices like nutmeg or even a dash of vanilla for an even more flavorful finish to your pumpkin pie twists.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Pumpkin Pie Twists
As the sweet aroma of cinnamon drifts through your kitchen, it’s time to think about the perfect companions for your delightful twists.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the flaky pastry perfectly.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The rich, cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, melting slightly over warm pumpkin twists for a heavenly treat.
- Hot Apple Cider: Serve these twists with a warm mug of spiced apple cider, infusing your gathering with cozy fall flavors.
- Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce elevates each bite, introducing a luscious sweetness that complements the pumpkin filling wonderfully.
- Chai Tea Latte: The spiced flavors in chai tea create a delightful contrast, making for a comforting beverage to sip alongside your dessert.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Enjoy the true essence of fall with a creamy pumpkin spice latte, a match made in heaven for these treats.
For an added touch, consider serving a sprinkle of pecans or walnuts on the side, perfect for those who love a bit of crunch. Each pairing enhances the experience, leaving you and your guests savoring the warmth of autumn in every delicious bite.
Storage Tips for Pumpkin Pie Twists
Room Temperature: Allow the twists to cool completely before storing at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Fridge: For longer freshness, wrap the pumpkin pie twists in aluminum foil and store in the fridge for up to 3–5 days.
Freezer: Freeze the twists in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating: To enjoy your pumpkin pie twists again, reheat from frozen directly in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Air Fryer Pumpkin Pie Twists Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin pie filling should I use?
Absolutely! You can use canned pumpkin pie filling for convenience, or go the extra mile and make your own using baked pumpkin. If you opt for homemade, ensure it’s smooth and well-seasoned. If the filling seems too watery, you could add a bit of cornstarch to thicken it up.
How long can I store my Air Fryer Pumpkin Pie Twists?
For sure! Store them in the fridge wrapped in aluminum foil for up to 3 to 5 days. Simply let them cool completely before wrapping to keep them fresh. If they start to lose that delightful flakiness, you might want to reheat them in the air fryer to bring back their crispy texture.
Can I freeze these twists?
Very easy! To freeze, first arrange your pumpkin pie twists in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent them from sticking together. Once they’re frozen solid (about an hour), transfer them to an airtight, freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating!
What if my twists are not browning properly?
No worries! If you find that your twists aren’t browning as desired, try adjusting the air fryer temperature slightly higher and give them a few extra minutes to cook. Always check them halfway through cooking to ensure they’re on track for that lovely, golden color. If they’re browning too quickly, cover them with a piece of foil for the remainder of the cooking time.
Are these twists okay for people with allergies?
Definitely something to consider! These Air Fryer Pumpkin Pie Twists contain gluten and dairy due to the crescent dough and butter. If you need a gluten-free version, look for a suitable gluten-free dough option. For a dairy-free recipe, you could substitute dairy butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Always be sure to double-check ingredient labels!
Pumpkin Pie Twists – Flaky Fall Delights You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 320°F and let it heat for about 5 minutes.
- Roll out the crescent dough and cut it into strips about 1 inch wide. Spoon pumpkin pie filling onto each strip.
- Twist each strip to form a spiral shape and place them in the air fryer basket.
- Brush melted butter over the twists and sprinkle with cinnamon.
- Air fry the twists for approximately 9 minutes, checking halfway through.
- Mix powdered sugar and orange juice in a bowl to prepare the glaze.
- Drizzle the orange glaze over the cooled twists before serving.
Leave a Reply