As I pulled the golden, flaky twists from the oven, an aroma reminiscent of cozy fall evenings filled the kitchen. These Pumpkin Pie Twists combine all the beloved flavors of traditional pumpkin pie with a fun, flaky twist that’s perfect for any gathering or quiet evening at home. This easy baking recipe not only brings a comforting sweetness to your table but also transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleaser that anyone can make. Whether you’re looking for a delightful dessert or a cozy snack to accompany your afternoon tea, these twists are your answer. Ready for a tasty adventure that will warm your heart and fill your home with autumn cheer?
Why are Pumpkin Pie Twists a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The warm blend of spices and creamy pumpkin filling creates a delightful twist on the classic pie that everyone loves.
Simplicity: With just a few ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, even novice bakers can whip up these treats effortlessly.
Perfect for Gatherings: These twists are not only tasty but also beautiful, making them ideal for impressing guests at any fall celebration or cozy get-together.
Versatility: Enjoy them as a sweet snack or as part of a dessert spread alongside warm beverages. For another seasonal delight, check out my Fall Pumpkin Spice recipe!
Time-Saving: Ready in under 30 minutes, they deliver the comfort of homemade baking without the lengthy prep time.
Customizable: You can easily add your favorite toppings or spices to make these twists your own, giving them a unique flair every time!
Pumpkin Pie Twists Ingredients
For the Pastry
- Puff Pastry – A key element, providing the flaky and buttery layers that fold beautifully when baked. Ensure it’s properly thawed for the best results.
For the Filling
- Pumpkin Puree – The heart of these Pumpkin Pie Twists, it delivers that classic pumpkin flavor, perfect for creating a cozy snack.
- Granulated Sugar – This sweetens the filling, balancing the warm spices seamlessly.
- Brown Sugar – Adds depth with its molasses flavor, elevating the sweetness.
- Cinnamon – Infuses aromatic warmth, echoing traditional pumpkin pie essence.
- Nutmeg – Introduces nutty richness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Ginger – Adds a zesty kick that brightens the entire filling.
- Ground Cloves – Rounds out the spice blend with a deeper aromatic quality.
For Assembly
- Egg (beaten) – Used for brushing the pastries, giving them a glorious golden sheen as they bake.
- Powdered Sugar (optional) – A sweet dusting to finish off these twists with a delightful bakery-style touch.
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 ensure your Pumpkin Pie Twists bake evenly and don’t stick. This preparation helps create a flawless golden crust, ready to hold all the delightful flavors of the pumpkin filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry to smooth it out and increase its size. Aim for a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick to ensure it puffs beautifully in the oven. As you work the dough, you’ll notice its elasticity, which leads to those lovely flaky layers we all adore in these Pumpkin Pie Twists.
Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and your chosen spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and ground cloves. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is completely smooth and well-blended. The aroma of the spices will fill your kitchen, giving a hint of the cozy treats to come.
Step 4: Spread the Filling on Pastry
Once your filling is ready, spread it evenly over the puff pastry, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. This border will help seal the pastry when folded, preventing any delicious filling from leaking out. As you spread the mixture, ensure a generous layer, inviting that rich pumpkin goodness into each twist.
Step 5: Fold and Seal the Pastry
Carefully fold the puff pastry in half over the filling, pressing down gently to seal the edges. This creates a thick layer of filling sandwiched between two flaky pastry sheets. For extra assurance that the filling doesn’t escape, you can use a fork to crimp the edges, giving your Pumpkin Pie Twists a charming appearance.
Step 6: Cut and Twist the Pastry
Utilize a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the folded pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip and twist it gently to form spirals, allowing the filling to peek through in some areas. Arrange these twists on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s space between each to allow for puffing while baking.
Step 7: Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat an egg and use a pastry brush to apply a thin layer over each twist. This egg wash will give your Pumpkin Pie Twists a wonderful golden sheen as they bake. As you brush, don’t forget the corners and edges to enhance their appearance and crispiness.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the twists are puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them through the oven window, as the delightful aroma will let you know they’re cooking beautifully. You want that lovely golden hue to signal they’re perfectly baked.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once removed from the oven, let your Pumpkin Pie Twists cool slightly on a wire rack. This step is essential to maintain their flaky texture. If desired, dust them with powdered sugar for that classic bakery-style finish. Serve warm or at room temperature, perfect to enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea.
Pumpkin Pie Twists Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to personalize your Pumpkin Pie Twists and elevate your baking adventure with these fun ideas!
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Homemade Puree: Substitute canned pumpkin with homemade pumpkin puree for a fresher flavor. It’s a rewarding way to highlight your culinary skills.
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Spice It Up: Swap in allspice or cardamom for a unique twist on the traditional spice blend. Each spice brings a different warmth, making it exciting to experiment.
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Dairy-Free: Use non-dairy milk and coconut oil in the egg wash for a vegan-friendly option that still delivers a beautiful golden finish. This choice can surprise even the non-vegans among your guests.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin superbly. This adds both crunch and depth to each bite.
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Sweet Drizzle: For a festive touch, drizzle caramel or butterscotch sauce over the twists before serving. It transforms your dessert into an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist.
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Chili Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a surprising kick. The subtle heat harmonizes beautifully with the sweet spices, creating a delightful complexity in flavor.
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Cinnamon Sugar: Mix cinnamon and granulated sugar to sprinkle over the twists after baking for an extra sweet, crunchy layer. This classic topping is sure to make your treats even more tempting!
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Caramelized Apples: Layer thinly sliced, caramelized apples on the pumpkin filling before twisting. It brings in a delightful fruitiness that complements the pumpkin while adding a unique texture.
For more unique autumn flavors, consider trying out recipes like these Pumpkin Pie Twists that keep the cozy vibes alive or the delectable Fall Pumpkin Spice for a different take on seasonal baking!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Pie Twists
Room Temperature: Store Pumpkin Pie Twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their flaky texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the twists in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure they are tightly wrapped or in a sealed container.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual twists in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat frozen Pumpkin Pie Twists in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Pie Twists
As the sweet aroma of spiced pumpkin fills your home, it’s time to think about what to pair with these delightful treats for a full fall-inspired meal.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture balances the sweetness of the twists, creating a comforting contrast on your plate.
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Warm Apple Cider: This aromatic drink adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the autumn flavors, making it the perfect cozy sip alongside the twists.
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Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts, kissed with maple syrup, adds a crisp contrast that complements the sweet and spiced profile of the pumpkin.
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Caramel Drizzle: A light drizzle over the warm twists provides an extra layer of indulgence, transforming them into a dessert that’s hard to resist.
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Spiced Chai Tea: With its warming spices, a cup of chai tea offers a comforting pairing that echoes the flavors of the twists for a soothing afternoon treat.
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Whipped Cream Topping: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream brings a creamy finish that works beautifully with the flaky pastry and spiced pumpkin filling.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a cozy fall gathering that warms both the heart and the palate!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Pie Twists
Room Temperature Puff Pastry: Allow your puff pastry to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes if it feels stiff after thawing. This ensures easy rolling and perfect flakiness.
Smooth Filling Mix: Make sure to mix the pumpkin puree, sugars, and spices thoroughly until smooth. This creates a balanced filling that spreads evenly without lumps.
Sealing Edges: Remember to properly seal the edges of your pastry after folding. This prevents any luscious pumpkin filling from oozing out during baking.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the twists as they bake. Ovens vary, and you want them golden brown without burning for that perfect, flaky texture.
Tasty Toppings: For an extra festive touch, consider drizzling with caramel sauce or adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts before serving your Pumpkin Pie Twists.
Storing Leftovers: Keep any uneaten Pumpkin Pie Twists in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate and reheat in a preheated oven.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Pie Twists are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while enjoying a delightful dessert! You can prepare the pumpkin filling and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Additionally, you can cut the puff pastry and twist them in advance, placing them on the baking sheet and covering them tightly with plastic wrap for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and brush the twists with egg wash, then bake as directed for warm, flaky treats that taste just as delicious as freshly made!
Pumpkin Pie Twists Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! You can use either canned pumpkin puree for convenience or homemade puree if you prefer a more natural flavor. Just make sure that your homemade puree is well-cooked and drained to avoid excess moisture.
How should I store my Pumpkin Pie Twists?
To keep your Pumpkin Pie Twists at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days in a sealed container. Just remember, they’re best enjoyed fresh!
Can I freeze Pumpkin Pie Twists?
Very! To freeze your twists, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply reheat them from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until they’re warm and crispy again.
What if my puff pastry is difficult to roll out?
If your puff pastry feels stiff, don’t worry! Simply allow it to sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes. This will help it soften, making it much easier to roll out to that perfect thickness without tearing.
Can I use a different sweetener in the filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute granulated sugar and brown sugar with alternatives like coconut sugar or maple syrup. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the quantity based on the sweetness level you’re aiming for.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! If you or your guests have allergies, double-check that the puff pastry is made without dairy or eggs if those are concerns. Also, the spices used are generally safe, but it’s always a good idea to confirm the absence of cross-contamination with allergens in your pantry!
Enjoy these Pumpkin Pie Twists! They truly encapsulate the cozy essence of fall, making for scrumptious snacks or the perfect dessert at any gathering.
Recipe FAQs
Pumpkin Pie Twists: Cozy Flaky Treats for Fall Celebrations
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry to 1/8 inch thick.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and ground cloves, mixing until smooth.
- Spread the filling evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Fold the puff pastry over the filling and crimp the edges to seal.
- Cut the pastry into 1-inch wide strips and twist each strip gently.
- Brush the twisted pastries with the beaten egg.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly on a wire rack and dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.
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