These Pumpkin Twists are a fun treat perfect for fall! Flaky dough swirled with sweet pumpkin and warming spices makes each bite feel cozy and delicious.
I love serving them warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top. Trust me, your friends will think you’re a baking whiz, and you can let them in on the secret—they’re easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: The base of these twists is puff pastry, which gives it that flaky texture. If you can’t find puff pastry, you could use crescent roll dough. It won’t be as flaky but will still be tasty!
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is super convenient. If you want to make your own, just roast and blend fresh pumpkin. Both options work beautifully, so use what you have.
Brown Sugar: This adds a nice depth of sweetness. You can substitute with white sugar or coconut sugar, but the flavor will be a bit different.
Spices: Pumpkin pie spice is great, but you can use your favorite spices instead, like cinnamon or nutmeg. Feel free to adjust to your taste; I love adding a bit more cinnamon!
How Do I Get the Perfect Twist?
Twisting the dough is what gives these Pumpkin Twists their signature shape. Here’s how to do it right:
- After cutting the dough into strips, pick up each strip and hold both ends.
- Gently twist the strip in opposite directions several times before placing it on the baking sheet.
- Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; a little rustic look adds charm!
Keep the twists spaced apart on the baking sheet to allow for puffing. Happy baking!
How to Make Delicious Pumpkin Twists
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Granulated sugar or coarse sugar for sprinkling
- Optional: pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for preparation and then another 15-20 minutes for baking. Perfect to whip up for a cozy snack or dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While your oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt (if you choose to add it). Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a clean surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet. Use a rolling pin to ensure it’s nice and even. Then, spread the prepared pumpkin mixture over the pastry, leaving about a 1/2 inch border all around the edges.
4. Fold and Cut the Dough:
Carefully fold the dough in half to enclose the pumpkin filling. Press down gently along the edges to seal it tightly. Now, grab a sharp knife or a pizza cutter and slice the folded dough into strips about 1/2 to 3/4 inch wide.
5. Twist and Arrange:
Take each strip and hold both ends, twisting it a few times to create a lovely spiral shape. Place each twist on the lined baking sheet, making sure to space them about 1-2 inches apart so they have room to puff up.
6. Add Some Sweetness:
Sprinkle some granulated or coarse sugar over the top of each twist for an extra touch of sweetness and crunch. You can use as much or as little as you’d like!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn a golden brown and are puffed up beautifully.
8. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove your Pumpkin Twists from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm and enjoy as a cozy snack or delightful dessert!
These Pumpkin Twists are sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. Happy baking!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, roast and blend your pumpkin until smooth. Just make sure to measure out the same amount as the canned puree—about 1/3 cup.
How Do I Store Leftover Pumpkin Twists?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month; just make sure they are cooled completely before freezing!
Can I Make These Twists Without Pumpkin Pie Spice?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, simply use a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to your taste. Feel free to experiment with spices you enjoy!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make these Pumpkin Twists dairy-free, use a dairy-free puff pastry available in stores, and substitute the melted butter with a plant-based butter or oil. Everything else should work just fine!