These Pumpkin Twists are a fun and easy treat, perfect for pumpkin lovers! Made with fluffy dough and a hint of spice, they’re baked to golden perfection.
What makes these twists so great is how buttery and soft they are! I can’t resist having one (or three) right out of the oven. They’re a cozy snack for fall! 🧡
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star ingredient for a flaky texture. If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use crescent roll dough as a fun alternative. It won’t be quite the same but will still taste delicious!
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is super convenient, but you can also use fresh pumpkin. Just make sure to cook and blend it well until smooth. I often opt for the canned version for ease, especially when I’m in a hurry.
Brown Sugar: If you’re out of brown sugar, you can mix granulated sugar with a little molasses to get a similar flavor. I personally love the deep sweetness of brown sugar in these twists.
Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger add warmth. If you don’t have one or two of these, try using pumpkin pie spice instead. It has all those flavors packed in!
How Do I Get Perfectly Twisted Pastries?
The twisting technique is crucial for great texture and showcasing the filling. Here’s how to nail it:
- After cutting the pastry strips, hold each one at both ends.
- Twist each strip a few times in opposite directions. This creates ribbons of flaky pastry!
- Don’t worry about perfection; a few uneven twists add to the charm of homemade treats.
Make sure not to overstretch the pastry, as it could tear. Keep it gentle, and you’ll have beautiful twists!
Enjoy your time making these Pumpkin Twists! They’re sure to bring a smile to your face with each bite.
How to Make Pumpkin Twists
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 2 sheets of puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
For The Topping:
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to bake. So, in just under an hour, you can have these delicious Pumpkin Twists ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Making the Pumpkin Filling:
In a small bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until everything is well blended. This mixture will be the flavorful filling for your twists!
3. Assembling the Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry. Spread half of the pumpkin mixture evenly over this pastry. Next, lay the second puff pastry sheet on top of the first one with the filling, creating a layered effect. Press down gently to seal the edges.
4. Cutting the Strips:
Using a sharp knife, cut the layered pastry into strips that are about 1 inch wide. Think of these strips as little “twist candidates!”
5. Twisting It Up:
Take each strip and hold both ends. Twist them a few times in opposite directions, forming a spiral shape. This is where the fun begins!
6. Baking Time:
Arrange your twisted pastries on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each one with the beaten egg to give them that lovely golden color as they bake. Then, sprinkle a bit of granulated sugar on top for some extra sweetness.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them—they’ll smell amazing!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Then you can enjoy your warm, buttery Pumpkin Twists. Perfect for sharing, or keeping all to yourself!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pumpkin Puree?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is a convenient option and works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to use plain pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugars and spices.
What Can I Substitute for Puff Pastry?
If you don’t have puff pastry, crescent roll dough can be a fun alternative! It won’t have the same flaky texture, but it will still be delicious. You can also use phyllo dough for a lighter twist, just keep in mind to layer it properly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Pumpkin Twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to crisp them up.
Can I Add Nuts or Chocolate?
Yes! Feel free to add some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. You can also swirl in chocolate chips with the pumpkin filling for a sweet variation. It’s all about customizing to your taste!