Name: Pumpkin Pie Twists: Cozy Fall Treats Made in Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 package Puff Pastry (pre-rolled); 1 can Canned Pumpkin Puree (pure and unsweetened); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/4 cup Brown Sugar; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon Ginger; 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves; 1 large Egg (beaten) (for brushing); powdered sugar Powdered Sugar (optional, for dusting)

Autumn is a whirlwind of cozy sweaters, crunchy leaves, and the sweet scent of spiced treats wafting from the kitchen. That’s where my Pumpkin Pie Twists come into play—imagine flaky pastry encasing a luscious spiced pumpkin filling; it’s like bringing the essence of pumpkin pie into a fun, portable form! With just 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of baking, these treats are not only beginner-friendly but also a delightful way to impress your guests without the fuss of traditional recipes. Plus, they can easily adapt for gluten-free and dairy-free diets, making them a versatile option for any gathering. Ready to bring a touch of seasonal joy into your kitchen? Let’s twist up some fall magic together!

Why are these Pumpkin Pie Twists irresistible?

Ease of Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes in the oven, you can whip up these delicious treats in no time. Deliciously Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different spice blends, or add nuts for a crunchy twist, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Comforting Flavors: The delightful combination of spiced pumpkin filling and flaky crust captures the warm essence of fall. Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, these twists are a crowd-pleaser that brings joy to any occasion. Check out our July Rice Krispie for another quick treat to add to your home-cooking repertoire!

Pumpkin Pie Twists Ingredients

For the Pastry
• Puff Pastry – Choose pre-rolled for a quick and easy base that puffs beautifully.

For the Filling
• Canned Pumpkin Puree – The key ingredient providing rich, pumpkin flavor; ensure it’s pure and unsweetened.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances the spices and adds sweetness to the filling.
• Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and embodies the essence of autumn.
• Nutmeg – Enhances the richness and complexity of the flavor profile.
• Ginger – Brings a bright, zesty contrast to the pumpkin.
• Ground Cloves – Completes the warm spice blend with earthy notes.

For Assembly
• Egg (beaten) – For brushing the twists, ensuring a gorgeous golden finish.
• Powdered Sugar – Optional, for a sweet dusting just before serving.

Whether you’re planning a festive gathering or simply wanting to warm up your kitchen with seasonal aromas, these Pumpkin Pie Twists are a delightful treat that’s easy and fun to make!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Pie Twists

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start 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 cleanup easy. Making these Pumpkin Pie Twists is a quick process, so having everything ready ensures a smooth baking experience.

Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry until it reaches about 1/8 inch thick. Work gently to maintain its flakiness, ensuring it rolls out evenly. Aim for a rectangular shape, as this will help with the assembly of your delicious Pumpkin Pie Twists later on.

Step 3: Combine the Pumpkin Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and ground cloves. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The warm colors and inviting scents you experience will make it hard to resist the flavors of fall already!

Step 4: Spread the Filling
Carefully spread the pumpkin filling over the rolled-out puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Be generous, but watch for the edges to remain bare, which is crucial for sealing later. This layer will form the heart of your Pumpkin Pie Twists, ensuring every bite is flavorful and spiced.

Step 5: Fold and Seal the Edges
Now, gently fold the edges of the pastry over the filling, pressing firmly to seal them closed. Make sure to avoid any gaps, as you want the delicious filling to stay tucked inside. This step is crucial for keeping the scrumptious pumpkin mixture from leaking during baking.

Step 6: Cut and Twist the Pastry
Using a sharp knife, cut the folded pastry into 1-inch strips. As you cut, be careful not to slice through the seams completely. Once cut, take each strip and gently twist it into spirals, creating the signature shape of your Pumpkin Pie Twists. Display those lovely twists as they tell a story of flavor!

Step 7: Place on Baking Sheet
Arrange the twisted pastries on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave enough space between each twist to allow for puffing during baking. This step helps ensure each Pumpkin Pie Twist rises beautifully and maintains its flaky texture without sticking together.

Step 8: Brush with Egg Wash
To achieve a beautiful golden finish, brush the tops of each twist with the beaten egg using a pastry brush. This easy technique adds a lovely sheen and enhances the overall appearance of your Pumpkin Pie Twists, making them irresistible right from the start.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the twists for 18-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake, and look for a rich golden brown color and a puffed appearance, signaling that they are ready to be taken out and cooled.

Step 10: Cool and Dust
Once baked, remove your Pumpkin Pie Twists from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. This helps to maintain their flakiness. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving, adding a sweet touch to your delightful fall treat that’s too good to resist.

Helpful Tricks for Pumpkin Pie Twists

Watch the Oven: Keep a close eye on the twists while baking; ovens can vary significantly, and you’re aiming for a rich golden brown to avoid under or over-baking.
Even Rolling: Ensure the puff pastry is rolled out evenly to promote uniform puffing—thicker areas may not cook thoroughly, while thinner sections might burn.
Strain Pumpkin: For a less watery filling, strain homemade pumpkin puree before mixing it with spices and sugars. This helps to achieve the ideal consistency for your Pumpkin Pie Twists.
Proper Storage: To keep your twists fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If needed, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 2 months!
Dairy-Free Alternatives: When making the twists, consider plant-based butter and an egg alternative to create a delicious dairy-free version that everyone can enjoy.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Pie Twists are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the cozy flavors of fall without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the pumpkin filling up to 3 days in advance; simply mix together the pumpkin puree, sugars, and spices, then refrigerate in an airtight container. The puff pastry can be rolled out, assembled, and twisted up to 24 hours ahead; just wrap the uncooked twists tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, brush with the beaten egg and pop them in your preheated oven. This way, you’ll have freshly baked treats that are just as delicious and ready to impress your family!

Pumpkin Pie Twists Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity flow and customize these delightful twists to suit your taste or dietary needs!

Spice Blend: Use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices for an easy shortcut that still delivers seasonal flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the filling for added texture. The crunch pairs beautifully with the soft, spiced interior.
Caramel Drizzle: Top with warm caramel sauce before serving for a decadent, sweet touch that elevates this treat to a whole new level of indulgence.
Chocolate Twist: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the filling for a richer flavor addition. The sweet surprise of chocolate mingling with pumpkin is simply divine!
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute plant-based butter and an egg alternative to create a delicious dairy-free version everyone can enjoy.
Gluten-Free Version: Utilize gluten-free puff pastry to cater to those with dietary restrictions. These twists will still puff up beautifully!
Flavor Enhancements: Add maple syrup for added sweetness or a dash of cayenne pepper for a surprising spicy kick to complement the warm spices.

While you’re at it, why not whip up a batch of our delightful July Rice Krispie treats for another crowd-pleaser? Or try pairing your Pumpkin Pie Twists with a warm chai tea latte; it’s the perfect fall combination!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Pie Twists

These delectable treats deserve a delightful spread of accompaniments to create a memorable meal or snack that captures the essence of autumn.

Spiced Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider brings comforting sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin flavors, enhancing the cozy vibe of your gathering.
Chai Tea Latte: With its blend of spices and creaminess, a chai tea latte creates a soothing pairing that complements the warm spices of the Pumpkin Pie Twists.
Vanilla Bean Cheesecake: The creamy richness and subtle vanilla notes of this dessert provide a delightful contrast to the flaky twists, making it a show-stopping finish for any meal.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds lightness and sweetness, perfectly balancing the spices and enhancing the overall experience.
Pecan Pie Bars: These rich, nutty treats bring a different texture to your table, tying in the fall flavors without stealing the spotlight from the pumpkin twists.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the twists can elevate the dessert experience by adding bittersweet notes that complement the spicy pumpkin filling beautifully.
Cranberry Sauce: This tart, fruity sauce can offer a refreshing contrast that not only enhances flavor but also adds a pop of color to your fall dessert table.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Pie Twists

Room Temperature: Store your Pumpkin Pie Twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their flaky texture.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate them for up to a week; just be sure to seal tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the twists for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy warm twists, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, ensuring they retain their delightful crispiness.

Pumpkin Pie Twists Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting canned pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing canned pumpkin puree, ensure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling. Look for labels that say “100% pumpkin” with no added sugars or flavors. The ideal consistency is smooth and thick, which creates a rich filling for your Pumpkin Pie Twists.

How can I store my Pumpkin Pie Twists to keep them fresh?
Very good question! For optimal freshness, store your Pumpkin Pie Twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to seal the container tightly to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Pie Twists, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Pumpkin Pie Twists, first let them cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

What should I do if my pumpkin filling is too watery?
If your filling ends up too watery, don’t worry! This can happen if using homemade pumpkin puree. To fix it, strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove excess moisture before mixing with the sugars and spices. This will ensure your filling has the right consistency, keeping your twists from becoming soggy.

Are there any dietary considerations for Pumpkin Pie Twists?
Absolutely! You can make these twists dairy-free by using plant-based butter and an egg alternative for brushing. If you need a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free puff pastry available in many grocery stores. Just check the labels to ensure they fit your dietary needs.

How long does it take for baked Pumpkin Pie Twists to cool before serving?
The cooling time is minimal! Allow your freshly baked Pumpkin Pie Twists to cool for about 10 minutes on a wire rack to ensure they maintain their enticing flaky texture. You can then dust them with powdered sugar and serve warm, making them extra delightful!