When the air turns crisp and leaves crackle beneath your boots, there’s nothing quite like settling into your kitchen with a batch of Pumpkin Pie Twists. These flaky spirals marry buttery puff pastry and spiced pumpkin puree in a way that feels both decadent and delightfully simple. Even if you’re new to baking, you’ll find this recipe to be a breezy beginner-friendly project—no tricky doughs to knead, just quick assembly and a short bake time. With only 15 minutes of prep, 20 minutes in the oven, and a brief 5-minute rest, you’ll be biting into a golden twist in under an hour. Each serving, at about 200 calories, makes for a guilt-free afternoon indulgence or a charming addition to any dessert table.
As soon as you start melding warm cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves with smooth pumpkin puree, you’ll know why these twists are winning hearts this fall. They deliver that perfect balance of lightly sweet and subtly spiced—an autumn symphony for your taste buds. Ideal for sharing at festive gatherings or savoring solo with a cup of hot cider, these Pumpkin Pie Twists are proof that simple ingredients can create truly memorable treats. The flaky layers puff up around their spiced center, giving you a satisfying crunch followed by a soft, velvety pumpkin embrace. If you love fall flavors but want something beyond the classic slice of pie, these twists are your new go-to.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN PUMPKIN PIE TWISTS
Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients that play well together. These Pumpkin Pie Twists rely on a handful of pantry staples and a trusty sheet of puff pastry to deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Here’s what you’ll need and why each element is essential.
- Puff pastry sheet
A pre-rolled base that puffs up into delicate, buttery layers. It creates the signature twist and provides a tender, flaky bite.
- Canned pumpkin puree
Smooth and earthy, this forms the heart of the filling. It adds both color and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor without extra cooking steps.
- Granulated sugar
A classic sweetener that blends seamlessly into the pumpkin, balancing spices and cutting through any potential bitterness.
- Brown sugar
Adds a hint of molasses richness and moistness to the filling, enhancing depth and giving a subtle caramel note.
- Cinnamon
A warm, familiar spice that highlights the pumpkin’s natural sweetness and evokes cozy feelings with every mouthful.
- Nutmeg
Earthy and slightly sweet, nutmeg deepens the spiced profile and adds a touch of complexity to each bite.
- Ginger
Brings a mild zing and warmth that brightens the filling, preventing it from becoming overly sweet or one-dimensional.
- Ground cloves
Intense and aromatic, cloves round out the spice blend with lingering warmth and a hint of bold earthiness.
- Egg (for egg wash)
Brushed on the surface before baking, it ensures a golden-brown sheen and a glossy finish that’s impossible to resist.
- Powdered sugar (optional)
A light dusting at the end adds a decorative flourish and a whisper of extra sweetness.
HOW TO MAKE PUMPKIN PIE TWISTS
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into these simple steps. Each action is designed to highlight the flaky texture of the pastry and the spiced pumpkin filling, ensuring your twists come out perfectly every time.
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures an even bake and prevents sticking.
2. Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases. Aim for an even thickness so they puff uniformly.
3. Combine the pumpkin puree, sugars, and spices in a medium bowl. Stir together granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and ground cloves until the mixture is entirely smooth and fragrant.
4. Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over the pastry sheet, leaving a one-inch border around the edges. This barrier keeps the filling contained while you twist.
5. Fold the pastry sheet in half, enclosing the pumpkin filling. Lightly press down with your fingers or a rolling pin to seal the edges and distribute filling evenly.
6. Cut the pastry into strips about 1 inch wide using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Consistent width helps them bake at the same rate.
7. Twist each strip gently several times to form a spiral. Lay the twists carefully on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between for expansion.
8. Brush each twist with the beaten egg. This egg wash promotes a glossy, golden finish and enhances flakiness.
9. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the twists are puffed up and golden brown. Keep an eye on them toward the end to avoid over-browning.
10. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. This brief rest helps set the layers and prevents sogginess.
11. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired. The extra sweetness adds a festive touch and highlights the pastry’s ridges.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR PUMPKIN PIE TWISTS
When these twists emerge from the oven, they’re a showstopper all on their own—but a few thoughtful touches can elevate them even further. Whether you’re entertaining guests or creating a cozy solo snack, here are some creative ways to present and enjoy your pumpkin creations.
- Warm and Sugared
Serve the twists straight from the oven, lightly dusted with powdered sugar. The heat will cause the sugar to melt slightly, creating a delicate glaze that clings to each flaky ridge.
- Caramel Drizzle
Plate the twists on a shallow dish and use a spoon to drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce in a slow, zigzag pattern. The rich caramel complements the spiced filling beautifully.
- Spiced Latte Pairing
Place a twist on a small serving board alongside a steaming mug of pumpkin spice latte or chai tea. The warmth of the drink enhances the cozy spices in the pastry.
- Festive Platter
Arrange the twists on a large platter, alternating directions for visual appeal. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts or mini marshmallows around the edges for autumnal flair.
HOW TO STORE PUMPKIN PIE TWISTS
Keeping your Pumpkin Pie Twists fresh ensures each bite retains its signature crunch and spiced pumpkin center. Whether you’re saving leftovers for the next day or planning ahead for a weekend brunch, these storage tips will help maintain their texture and flavor.
- Room Temperature in an Airtight Container
Once completely cooled, place the twists in a single layer or with parchment between layers. Seal them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours to preserve flakiness.
- Refrigeration for Up to Two Days
If you need to store for longer, wrap individual twists in plastic wrap or parchment paper, then tuck them into a container. Chill for up to 48 hours—bring back to room temperature before reheating.
- Freezing for Future Enjoyment
Lay baked and cooled twists on a baking sheet and flash-freeze until firm. Transfer to a zip-top freezer bag, remove excess air, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature, then re-crisp in a 350°F oven.
- Reheating to Restore Crispness
Place chilled or thawed twists on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F for 5–7 minutes. The oven’s dry heat revives the flaky layers without sogginess or burnt edges.
CONCLUSION
From the initial swirl of cinnamon and clove-laced pumpkin filling to the moment you pull those golden twists from the oven, this recipe is a fall favorite that’s as simple as it is satisfying. We’ve walked through each step—from laying out the puff pastry to achieving that perfect glossy finish with an egg wash—and highlighted key ingredients that transform everyday pantry staples into spiced delights. Whether you’re serving these as an appetizer at a festive gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat with a warm cup of coffee, these Pumpkin Pie Twists deliver buttery layers and autumnal warmth in every bite. You can easily print this article or save it for reference, and rest assured that the recipe stays true to its beginner-friendly rating, with just 15 minutes of prep, 20 minutes of bake time, and a quick rest before diving in.
Feel free to scroll down for our FAQ section for common questions, or leave a comment below if you have thoughts, questions, or feedback. I’d love to hear how your twists turned out, any creative variations you tried, or troubleshooting tips you might need. Your kitchen stories make this recipe feel like a friendly chat, and I can’t wait to read about your pumpkin-filled adventures. Happy baking!
Pumpkin Pie Twists
Description
These Pumpkin Pie Twists boast buttery, flaky pastry filled with spiced pumpkin goodness. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, they're a delightful fall treat you won't want to miss!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases.
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In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and ground cloves. Mix until smooth and well combined.
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Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over the rolled-out puff pastry sheet, leaving a small border around the edges.
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Carefully fold the pastry sheet in half, enclosing the pumpkin filling, and lightly press down.
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Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the pastry into strips about 1 inch wide.
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Take each strip and gently twist it several times to form a spiral, then lay them out on the prepared baking sheet.
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Brush each twist with the beaten egg to give them a golden sheen as they bake.
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Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the twists are puffed up and golden brown.
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Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
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If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an added touch of sweetness.
Note
- Make sure puff pastry is adequately thawed for easier handling.
- You can substitute spices with pumpkin pie spice blend if preferred.
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for a fall-inspired twist.
- Perfect for snacking during festive gatherings or cozy afternoons.
- For added crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts before folding the pastry.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheat as needed.
