These Pumpkin Twists are a fun and tasty treat! With soft pumpkin dough and a sprinkle of spice, they’re perfect for fall. Plus, they make your kitchen smell amazing!
I love to have these with a cup of coffee in the morning. They’re great for sharing, but honestly, I sometimes keep them all to myself! Who can blame me? 🎃😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the show! If you’re in a pinch, store-bought is great. You can also use phyllo dough for a lighter twist, but it won’t be quite as flaky.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin works perfectly here, but if you have fresh pumpkin, just roast and puree it! A good substitute could be sweet potato puree for a different flavor.
Spices: Brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger add warmth. If you don’t have nutmeg, you can skip it or use allspice instead. Adjust to your taste preference!
Powdered Sugar: This is optional for dusting. If you’re skipping sugar, a sprinkle of cinnamon could add a nice touch instead.
How Do You Get the Perfect Twist?
The twisting technique gives Pumpkin Twists their unique shape and texture. Here’s how to nail it:
- Cut the pastry into even, 1-inch wide strips for uniform twists.
- Hold both ends of the strip and gently twist it several times. Don’t pull too hard; you want it to stay together.
- When placing them on the baking sheet, leave some space as they will puff up while baking!
Taking your time with these steps will ensure your twists come out beautifully golden and flaky!
How to Make Delicious Pumpkin Twists
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and around 12-15 minutes of baking time, so you’ll be enjoying your Pumpkin Twists in about 25-30 minutes total. Perfect for a quick snack or a cozy dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot when your twists are ready to bake. While that’s happening, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Pumpkin Filling:
In a small bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and vanilla extract. Stir well until it’s smooth and fully combined. This mixture will give your pumpkin twists a delicious, spiced flavor!
3. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet. Once it’s rolled out, brush the melted butter all over the surface. This will help the pumpkin mixture stick and add a nice flavor.
4. Assemble the Twists:
Spread the pumpkin filling evenly over the entire buttered pastry. Then, using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the pastry into strips about 1 inch wide. Now comes the fun part!
5. Twist and Shape:
Take each strip and gently twist it several times to create a spiral shape. Don’t worry about making them perfect; each twist can have its own unique personality!
6. Bake the Twists:
Place the twisted pastry strips on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
7. Cool and Dust:
Once they’re out of the oven, let the twists cool for a few minutes. If you like, dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These Pumpkin Twists are best served warm or at room temperature. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pumpkin Puree?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and saves time. Just make sure it’s plain pumpkin with no added spices or sugar for the best flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the fridge, where they’ll last up to a week.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the twists and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just twist them up, place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and bake when you’re ready!
What Other Spices Can I Add?
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a pinch of allspice or cardamom for extra warmth. Adjust according to your taste to create your perfect flavor profile!
