These Pumpkin Twists are perfect for fall! Flaky and buttery pastry wrapped around a creamy pumpkin filling will make your taste buds dance with joy. 🎃
They’re so easy to make, I can’t help but whip them up whenever I crave something sweet. Warm them up a bit and grab a cup of coffee alongside—it’s a nice little treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the show for a flaky texture. You can use store-bought, which is super handy, or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. If gluten-free is your thing, look for a gluten-free puff pastry at the store!
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree works great, but if you have fresh pumpkins, roast and blend them for a homemade touch. If you need to avoid pumpkin altogether, try using sweet potato or butternut squash puree instead.
Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger give these twists their warm flavor. If you don’t have nutmeg or ginger, just use cinnamon or a ready-made pumpkin spice mix. Personal tip: I love adding a pinch of ground cloves for an extra flavor kick!
Melted Butter: Brushing with melted butter before baking adds a lovely golden finish. If you want to keep it dairy-free, olive oil or coconut oil can be good alternatives.
How Do I Get the Perfect Twist Shape?
The twisting is what makes these Pumpkin Twists fun! Here’s how to do it right:
- After cutting your strips, grab one strip and hold each end. You want to gently twist it in opposite directions. This helps create those cute spirals!
- Don’t be too rough; just a few gentle twists are all it takes. You want the filling to stay inside.
- Place your twisted strips on the baking sheet without overcrowding them, as they will expand while baking. You can also curl the ends slightly if you want a more decorative look!
- For an extra boost of flavor, sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top after brushing with butter. It adds a nice sweetness and a little crunch!
Enjoy making these delicious Pumpkin Twists, and happy baking! 🎃
Delicious Pumpkin Twists Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for brushing)
- Additional sugar for sprinkling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes for preparation and another 15-20 minutes for baking. So, in just about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have these delicious pumpkin twists ready to enjoy! Perfect for a cozy fall treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Pumpkin Filling:
In a small bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until it’s smooth and deliciously combined—this will be the sweet filling for your twists!
3. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry sheet into a rectangle, aiming for about 12×10 inches. You want it nice and flat!
4. Add the Pumpkin Mixture:
Spread your pumpkin filling evenly across the puff pastry, making sure to leave a small border around the edges. This will help keep the filling inside when twisting.
5. Layer and Cut:
If you want a double layer, place another sheet of puff pastry over the pumpkin filling. If you prefer just one layer, simply fold the pastry over the filling. Then, cut the layered pastry into strips about 1 inch wide.
6. Twist the Strips:
Now, gently take each strip and twist it a few times to create a beautiful spiral shape. It’s super fun to do—just be gentle to keep the filling tucked inside!
7. Bake the Twists:
Arrange your twists on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one as they will puff up. If you’d like, brush the twists with melted butter and sprinkle a little sugar on top for a lovely, golden finish.
8. Time to Bake:
Pop the tray into the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden and crispy. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Cool and Enjoy:
Once done, take them out of the oven and let the twists cool slightly on the baking sheet. Serve them warm or at room temperature as the perfect seasonal snack or dessert!
Enjoy your Pumpkin Twists! Happy fall baking! 🎃✨
Can I Use Frozen Pumpkin Puree?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen pumpkin puree completely before using it in the recipe. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in warm water.
Can I Make These Twists Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make these twists vegan by using a plant-based puff pastry and replacing the melted butter with a non-dairy alternative like almond or coconut oil. The pumpkin filling is already vegan, so you’re good to go!
How Can I Store Leftover Pumpkin Twists?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to get that crispiness back!
Can I Add Other Spices or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the filling by adding a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra warmth. You can also mix in nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch, or even chocolate chips for a sweet twist!