Pumpkin Twists are a fun and delicious treat, perfect for fall! They have a soft, sweet pumpkin dough filled with warm spices and a touch of vanilla. Yum!
These twists are like little hugs for your taste buds! I love enjoying them with a cup of hot cocoa. They make any chilly day feel cozy and special! ☕🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the main base for your twists. If you can’t find puff pastry, you might consider using crescent roll dough as a substitute, though it will change the texture slightly. Make sure it’s thawed before use.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is easy and convenient, but fresh, cooked pumpkin works too! Just ensure it’s pureed until smooth. Can’t find pumpkin? Sweet potato puree makes a great substitute!
Brown Sugar: Regular white sugar can replace brown sugar, but you’ll lose some of the rich, molasses-like flavor. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can make your own by mixing white sugar with a bit of molasses.
Spices: Pumpkin pie spice is classic, but you can create your own with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves if needed. Also, feel free to adjust the spice amounts to suit your taste—more cinnamon can be delightful!
What’s the Best Way to Handle Puff Pastry?
Puff pastry can be a little tricky if you’re not used to working with it, but don’t worry! Here are some tips:
- Keep your puff pastry cold. It works best when it’s chilled, so take it out just before you’re ready to use it.
- Flour your work surface lightly to prevent sticking. Don’t overdo it, as too much flour can affect the dough’s texture.
- For easier folding, roll it out slightly before adding your filling. This helps to create even twists!
- Don’t skip the egg wash! It gives the twists a lovely, golden color and helps the sugar stick.
With these tips, your Pumpkin Twists will turn out light and flaky every time! Enjoy the process—it’s a fun way to celebrate the season!
How to Make Pumpkin Twists
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Granulated sugar for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of baking. So, you’ll be enjoying these delicious Pumpkin Twists in about 30-35 minutes total! Perfect for a quick fall treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make sure your twists don’t stick while baking.
2. Make the Pumpkin Filling:
In a small bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is smooth and well combined. This will be the delicious filling for your twists!
3. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
Lightly dust your work surface with flour. Then, roll out your puff pastry sheet gently to smooth it out. This makes it easier to spread the pumpkin mixture on.
4. Spread and Seal the Filling:
Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over half of the puff pastry. If you want, you can fold the pastry in half to encase the filling, pressing gently to seal it inside.
5. Cut and Twist:
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into strips about 1 inch wide. Take each strip and twist it several times to create a fun spiral shape. This helps the filling show through!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Place the twisted strips onto your lined baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between them. In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush a light layer over the twists for a beautiful golden finish. Then sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top for extra sweetness!
7. Bake and Cool:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they are done when they are puffed and golden brown. Once baked, take them out and let them cool slightly before diving in!
Enjoy these warm, flaky Pumpkin Twists as a festive fall snack or dessert! They’re perfect for sharing or just treating yourself! 🎃🥧
Can I Use Store-Bought Pumpkin Puree?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is not only convenient but also saves you time. Just make sure to choose 100% pure pumpkin without any added spices or sugar.
What Can I Substitute for Puff Pastry?
If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use refrigerated crescent roll dough as a substitute. While it won’t be quite the same texture, it will still yield a delicious treat!
How Do I Store Leftover Pumpkin Twists?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through for best results.
Can I Make These Vegan?
Yes! You can make these twists vegan by using a plant-based puff pastry (many brands are) and substituting the egg wash with a mixture of almond milk and a bit of maple syrup for brushing before baking.
