These Pumpkin Twists are fluffy treats that mix the warm spices of pumpkin with a soft dough. Perfect for fall, they’re like a hug in every bite!
Whenever I make them, my kitchen smells amazing! They’re a fun snack and great with a cup of tea or coffee. Plus, who can resist twisting dough? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky pastry creates a light texture in the twists. If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use crescent roll dough for a softer, less flaky alternative.
Pumpkin Puree: Be sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices. You can substitute with homemade pumpkin puree if you prefer, just ensure it’s well-drained.
Spices: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves adds warmth. If you lack any spices, pumpkin pie spice can be a quick substitute—use about 1 teaspoon for a good balance.
Egg Wash: The egg wash gives the twists a beautiful golden color. If you prefer a vegan option, use a mix of almond milk with a little oil, or even just a splash of water will work.
How Do I Get Perfectly Golden Brown Twists?
Achieving a golden brown finish on your pumpkin twists is all about the egg wash and the baking process. Here are some tips to nail that golden crust:
- Brush the twists gently with the egg wash, making sure to cover every twist without soaking them.
- Place your baking sheet in the center of the oven for even heat distribution.
- Keep an eye on them during baking. If they are getting darker than you’d like, consider covering them loosely with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.
Let the twists cool for a few minutes before serving, as this helps them set and enhances the flakiness!
Delicious Pumpkin Twists
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1/3 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp ground ginger
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves or allspice (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare. Once you pop them in the oven, they will take an additional 12-15 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll spend around 30 minutes to enjoy these tasty Pumpkin Twists!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the canned pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves/allspice. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. This will be the yummy filling for your twists!
3. Work with the Puff Pastry:
Lightly dust your work surface with flour and unfold the puff pastry sheet. Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over half of the pastry sheet, making sure to cover it well.
4. Fold the Pastry:
Carefully fold the other half of the pastry sheet over the pumpkin filling. Press down gently along the edges to seal everything inside, ensuring no filling leaks out.
5. Cut the Twists:
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the folded pastry into strips that are about 3/4 inch wide. The more strips you cut, the more delicious twists you’ll have!
6. Twist and Arrange:
Now, take each strip and twist them several times, creating that lovely spiral shape. Place each twist on the lined baking sheet, making sure to leave about an inch of space between each one.
7. Egg Wash for Shine:
In a small bowl, beat the egg with a tablespoon of water. This will create an egg wash. Gently brush the egg wash over each twist to give them a beautiful golden color when baked.
8. Bake Your Twists:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the twists have puffed up and turned a golden brown. The smell will be amazing!
9. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the twists from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They taste best warm and flaky. Enjoy your delightful Pumpkin Twists with a cozy drink!
These treats deliver a subtle pumpkin flavor combined with the crispy layers of puff pastry, making them perfect for a seasonal snack or dessert!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh pumpkin, make sure to roast it and then puree it until smooth. Just ensure that it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the twists.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Pumpkin Twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Reheat in a toaster oven for the best texture!
Can I Make These Twists Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the twists and store them unbaked in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just cover them with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold.
What Can I Use Instead of Egg Wash?
If you’re looking for a vegan option or simply don’t have eggs, you can brush the twists with a little almond milk mixed with vegetable oil, or even just water, which will still help keep them moist and achieve some color while baking.
