Pumpkin Twist Pastry Recipe
If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing treat that captures all the magic of autumn, look no further than Pumpkin Twist Pastry. This delightful dessert pairs flaky, golden puff pastry with a warmly spiced pumpkin filling, creating irresistible twists that are perfect for sharing (or savoring all to yourself). Whether you’re hosting a brunch, planning an afternoon snack, or just want a quick baking project, this Pumpkin Twist Pastry recipe brings together the best flavors of fall in every delicious bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Filling
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting or glaze for drizzling
How to Make Pumpkin Twist Pastry
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F, ensuring it’s nice and hot for a perfectly puffed pastry. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This first step sets you up for crispy, golden success!
Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Filling
In a small bowl, stir together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well combined. This luscious filling is the heart of your Pumpkin Twist Pastry, infusing each bite with sweet, spiced flavor.
Step 3: Roll and Cut the Pastry
Unroll your thawed puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Gently roll it out to smooth any folds or creases, ensuring even baking. Slice the pastry in half lengthwise to create two equal rectangles—the perfect base and top for your festive filling.
Step 4: Fill and Seal
Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over one half of the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges to help with sealing. Carefully place the second pastry rectangle on top, then gently press the edges to seal in all that delicious filling.
Step 5: Slice and Twist
Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the filled pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip and twist it several times—this not only looks beautiful but also creates gorgeous layers of pumpkin and pastry in every bite. Arrange the twists on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Egg Wash and Sugar Sprinkle
Brush each twist lightly with the beaten egg to give them a gorgeous golden finish once baked. Sprinkle granulated sugar over the top for a sweet crunch and a sparkly effect that makes your Pumpkin Twist Pastry extra inviting.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the twists for 15–18 minutes, or until they’re puffed and deeply golden. The aroma will fill your kitchen with cozy, spiced scents—resist the urge to dive in immediately and let them cool slightly before serving. For an extra special touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze while they’re still warm.
How to Serve Pumpkin Twist Pastry
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy finish to your Pumpkin Twist Pastry, making them look as delightful as they taste. For a glossy, bakery-style presentation, try a simple vanilla or maple glaze drizzled over the twists once they’re cool. You could even add a sprinkle of chopped pecans for a nutty crunch.
Side Dishes
These pastries shine alongside a mug of hot coffee, spiced cider, or chai tea. For a brunch spread, pair them with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a savory egg bake to balance the sweetness. The Pumpkin Twist Pastry is a perfect companion to any cozy fall gathering.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile the twists on a rustic wooden board for a casual get-together, or arrange them in a circular pattern on a cake stand for more formal occasions. For a fun holiday brunch, serve Pumpkin Twist Pastry with small bowls of dipping sauces like caramel, chocolate, or maple glaze—guests will love to customize their treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra twists (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The puff pastry will soften slightly over time, but a quick reheat brings back that fresh-from-the-oven magic.
Freezing
Pumpkin Twist Pastry freezes beautifully! Let the twists cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready for a treat, thaw at room temperature or reheat from frozen.
Reheating
To recapture that fresh-baked texture, warm leftover twists in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes. This revives the crispness of the puff pastry and brings the spiced pumpkin aroma right back to life—just like freshly baked!
FAQs
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree works perfectly in Pumpkin Twist Pastry. Just make sure it’s well-drained and not too watery, as extra moisture can make the pastry soggy.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use a dairy-free puff pastry (many store-bought brands are vegan-friendly), swap the egg wash for a little plant-based milk, and you’re set. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.
What other spices can I add?
Feel free to experiment—nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom would all add new layers of flavor to your Pumpkin Twist Pastry. Just be careful not to overpower the pumpkin!
How do I keep the twists from unrolling during baking?
Make sure to press the ends of each twist firmly onto the baking sheet before baking. The egg wash also helps hold everything together and keeps the twists from unraveling.
Can I add extras to the filling?
Definitely! Mini chocolate chips or chopped pecans are wonderful in the filling, adding texture and flavor. Just sprinkle them over the pumpkin mixture before sealing and twisting.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about pulling a tray of Pumpkin Twist Pastry from the oven—golden, fragrant, and ready to share. If you’re craving a treat that’s equal parts effortless and impressive, these twists are sure to become a new seasonal favorite. Give the recipe a try, and don’t be surprised if you start looking for excuses to bake them all autumn long!
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Pumpkin Twist Pastry Recipe
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 twists 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the cozy flavors of fall with these Pumpkin Twist Pastries, featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a spiced pumpkin mixture and a touch of sweetness. Perfect as a dessert or a seasonal snack, these twists offer a comforting blend of cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar wrapped in a golden, flaky crust.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Filling
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting or glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make Pumpkin Filling: In a small bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined to create a flavorful filling.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Gently roll it out to smooth any creases or folds, ensuring an even thickness throughout.
- Cut and Fill Pastry: Cut the puff pastry sheet in half lengthwise to form two equal rectangles. Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over one half, leaving a small border around the edges to help seal the pastry.
- Assemble Twists: Place the second pastry sheet over the pumpkin-covered half and gently press the edges to seal the filling inside.
- Slice and Twist: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the sealed pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Twist each strip several times to form the signature twisted shape and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Apply Egg Wash and Sugar: Brush each twist lightly with the beaten egg to promote a golden, shiny finish. Sprinkle with granulated sugar for added sweetness and a slight crunch.
- Bake: Bake the twists in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pumpkin twists to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze for extra sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- Serve warm with coffee or spiced cider for a cozy fall treat.
- Add mini chocolate chips or chopped pecans into the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- These twists taste best when enjoyed the day they’re baked to maintain puffiness and crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
