If you are looking for a delightful fall-inspired treat that is both simple to make and full of cozy flavors, the Pumpkin Twist Pastry Recipe is your new best friend. This recipe takes flaky puff pastry and swirls it with a rich pumpkin filling seasoned with warm spices like cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice, creating an irresistible combination of crispy and tender textures with every bite. Whether you serve it as a breakfast treat or a charming dessert, these pumpkin twists are guaranteed to bring comfort and joy to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step toward baking a delicious batch of pumpkin twists. Each one plays a vital role, from creating the buttery layers of puff pastry to infusing that warm pumpkin flavor you crave.
- Frozen puff pastry sheet: Thawed and ready to roll, this is the flaky base that makes the twists so light and crispy.
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée: The star ingredient providing natural sweetness and a vibrant orange hue.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to balance the pumpkin’s earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: Brings that signature blend of warming spices like nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon: Enhances the fragrance and depth of flavor in the pumpkin filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle sweet note that rounds out the spices beautifully.
- 1 egg (beaten): Used as an egg wash to give the pastry a gorgeous golden sheen when baked.
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional): Sprinkled on top for a crunchy, sparkly finish.
- Powdered sugar (optional): Lightly dusted over the cooled twists for a festive touch.
How to Make Pumpkin Twist Pastry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling
Start by combining the pumpkin purée, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Mix until everything is smoothly blended, making sure those warm spices are evenly spread throughout the filling for maximum flavor in each bite.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, unfold your thawed puff pastry sheet and gently roll it out into a 10 by 12-inch rectangle. This helps ensure an even layer and makes cutting easier later on.
Step 3: Layer and Seal
Cut the puff pastry sheet lengthwise into two equal rectangles. Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over one half, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges to help seal the pastry. Place the second rectangle on top and press gently all around to seal the pumpkin filling inside.
Step 4: Cut and Twist
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the layered pastry into strips about one inch wide. Take each strip and twist it several times to create that signature spiral shape that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat. Place the twists onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Brush the twists with your beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish. If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle coarse sugar on top before sliding the tray into a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until the pastries puff up and turn a beautiful golden brown. Let them cool slightly on a rack before dusting with powdered sugar if desired.
How to Serve Pumpkin Twist Pastry Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely snowy touch that highlights the golden twists. For an extra festive look, try sprinkling cinnamon or nutmeg over the top just before serving. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup can also take these pastries to the next level.
Side Dishes
These pumpkin twists pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea, making them a perfect companion for a chilly autumn morning or a cozy afternoon snack. For a more decadent dessert plate, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a creamy mascarpone spread for a luscious contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the pumpkin twists on a rustic wooden board surrounded by mini pumpkins and autumn leaves for a charming seasonal display. You could also serve them in individual paper liners or stack them in a tiered dessert stand to impress guests at your next brunch or holiday gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover Pumpkin Twist Pastry Recipe goodies (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to retain their freshness and flaky texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked twisted pastries on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven warmth, pop your stored twists in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This will crisp them up nicely without drying them out, ensuring every bite stays tender and flaky.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin purée?
Absolutely! Just roast and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth, then drain any excess moisture before using. This will give your twists an even fresher pumpkin flavor.
Is it possible to make the pumpkin twists vegan?
Yes! Substitute the egg wash with a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk mixed with a little maple syrup for color. Make sure your puff pastry is vegan-friendly too, as some contain butter.
How do I prevent the layers from sticking together?
Be sure to leave a small border around the edges when spreading the pumpkin filling and press gently to seal the layers. Additionally, lightly flouring your work surface will keep the pastry from sticking when rolling and cutting.
Can I add other flavors to the pumpkin filling?
Definitely! Adding a thin layer of cream cheese before the pumpkin filling gives a tangy richness. You could also incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch.
What is the best way to serve these pastries warm?
Serve them fresh out of the oven or reheat as needed for that comforting warm aroma and flaky texture that makes this Pumpkin Twist Pastry Recipe so irresistible.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Twist Pastry Recipe is truly a little slice of autumn magic that’s easy enough for any home baker to whip up. The perfect blend of sweet pumpkin and flaky pastry makes it hard to stop at just one. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to these charming, cozy twists—you won’t regret it!
Print
Pumpkin Twist Pastry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 twists
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pumpkin Twist Pastries are a delightful fall dessert featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a spiced pumpkin mixture. Easy to make and perfect for serving warm or at room temperature, they offer a delightful blend of sweet pumpkin and aromatic spices with a crisp, golden finish.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed)
Filling
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for topping)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Mix pumpkin filling: In a small bowl, combine the canned pumpkin purée, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
- Roll and cut puff pastry: Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Gently roll it out to form a 10×12-inch rectangle. Cut the pastry in half lengthwise to create two equal rectangles.
- Assemble layers: Spread the pumpkin filling evenly over one rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges. Place the second rectangle on top and gently press down to seal the edges together.
- Cut and twist strips: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the layered pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Twist each strip several times to form spiral shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each twist.
- Apply egg wash and sugar topping: Brush each twist generously with the beaten egg to help them brown beautifully. Sprinkle coarse sugar over the twists if desired for a crunchy topping.
- Bake the twists: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
- Cool and dust with powdered sugar: Remove the twists from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For added richness, spread a thin layer of cream cheese on the puff pastry before adding the pumpkin filling.
- These pastries are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
