As the days grow shorter and the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and orange, the kitchen transforms into a haven of autumn delights. I recently found myself reminiscing about those cozy gatherings filled with laughter, the sweet scent of freshly baked treats overpowering the chill in the air. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists, an incredibly simple recipe that evokes all the warmth of the season without overwhelming culinary demands.
These delightful treats marry flaky crescent dough with a luscious pumpkin filling, all topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. In under 20 minutes, you can present these delightful morsels at your fall gatherings—think Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any crisp day that calls for a comforting dessert. Friends and family will surely appreciate this updated twist on the classic pumpkin pie, perfect for anyone who craves homemade goodness over fast food. Join me as we dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that captures the very essence of fall!
Why Love Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists?
Deliciously simple to prepare: With only a handful of ingredients and minimal steps, anyone can master these twists in under 20 minutes.
Cozy fall flavor: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and a hint of sweetness evokes warm autumn memories.
Versatile delight: Perfect for holidays like Thanksgiving, or as a sweet afternoon treat, these twists fit any occasion!
Crowd-pleaser appeal: With their fun shape and delightful taste, they are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Adjustable options: Feel free to swap in your favorite fillings or toppings for a personalized touch, like adding chocolate chips or experimenting with cream cheese for a richer flavor!
For more delicious ideas, check out our collection of easy fall desserts.
Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists Ingredients
• Prepare to create your own delightful twists with these simple ingredients!
For the Twists
- Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough – Provides a flaky, tender base; unroll carefully to maintain structure.
- Pumpkin Puree – Acts as the main filling; contributes moisture and pumpkin flavor—can use homemade pumpkin puree for freshness.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a touch of caramel flavor; consider coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option.
- Maple Syrup – Enhances sweetness and gives depth to the filling; substitute with honey or agave syrup if needed.
- Pumpkin Spice – Key for that cozy, autumn flavor; use a homemade blend if store-bought is unavailable.
- Melted Butter – Helps cinnamon sugar stick and adds richness—don’t skip this to elevate flavor!
For the Topping
- Cinnamon Sugar – A delightful sprinkle that complements the pumpkin filling; make your own by mixing sugar and cinnamon to taste.
Gather these easy ingredients, and you’ll be ready to wow your guests with your Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists!
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists
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Preheat Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This ensures your twists come out perfectly crispy! -
Prepare Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, maple syrup, and pumpkin spice. Mix until well incorporated; this sweet aroma will surely awaken your autumn spirit! -
Prepare Dough:
Carefully unroll the refrigerated crescent dough and cut it in half to form two rectangles. Lay them flat on your cutting board, making sure not to tear the dough. -
Spread Filling:
Evenly spread the pumpkin mixture on one rectangle of dough, leaving a thin border along the edges. This helps keep the delicious filling from oozing out during baking. -
Combine Dough:
Place the other rectangle of dough on top of the pumpkin mixture, gently aligning the edges to create a lovely sandwich. Seal the edges lightly with your fingers. -
Slice Strips:
Using a pizza cutter, carefully cut the dough sandwich into strips approximately 3/4 inch wide. This is where the fun begins! -
Twist Strips:
Pick up each strip and gently twist from both ends to form spirals. This will add an appealing shape, perfect for presentation! -
Butter and Sugar:
Brush the twisted dough with melted butter and generously sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. This will create a golden, sweet crust as they bake! -
Bake:
Place your beautifully twisted pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-11 minutes or until they’re beautifully golden brown. Enjoy the warm, inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Optional: Serve warm with whipped cream for dipping or a drizzle of icing for extra sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists
Thin Filling: Ensure the pumpkin filling is spread thinly to prevent any ooze during baking, resulting in perfectly neat twists.
Gentle Twisting: Twist each strip gently from both ends to maintain the dough’s integrity and make spirals without tearing.
Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on the twists while they bake; remove them when they turn golden brown to avoid over-browning.
Use Parchment Paper: Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking, ensuring a hassle-free cleanup!
Versatile Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to customize your Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists with different fillings like cream cheese or apple pie filling for added flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists
Room Temperature: Store your Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to keep them a bit longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week. Remember to reheat for a few minutes in the oven for that fresh-baked taste!
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each twist tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat your twists in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, so they regain their delightful crispiness.
Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delightful twists your own—there’s so much room for fun here!
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Chocolate Chip Surprise:
Add mini chocolate chips to the pumpkin filling for a sweet, rich twist. The melty chocolate combines beautifully with the pumpkin, elevating the flavor profile! -
Lower Sugar Option:
Substitute coconut sugar for brown sugar for a healthier, lower glycemic index treat. You’ll still get that delightful sweetness, but with a twist of mindful eating. -
Maple Magic:
Swap maple syrup for honey or agave syrup if you prefer. This will add a unique depth and subtle different flavor that beautifully complements the pumpkin. -
Spice it Up:
Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or ground ginger to the pumpkin filling for a hint of heat. This little kick will stun your taste buds! -
Creamy Filling:
Experiment with cream cheese mixed into the pumpkin filling for a rich, tangy contrast. It adds a luscious texture that makes the twists even more delightful. -
Nutty Crunch:
Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch—this adds texture and a delicious nutty flavor that pairs well with pumpkin. -
Fruit Fusion:
Try replacing the pumpkin filling with apple pie filling or even cherry preserves. The unique fruit flavors can provide a fun twist while keeping that cozy dessert appeal. -
Cheesecake Delight:
Add a layer of cheesecake filling beneath the pumpkin layer for a decadent, creamy surprise. This combines two beloved desserts in one amazing twist.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists are perfect for busy cooks who love to meal prep! You can prepare the pumpkin filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—this not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can assemble the twists fully (without baking) and cover them tightly before refrigerating them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply brush with melted butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade treats ready for your fall festivities with minimal effort, bringing warmth and joy to your gatherings!
What to Serve with Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists?
Indulging in a warm batch of these delightful twists calls for the perfect sidekicks to create a complete autumn experience.
- Whipped Cream: Elevate the experience by serving each twist with a side of fluffy whipped cream, allowing indulgence in delightful contrasts.
- Hot Apple Cider: The sweet and spiced flavor of apple cider invites you to sip and savor the essence of fall alongside your twists.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful temperature contrast, melting into the warm pumpkin filling.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the season with a comforting pumpkin spice latte, perfect to sip with your twists while enjoying a cozy reading nook.
- Nutty Granola: Crumble some nutty granola on top of your twists for added crunch, enhancing both texture and flavor in each bite.
- Candied Pecans: Sweet, crunchy candied pecans add a burst of flavor and texture that pairs beautifully with the spices in the pumpkin filling.
- Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over your twists creates an exquisite touch of sweetness and richness—an irresistible temptation!
- Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, serving a small dish of warm chocolate sauce for dipping transforms these treats into a gourmet dessert experience.
Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use 100% pure pumpkin puree, which you can find in cans at most grocery stores. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade pumpkin puree works beautifully too! Just bake a sugar pumpkin until soft, scoop out the flesh, and blend until smooth.
How should I store my Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists?
Store your Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week—just remember to reheat them in the oven to restore that delightful texture!
Can I freeze the pumpkin pie twists?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months! Wrap each twist tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for the best results.
What should I do if the filling oozes out while baking?
No worries! To avoid any ooze, ensure the filling is spread thinly and leave a small border around the edges while assembling. If it happens, simply remove the twists from the baking sheet promptly once they’re cool enough to handle, and a little extra cinnamon sugar will make the mess worth it!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, consider using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a lower glycemic index option. You could also make these twists dairy-free by using a non-dairy butter substitute, making this tasty treat accessible for more guests.
Can I customize the filling?
Very much! These twists are wonderfully versatile. Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, swap in cream cheese for richness, or use apple pie filling for a different flavor profile. The more the merrier when it comes to customization!
Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists That Will Wow Your Fall Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, maple syrup, and pumpkin spice until well incorporated.
- Unroll the refrigerated crescent dough and cut it in half to form two rectangles.
- Spread the pumpkin mixture on one rectangle of dough, leaving a thin border along the edges.
- Place the other rectangle of dough on top, gently aligning the edges and sealing them lightly.
- Using a pizza cutter, cut the dough sandwich into strips approximately 3/4 inch wide.
- Twist each strip gently from both ends to form spirals.
- Brush the twisted dough with melted butter and sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar.
- Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-11 minutes or until golden brown.