When autumn arrives, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through the kitchen. These Flaky Pumpkin Pie Twists are the perfect way to celebrate the season — simple to make, beautifully golden, and full of cozy flavor. Imagine layers of buttery puff pastry wrapped around a sweet, spiced pumpkin filling, baked until crisp and flaky. They’re wonderful for breakfast, brunch, or as a light dessert with a cup of coffee. I made these once for a fall gathering, and they disappeared within minutes! They’re easy enough for a weekday treat but elegant enough to serve at your Thanksgiving table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Pumpkin Pie Twists are a delightful fusion of convenience and indulgence. Using store-bought puff pastry keeps things easy while delivering a bakery-quality texture. The pumpkin filling captures the essence of fall with a perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. They’re versatile — great warm out of the oven or served at room temperature — and they look as impressive as they taste. Plus, they make your home smell amazing while baking!
Flaky Pumpkin Pie Twists for a Fall Dessert
- Total Time: 28 mins
- Yield: 12 twists
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These flaky pumpkin pie twists are an easy and festive fall dessert made with puff pastry and a spiced pumpkin filling. Perfectly golden, crispy, and dusted with cinnamon sugar, they taste like pumpkin pie in a fun handheld form.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (for topping)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (optional, for brushing after baking)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Unfold the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and roll it slightly to smooth out the creases.
- Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over half of the pastry sheet, then fold the other half over to cover it.
- Cut into 1-inch strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
- Twist each strip a few times and place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Beat the egg and brush over each twist for a glossy finish.
- In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the twists.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Optional: Brush warm twists with melted butter for extra flavor and shine. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Make sure your puff pastry is cold before baking for the flakiest texture.
- Can be served with a cream cheese dip or vanilla glaze.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Perfect for Thanksgiving or fall gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 18 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Puff pastry sheets – The base of this recipe, creating those irresistibly crisp, golden layers. Thaw them according to package directions before use.
Pumpkin purée – Gives the filling its signature flavor. Make sure you’re using pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling.
Brown sugar – Adds sweetness and a caramelized depth that pairs perfectly with pumpkin spice.
Pumpkin pie spice – The classic blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that brings warmth and aroma to each bite.
Vanilla extract – Adds a sweet and comforting undertone that enhances the flavor of the filling.
Egg – Used for the egg wash, it gives the pastry a beautiful golden sheen when baked.
Granulated sugar (for sprinkling) – Adds a light crunch and a touch of sparkle on top of the twists.
Cream cheese (optional) – For a creamier filling, you can mix a little softened cream cheese with the pumpkin mixture. It gives a rich, cheesecake-like texture.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the filling – In a bowl, mix pumpkin purée, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until smooth. If using cream cheese, blend it in until fully combined.
- Roll out the pastry – Unfold the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over one sheet, then place the second sheet on top to sandwich the filling.
- Cut and twist – Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the layered pastry into strips about 1 inch wide. Twist each strip gently a few times to create the signature spiral look.
- Egg wash and sugar – Place twists on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle lightly with granulated sugar.
- Bake – Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Essential Equipment :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 10–12 twists.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 18 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftover twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to bring back the crispness. Avoid microwaving as it softens the pastry.
Variations and Customizations
Cream Cheese Swirl
Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese under the pumpkin mixture for a richer, cheesecake-style twist.
Maple Glaze Drizzle
Drizzle the baked twists with a quick glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and a touch of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Chocolate Pumpkin Twists
Spread a thin layer of melted chocolate along with the pumpkin filling for a decadent twist.
Nutty Pumpkin Delight
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling before twisting for added crunch and flavor.
Savory Pumpkin Twists
Skip the sugar and add herbs, salt, and cheese to make a unique savory version perfect for appetizers.
Mini Twists
Cut smaller strips and make bite-sized versions for parties or quick snacks.
Spiced Sugar Finish
Mix cinnamon and sugar together and sprinkle it over the egg wash before baking for an extra-spiced crust.
FAQs
Can I use homemade puff pastry?
Yes, but store-bought saves time and gives consistent results.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the twists and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking.
What’s the best way to serve them?
Serve warm with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Can I freeze the twists?
Yes, freeze them baked or unbaked. Reheat in the oven straight from frozen.
How do I keep them from getting soggy?
Cool completely before storing and reheat in the oven, not the microwave.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of purée?
You can, but reduce or skip the added sugar and spices since it’s already sweetened.
What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
Use 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon ginger, and a pinch of cloves.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free puff pastry and skip the cream cheese.
How do I get perfect flaky layers?
Keep the pastry cold before baking — that’s the secret to maximum puff.
Can I add toppings?
Absolutely! Try a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Conclusion
Flaky Pumpkin Pie Twists capture the essence of fall in every bite — crisp, buttery layers wrapped around a sweet, spiced pumpkin filling. They’re quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious. Whether served as a brunch treat, dessert, or afternoon snack, they’ll bring the warm, cozy feeling of autumn right to your table. Once you try these golden twists, they’re sure to become your new fall baking favorite.