Pumpkin Twists are fun pastries that are both flaky and sweet, perfect for a cozy fall treat. Made with cream cheese and pumpkin, they are as delicious as they are beautiful!
These twists are great for breakfast or a snack, and they fill your kitchen with that lovely pumpkin spice smell. I love enjoying them fresh out of the oven with a hot cup of coffee. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the show, making your twists flaky and crispy. If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use crescent dough, though it will be slightly different in texture.
Pumpkin Puree: Always choose pure pumpkin puree for best flavor. If you can’t find it, homemade puree works too! Just roast a pumpkin and blend it smooth. Canned pumpkin or fresh are both great options.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a nice umami flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy. Grated Pecorino can work as a substitute too.
Garlic Powder: For a punch of flavor, garlic powder is perfect. If you prefer fresh, use minced garlic, but reduce the amount to about one clove.
Smoked Paprika: Adds depth and smokiness. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or cayenne pepper (for heat) can work as substitutes.
How Do You Twist the Pastry Like a Pro?
Getting those beautiful twists can seem tricky, but it’s simpler than you think! The key is to work with the pastry carefully to keep it from tearing.
- Make sure your pastry is cold but not frozen. Cold pastry is easier to handle.
- Cut even strips, about 1 inch wide, to ensure they twist nicely.
- Take one strip and hold both ends. Gently twist them in opposite directions.
- As you twist, keep a steady grip—don’t pull too hard or it might tear.
With practice, your twists will look impressive and taste amazing! Plus, they make a stunning addition to any table setting.
How to Make Pumpkin Twists
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh or dried thyme (for garnish, optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of around 30 minutes to enjoy these delicious snacks fresh from the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will make sure it’s hot enough when your twists go in, which is key for that nice, puffy texture.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet. This helps to smooth out any folds and makes the dough even, which is essential for rolling and cutting.
3. Mix the Pumpkin Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), and salt. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This will be the flavorful filling!
4. Spread the Filling:
Take the pumpkin mixture and spread it evenly over the surface of the puff pastry. Make sure to cover it well so every bite has that delicious pumpkin flavor!
5. Cut into Strips:
Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the pastry into strips that are about 1 inch wide. Make sure they are even so they’ll twist nicely.
6. Twist the Strips:
Now, take each strip and gently twist both ends in opposite directions. This will create that beautiful spiral twist that makes these pumpkin twists so fun and appealing!
7. Bake the Twists:
Arrange the twisted strips on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each one. This allows them to puff up and brown nicely in the oven.
8. Add the Egg Wash:
Beat the egg in a small bowl. Brush the tops of the twists lightly with the egg wash. This will give them a shiny golden brown color when they bake.
9. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the twists are puffed and golden brown.
10. Garnish and Serve:
After removing them from the oven, you can sprinkle some fresh or dried thyme on top for a lovely aroma and an extra touch of flavor. Let them cool slightly before enjoying them warm or at room temperature.
These deliciously savory-sweet pumpkin twists make a perfect cozy snack or a delightful appetizer! Enjoy!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pumpkin Puree?
Absolutely! Store-bought pumpkin puree is perfect for this recipe and saves time. Just make sure you choose pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices.
What Should I Do If My Puff Pastry Is Too Warm?
If your puff pastry becomes too warm and hard to handle, pop it back in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes to chill. Cold pastry twists better and will puff up nicely in the oven!
How Do I Store Leftover Pumpkin Twists?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, which keeps them crispy!
Can I Customize the Seasoning?
Yes! Feel free to adjust the spices in the pumpkin mixture to your taste. You can add a pinch of Italian seasoning, cayenne for heat, or even some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick!
