Pumpkin Pie Twists: A Delicious & Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Pumpkin Pie Twists – prepare to be amazed! Imagine the warm, comforting flavors of classic pumpkin pie, but in a fun, portable, and utterly irresistible form. These aren’t your grandma’s pies (though she’d certainly approve!). We’re taking that beloved autumnal dessert and giving it a delightful twist, literally!

Pumpkin pie itself has a rich history, evolving from early pumpkin-based puddings brought over by European settlers. Over time, it transformed into the spiced, creamy custard we know and love, becoming a Thanksgiving staple and a symbol of cozy fall gatherings. But let’s be honest, sometimes you crave that pumpkin pie goodness without the fuss of baking a whole pie. That’s where these Pumpkin Pie Twists come in!

What makes these twists so special? It’s the perfect combination of flaky, buttery pastry and that signature pumpkin spice filling. The texture is divine – a satisfying crunch followed by a smooth, creamy burst of flavor. Plus, they’re incredibly convenient. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply a delightful afternoon treat with a cup of coffee or tea. Get ready to experience pumpkin pie in a whole new, exciting way!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
• All-purpose flour, for dusting
• For the Pumpkin Filling:
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the Egg Wash:
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon milk or water
• For the Sugar Topping:
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Preparing the Pumpkin Filling:

Alright, let’s get started with the heart of our pumpkin pie twists – the delicious pumpkin filling! This is where all the warm, cozy flavors come together, so pay close attention.

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, light brown sugar, heavy cream, melted butter, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined and there are no lumps of brown sugar. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
2. Taste and Adjust: Now, this is important! Give the filling a little taste. Does it need a bit more spice? A touch more sweetness? Feel free to adjust the spices or brown sugar to your liking. Remember, you’re the chef here! I sometimes add a tiny pinch more of cloves for a deeper flavor.
3. Set Aside: Once you’re happy with the flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and set it aside. This will allow the flavors to meld together while we prepare the dough.

Preparing the Dough and Assembling the Twists:

Now for the fun part – working with the pie crust and creating those beautiful twists! Don’t be intimidated; it’s easier than it looks. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be a pro in no time.

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the twists from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Unroll the Pie Crusts: Lightly flour a clean work surface. Unroll one of the refrigerated pie crusts onto the floured surface. Gently stretch it out slightly if needed to make it a more even rectangle.
3. Spread the Filling: Using a spoon or spatula, spread half of the pumpkin filling evenly over the pie crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. This border will help seal the twists and prevent the filling from leaking out.
4. Top with the Second Crust: Carefully unroll the second pie crust and place it on top of the filling-covered crust. Gently press down around the edges to seal the two crusts together.
5. Cut into Strips: Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the layered pie crust into strips that are about 1 inch wide. The length of the strips will depend on the size of your pie crusts, but aim for strips that are around 6-8 inches long.
6. Create the Twists: Now for the twist! Pick up one strip at each end and gently twist it several times. Place the twisted strip onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process with all the remaining strips. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; the imperfections add to their charm!
7. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk (or water) to create the egg wash. Brush the tops of each twist with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color and a slight sheen.
8. Sugar Topping: In another small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the egg-washed twists. This adds a touch of sweetness and extra spice.

Baking the Pumpkin Pie Twists:

Almost there! Now it’s time to bake these beauties until they’re golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The aroma that will fill your kitchen is simply divine!

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
2. Cool: Once the twists are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent them from becoming soggy.

Serving and Storing:

Congratulations! You’ve made your very own pumpkin pie twists. Now it’s time to enjoy the fruits (or rather, pumpkins) of your labor!

• Serving: These pumpkin pie twists are best served warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a snack. Serve them with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
• Storing: Store any leftover twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave for a few seconds.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it Up: Feel free to experiment with different spices in the filling. A pinch of nutmeg or allspice would also be delicious.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling before adding the second pie crust for a nutty twist.
• Cream Cheese Filling: For a richer filling, try adding a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese to the pumpkin mixture.
• Chocolate Chips: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey surprise.
• Icing: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar icing over the cooled twists for an extra touch of sweetness. To make the icing, whisk together powdered sugar with a little milk or lemon juice until you reach your desired consistency.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the pumpkin filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day you want to bake the twists.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked twists for up to 2 months. To bake, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. You can also freeze the baked twists. Let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature and then warm them in the oven or microwave.

Troubleshooting:

• Filling Leaking: If the filling is leaking out of the twists during baking, make sure you’ve sealed the edges of the pie crusts well. You can also try using a slightly thicker filling.
• Twists Not Twisting: If the strips are difficult to twist, try chilling the dough in the refrigerator for a few minutes before twisting. This will make it easier to handle.
• Twists Burning: If the twists are burning on the bottom, try placing a second baking sheet underneath the first one. This will help to insulate the bottom of the twists and prevent them from burning.

I hope you enjoy making and eating these pumpkin pie twists as much as I do! They’re a perfect treat for any occasion, and they’re sure to impress your friends and family. Happy baking!

Conclusion:

Okay, friends, let’s be honest: you’ve scrolled this far because you’re intrigued, and I’m here to tell you that intrigue is absolutely warranted! These Pumpkin Pie Twists are more than just a cute snack; they’re a bite-sized explosion of autumnal flavor that will have everyone begging for more. Seriously, prepare to be the hero of your next gathering, the star of your next bake sale, or simply the champion of your own cozy evening in.

Why are these a must-try? Because they capture the essence of pumpkin pie – that warm, spiced, comforting feeling – in a fun, portable, and surprisingly easy-to-make package. Forget spending hours fussing over a traditional pie crust; these twists use readily available puff pastry, making them a weeknight-friendly treat. Plus, the filling is a cinch to whip up, using simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. The combination of flaky, buttery pastry and creamy, spiced pumpkin filling is simply irresistible.

But the best part? These Pumpkin Pie Twists are incredibly versatile! Want to take them to the next level? Consider these serving suggestions and variations:

Serving Suggestions:

* Warm with a dollop of whipped cream: A classic pairing that never fails. The cool, creamy whipped cream perfectly complements the warm, spiced twists.
* Drizzled with caramel sauce: For an extra touch of sweetness and indulgence. The caramel adds a rich, buttery flavor that enhances the pumpkin spice.
* Served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream: A delightful dessert option, especially on a warm autumn day. The cold ice cream provides a refreshing contrast to the warm twists.
* Alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea: The perfect afternoon pick-me-up. The warm beverage complements the spiced flavors of the twists.
* As part of a Thanksgiving dessert platter: A unique and festive addition to your holiday spread. They’re sure to be a conversation starter!

Variations to Try:

* Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Pie Twists: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the pumpkin filling for a decadent twist. The chocolate adds a rich, melty element that complements the pumpkin spice.
* Pecan Pumpkin Pie Twists: Sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the twists before baking for added crunch and nutty flavor. The pecans add a textural element and enhance the autumnal flavors.
* Maple Glazed Pumpkin Pie Twists: Brush the baked twists with a maple glaze for a touch of sweetness and shine. The maple glaze adds a subtle sweetness and a beautiful glossy finish.
* Cream Cheese Filling: Mix a bit of cream cheese into the pumpkin filling for a tangier, richer flavor. The cream cheese adds a creamy, tangy element that balances the sweetness of the pumpkin.
* Spiced Sugar Topping: Instead of plain sugar, sprinkle the twists with a mixture of sugar and pumpkin pie spice before baking for an extra burst of flavor. The spiced sugar adds a warm, aromatic touch.

I truly believe you’ll love these Pumpkin Pie Twists as much as I do. They’re the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall, and they’re guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create some magic in the kitchen!

And please, please, please – once you’ve made them, come back and share your experience! Let me know what you thought, what variations you tried, and how much everyone loved them. I can’t wait to hear your stories and see your creations. Happy baking! Don’t forget to tag me in your photos on social media – I’d love to see your Pumpkin Pie Twists in action!