Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists bring warm pumpkin pie flavor into crisp, buttery crescent pastries. Plus, they take just 20 minutes, so they make a fun fall treat when you want something sweet without much fuss.
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Why You’ll Love These Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists
These Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists combine creamy pumpkin, maple syrup, brown sugar, and cozy spices inside flaky crescent dough. Then, a buttery cinnamon sugar topping adds a sweet, lightly crisp finish.
Also, you only need 10 minutes to prep them and about 10 minutes to bake them. As a result, you can have approximately 10 to 12 golden pumpkin twists ready in just 20 minutes.
I especially love how festive they look without requiring complicated pastry skills. In fact, the little spirals look cute enough for a Thanksgiving dessert table or Halloween party.
Ingredients for Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists
You only need a handful of familiar ingredients for Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists. Also, refrigerated dough keeps the prep quick, while pumpkin and warm spices give every bite that classic fall flavor.
Crescent Roll Dough
Refrigerated crescent roll dough creates the buttery, flaky layers. It also browns beautifully in the oven and makes shaping the spirals simple.
Pumpkin Pie Filling
Pumpkin puree forms the base of the filling. Brown sugar adds rich sweetness, while maple syrup brings a warm fall flavor.
Then, pumpkin pie spice adds those familiar cozy notes that make these Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists taste like pumpkin pie in pastry form.
Cinnamon-Sugar Topping
Melted butter helps the outside turn rich and golden. Meanwhile, granulated sugar and cinnamon create a sweet, fragrant coating on top.
Optional Whipped Cream or Icing for Serving
Whipped cream makes a light and creamy dip for the warm twists. However, you can drizzle icing over the pastries instead if you want a sweeter finish.
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists
Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists come together quickly, so have your ingredients ready before you begin. Also, work on a cutting board when layering and slicing the dough.
Prepare the Baking Sheet and Pumpkin Filling
First, preheat your oven to 375°F. Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Next, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir until the mixture looks smooth and evenly blended.
Layer the Crescent Dough and Pumpkin Filling
Unroll the crescent dough onto a cutting board. Then, divide the dough into two equal rectangles and place them side by side.
Spread a thin, even layer of pumpkin mixture over one rectangle. Next, place the second rectangle directly on top and carefully line up the edges.
Cut the Dough Into Strips
Cut the layered dough into strips about 3/4 inch wide. Then, gently move each strip onto your prepared baking sheet.
Try to keep the strips similar in width. As a result, the Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists should bake more evenly.
Twist the Pumpkin Pie Strips
Hold one end of a strip and twist it about twice. Then, twist the opposite end another two or three times until you create a pretty spiral.
However, avoid pulling too hard as you twist. The dough should stay thick enough to hold the pumpkin filling.
Brush With Butter and Add Cinnamon Sugar
Brush each spiral generously with melted butter. Next, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together.
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar over the buttered twists. As they bake, the topping creates a sweet and lightly crisp surface.
Bake Until Golden Brown
Bake the Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists at 375°F for 8 to 11 minutes. Then, remove them when the crescent dough looks puffed and golden brown.
Let them cool slightly before serving. Meanwhile, get your whipped cream or icing ready if you plan to add something extra.
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Pie Twists
Although this recipe stays simple, a few small details make shaping much easier. In particular, pay attention to the amount of pumpkin filling you add.
Keep the Pumpkin Filling Thin
Spread only a thin layer of filling over the crescent dough. Otherwise, excess pumpkin can squeeze through the edges when you twist the strips.
Also, spread the filling evenly. That way, you get pumpkin flavor throughout each pastry without making the dough difficult to handle.
Cut and Shape the Dough on a Cutting Board
Layer and cut your dough on a cutting board instead of directly on the parchment paper. Otherwise, your knife may slice through the parchment underneath.
Then, transfer the strips to your lined baking sheet before twisting. This simple method keeps your baking sheet ready and makes cleanup easier.
How to Get the Perfect Spiral Shape
Start by twisting one end of each strip about twice. Next, twist the other end two or three times in the opposite direction.
You do not need identical spirals. In fact, the slightly different shapes give these Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists a charming homemade look.
How to Keep the Filling From Squeezing Out
Use a thin layer of pumpkin filling and avoid pressing hard on the dough. Also, twist the strips gently rather than stretching them.
If a little pumpkin escapes, simply continue shaping the pastry. However, adding too much filling will make the strips much harder to twist neatly.
Easy Variations and Serving Ideas
These pumpkin twists taste wonderful warm from the oven. However, you can easily change the finishing touch to suit your dessert table or occasion.
Serve With Whipped Cream for Dipping
Add a bowl of whipped cream alongside the Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists. Then, everyone can dip the warm spirals into the cool, fluffy cream.
This combination feels especially fun for kids and casual fall gatherings. Plus, dipping makes these little pastries even more dessert like.
Add a Sweet Icing Drizzle
For a sweeter treat, drizzle your favorite icing over the baked twists. However, let them cool slightly first so the icing stays visible instead of melting immediately.
A simple icing also makes the twists look extra special. Therefore, this option works nicely when you serve them for brunch or dessert.
Make Them for Thanksgiving or Halloween
The pumpkin flavor makes Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists a natural fit for Thanksgiving and Halloween. Plus, their handheld size makes serving simple when you have a crowd.
For Thanksgiving, arrange them on a platter with whipped cream for dipping. Meanwhile, for Halloween, serve them as a quick pumpkin treat before or after the festivities.
How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Pie Twists
These pastries taste best when fresh and warm. However, you can save leftovers and warm them again later.
Storing Leftover Pumpkin Twists
First, let the leftover twists cool completely. Then, place them in a covered food storage container and refrigerate them because they contain pumpkin puree.
For the best texture, enjoy your leftovers soon. Also, keep any whipped cream or icing separate until serving.
The Best Way to Reheat Them
For a crisper texture, warm the twists briefly in an oven or air fryer until heated through. Keep an eye on them, though, because the cinnamon sugar can brown quickly.
You can also use a microwave when convenience matters most. However, the crescent dough will turn softer rather than crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Pumpkin Pie Twists Ahead of Time?
Yes. You can bake Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists ahead of serving and warm them again when needed.
However, they have their best flaky texture shortly after baking. Therefore, when possible, bake them close to serving time.
Can I Use Homemade Crescent Dough?
Yes, homemade crescent style dough can work if it rolls and shapes easily. However, refrigerated crescent dough makes this recipe especially quick and convenient.
Can I Use Pumpkin Pie Filling Instead of Pumpkin Puree?
Pumpkin pie filling already contains sweeteners and spices, while pumpkin puree gives you control over those flavors. Therefore, this recipe specifically calls for plain pumpkin puree.
Why Is My Pumpkin Filling Squeezing Out?
You probably added too much filling or twisted the strips too tightly. Instead, spread a thin layer of pumpkin mixture and use a gentle touch when shaping.
How Do I Know When the Pumpkin Pie Twists Are Done?
Look for puffed crescent layers and an even golden brown color. Generally, Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists need about 8 to 11 minutes at 375°F.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
If pumpkin and cinnamon treats make your fall baking list, try a few more cozy recipes next. Also, these sweet ideas work well for autumn gatherings, weekend baking, and holiday dessert tables.
- easy pumpkin pie cupcakes offer another simple way to enjoy classic pumpkin pie flavor.
- quick and easy pumpkin butter gives toast, biscuits, and breakfast treats a cozy pumpkin touch.
- simple churro cheesecake with cinnamon sugar combines creamy cheesecake with plenty of cinnamon sweetness.
- soft baked maple donut bars bring another warm maple flavor to your fall baking plans.
- apple cheesecake bars for Thanksgiving make a rich seasonal option for your holiday dessert spread.
- cinnamon apple oatmeal muffins pair tender apple with cozy cinnamon for an easy breakfast or snack.
Final Thoughts
Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists give you all those cozy pumpkin, maple, cinnamon, and buttery flavors in a fun little spiral pastry. Better yet, they take only about 20 minutes from start to finish.
So, serve them warm with whipped cream, add a sweet icing drizzle, or enjoy one straight from the baking sheet. They make fall baking feel easy, festive, and delicious.
For even more seasonal recipe inspiration, you can also follow Ellie’s Microwave Recipes on Pinterest and save your favorite fall ideas for later.
Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
- 1 tube refrigerated crescent roll dough
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- whipped cream for dipping, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
- Unroll the crescent dough on a cutting board. Divide it into 2 equal rectangles and place them side by side.
- Spread a thin, even layer of pumpkin filling over 1 rectangle of dough.
- Place the second dough rectangle on top of the pumpkin covered rectangle and carefully align the edges.
- Cut the layered dough into strips about 3/4 inch wide. Then, carefully move the strips to the prepared baking sheet.
- Twist each strip from both ends to create a spiral shape. For easier shaping, twist about twice from one end and another 2 to 3 times from the opposite end.
- Brush each pumpkin twist generously with melted butter.
- Combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Then, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the twists.
- Bake at 375°F for 8 to 11 minutes, or until the twists look puffed and golden brown.
- Let the pumpkin twists cool slightly. Then, serve them with whipped cream for dipping or add an icing drizzle if desired.
