Looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert that screams fall but takes minimal effort? These Pumpkin Pie Twists are the answer. With the warm flavors of pumpkin spice wrapped in golden crescent dough, this easy treat is perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or a chilly autumn evening at home. In less than 20 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these irresistible pumpkin pastries that pair perfectly with whipped cream or a drizzle of icing.

Pumpkin Pie Twists fresh out of the oven on a parchment-lined baking sheet

These Pumpkin Pie Twists aren’t just delicious—they check all the boxes for what makes a dessert a keeper. They’re quick to make, family-friendly, and use simple, store-bought ingredients. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to twist up a batch of these golden, cinnamon-sugar-coated spirals.

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep
Fall Flavor Favorite: Pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and maple make these instantly craveable
Kid-Approved: A fun recipe to bake with kids and perfect for dipping in whipped cream
Perfect for Parties: A festive dessert that travels well and disappears fast at gatherings

What You’ll Need for These Pumpkin Twists

Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough: Forms the soft, flaky layers for the twists
Pumpkin Puree: Adds rich, earthy sweetness and seasonal flavor
Brown Sugar: Boosts the molasses flavor and deepens the sweetness
Maple Syrup: Infuses warm, natural sweetness and complements the pumpkin perfectly
Pumpkin Spice: Brings the signature fall aroma and spiced taste
Butter: Helps crisp the twists and acts as a base for the cinnamon sugar to adhere
Sugar: Adds a light crunch on top and balances the spices
Cinnamon: Enhances the pumpkin pie twist flavor with warm spice
Whipped Cream (Optional): A creamy dip that elevates each bite with luscious texture

Creative Ingredient Swaps & Dietary Tweaks

If you’re missing an ingredient or want to adapt the recipe for dietary needs, try these swaps:

Crescent Dough Substitute: Puff pastry works great for a flakier, more buttery texture
Pumpkin Puree Alternatives: Try sweet potato puree or butternut squash for a similar profile
Sugar-Free Version: Use coconut sugar or a stevia blend for a lower-sugar twist
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and skip whipped cream, or opt for coconut whip
Extra Spice: Add nutmeg or cloves for a deeper spice note in the pumpkin mixture

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Twists – Step by Step

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, maple syrup, and pumpkin spice until smooth.
  3. Prepare the Dough: Unroll the crescent dough on a flat surface. Separate it into two identical rectangles and lay them side by side.
  4. Spread the Mixture: Evenly spread the pumpkin filling on one rectangle of dough, ensuring full coverage.
  5. Layer and Align: Carefully place the second rectangle on top of the first, aligning the edges.
  6. Cut into Strips: Use a pizza cutter to slice the dough into strips about ¾ inch wide.
  7. Twist the Dough: Pick up each strip and twist it a couple of times from both ends to form spirals.
  8. Add Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: Brush melted butter over each twist. Then, mix sugar and cinnamon together and sprinkle generously over the dough.
  9. Bake: Place twists on the lined sheet and bake for 8–11 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
  10. Cool & Serve: Let them cool slightly, then serve with whipped cream or icing if desired.
Pumpkin Pie Twists fresh out of the oven on a parchment-lined baking sheet

Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Pie Twists

Don’t Overfill: Use a thin layer of pumpkin mixture to prevent overflow during baking
Twist from Both Ends: Twisting from both ends makes the spiral tighter and more uniform
Watch the Oven: Crescent dough browns quickly—check for doneness at the 8-minute mark
Line the Tray: Always use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup
Double the Batch: These go fast, especially at gatherings, so consider making two trays

Delicious Pairings & Recipe Variations

Pumpkin Pie Twists are incredibly versatile. Here’s how you can switch things up:

Serve with: Warm caramel dip, cream cheese frosting, or spiced apple cider
Add Texture: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the twists in advance and refrigerate before baking
Holiday Style: Add a drizzle of white chocolate and a sprinkle of orange sprinkles for Halloween
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free crescent dough or a homemade GF pastry base

Why Pumpkin Pie Twists Belong in Your Fall Recipe Lineup

From weeknight treats to festive holiday platters, these Pumpkin Pie Twists deliver on both taste and convenience. They fill your home with the cozy scent of fall spices and offer a nostalgic nod to pumpkin pie—without the time or fuss of rolling out crust. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or just looking for a fun dessert to make with kids, these twists hit the sweet spot.

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Wrapping Up: Why Pumpkin Pie Twists Are a Must-Try This Season

Whether you’re planning a festive dessert spread or just craving a cozy fall snack, Pumpkin Pie Twists are a sweet shortcut to comfort and flavor. The recipe’s simplicity, warm spices, and kid-friendly appeal make it a seasonal staple you’ll want to bake again and again. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, these golden, cinnamon-coated twists offer all the nostalgia of classic pumpkin pie—without the hassle.

Perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or just an afternoon treat with coffee or cider, Pumpkin Pie Twists are sure to become a go-to favorite in your fall recipe collection.

FAQ About Pumpkin Pie Twists

Can I make Pumpkin Pie Twists ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the twists a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. For best results, bake them fresh to maintain the crispy texture. If storing after baking, reheat them in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes to revive their crunch.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Pie Twists?

Absolutely. Once baked and cooled, place the Pumpkin Pie Twists in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes until warmed through and crisp. They’re best enjoyed within one month of freezing.

How do I prevent the twists from unrolling while baking?

Make sure to twist each strip from both ends to secure the spiral. Press the ends slightly into the parchment paper on the baking tray. Using a thin layer of filling also helps prevent slippage and leaking during baking.

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Pumpkin Pie Twists

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Pumpkin Pie Twists are a quick and easy fall dessert made with crescent roll dough, pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a dusting of cinnamon sugar. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or cozy autumn evenings, these golden, flaky twists are kid-friendly and delicious served with whipped cream or a sweet drizzle.

  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 11 minutes
  • Total Time: 21 minutes
  • Yield: 11 twists 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tube refrigerated crescent roll dough
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Whipped cream for dipping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
  3. Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into two identical rectangles. Lay them side by side on a cutting board.
  4. Evenly spread the pumpkin mixture over one rectangle of dough, covering the entire surface.
  5. Place the second rectangle on top of the pumpkin-covered dough and align the edges.
  6. Using a pizza cutter, slice the dough into ¾-inch-wide strips.
  7. Transfer the strips to the baking sheet. Twist each strip by turning one end twice and the opposite end another 2–3 times to form spirals.
  8. Brush melted butter over each twist.
  9. Mix the sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it evenly over the twists.
  10. Bake for 8–11 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
  11. Serve warm with whipped cream or a drizzle of icing, if desired.

Notes

  • Use a thin layer of pumpkin filling to avoid leakage while twisting.
  • Twisting from both ends helps maintain a tighter spiral shape.
  • These twists are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored and reheated.
  • For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans before baking.
  • Puff pastry or pie crust can be used as an alternative to crescent dough.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 twist
  • Calories: 135
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

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