Description
This Easy Twisted Pumpkin Spice Danish recipe combines flaky puff pastry with a creamy pumpkin spice filling, perfect for a cozy fall treat. Featuring warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, along with pumpkin puree and cream cheese, these delicate twists are simple to prepare and bake to a golden perfection. Garnished with a buttery glaze and extra spice sugar, they make a delightful breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients
Scale
Spice Mix
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Filling
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
Pastry and Topping
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make Pumpkin Spice Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices throughout the sugar mix.
- Prepare Pumpkin Mixture: In a separate small bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of the pumpkin spice sugar mixture. Stir until smooth and well combined, creating a flavorful pumpkin filling.
- Assemble Puff Pastry Strips: Lay each sheet of thawed puff pastry flat on a clean surface. Evenly spread the softened cream cheese over each sheet, then spread the pumpkin mixture over the cream cheese layer. Cut each sheet lengthwise into 6 strips, about 1/2 inch wide. Fold each strip in half lengthwise to enclose the filling, then gently twist each strip several times. Place the twisted strips onto the prepared baking sheets. For a swirl effect, you can roll each twist into a coil instead. Don’t worry if some filling oozes out.
- Brush and Sprinkle: Generously brush each twist with the melted butter. Sprinkle evenly with the remaining pumpkin spice sugar mixture to add sweetness and spice.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake the pumpkin spice twists in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they turn lightly golden and puffed.
- Serve Warm: Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve warm, optionally with a light dusting or sprinkle of coarse sugar for added texture and sweetness.
Notes
- Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed before working with it for easier handling and better texture.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use dairy-free butter.
- These twists can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving for best freshness.
- Adding coarse sugar on top before baking can give a delightful crunchy texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat briefly in the oven for best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg