Air Fryer Pumpkin Twists are a perfect Fall recipe. They’re so easy to make and taste amazing, but that’s not all! You can also use your air fryer for other things like making french fries or even whole-roasted chicken. There’s never been a better time for you to buy an air fryer than now!

Air Fryer Pumpkin Twists
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Every year around this time, pumpkin spice everything has our mouths watering. From lattes to donuts and beyond, we love the flavor so much that we can’t get enough! This recipe is a delicious twist on your favorite fall treat, pumpkin pie.

These twists are light and fluffy, with just enough cinnamon sugar coating them for that perfect sweetness! After you try these out, you’ll never go back to making regular pumpkin pie again.

What is better than a warm slice of freshly baked pie? Not many things come to mind, but this recipe may be one. Pumpkin Pie Twists are the perfect addition to any holiday menu or even an afternoon snack with coffee or tea!

If you have never baked in your air fryer, let me tell you, it’s so good!

Not only is it easy, but the baked goods come out amazing! Truly delicious!

If you are looking for some more Air Fryer Pumpkin Recipes, some of my favorite recipes are AIR FRYER GLUTEN-FREE PUMPKIN BANANA NUT BREAD, AIR FRYER GLAZED PUMPKIN SCONES, AIR FRYER MUG PUMPKIN COFFEE CAKE, and AIR FRYER MINI PUMPKIN PIES.

What Is A Pumpkin Twist?

Pumpkin twists are a traditional holiday dessert made of crescent dough, sugar, and pumpkin pie. It’s a sweet twist on the classic pumpkin pie recipe. This post will provide all the ingredients needed to make this delicious treat!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Pumpkin Twists

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Pumpkin Twists
  • Granulated Sugar
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice
  • Butter
  • Crescent Dough
  • Canned Pumpkin
  • Cream Cheese
  • Powdered Sugar
  • Milk

How To Make Air Fryer Pumpkin Twists

Air Fryer Pumpkin Twists

Line the air fryer with parchment paper. In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Cut in butter, using a pastry blender or fork, until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.

Air Fryer Pumpkin Twists

Unroll dough on the work surface; press into a rectangle (if using crescent rolls, press seams to seal). Spread the canned pumpkin evenly over the dough to within 1/4 inch of the edges. Sprinkle with 3 tablespoons of the sugar mixture.

Air Fryer Pumpkin Twists

Roll the dough up, starting at one long side; pinch the seam to seal. Then, use a pizza cutter and cut down the middle. Braid the dough.

pumpkin twists

Place the pumpkin twist into an air fryer safe pan, or place only the parchment paper directly. Set into the air fryer, and air fry at 320 degrees F, air fryer setting, for 12 to 15 minutes.

Air Fryer Pumpkin Twists Icing

In a small microwavable bowl, place cream cheese. The microwave was uncovered on high for 10 to 15 seconds to soften slightly. Mix powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of the milk until smooth, adding additional milk until thin enough for icing. Drizzle on top of the twist.

Air Fryer Pumpkin Twists

Pro Tips

Making pumpkin twists in the air fryer can be a fun and delicious endeavor. Here are some pro tips to ensure you get the best results:

  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking from the start.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure there’s space between each twist, so they cook evenly and become crispy. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and make them stick together.
  • Use Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking and for easy cleanup, consider lining the air fryer basket with a piece of parchment paper that’s been cut to fit (with holes punched in for airflow).
  • Check Consistency: Air fryers can cook faster than traditional ovens. Begin checking your pumpkin twists a bit earlier than the recipe suggests to avoid overcooking.
  • Rotate or Flip: If you find that the bottom of the twists are browning faster than the tops, consider flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
  • Adjust Temperature: If you notice the twists browning too quickly, reduce the temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) and increase the cooking time slightly.
  • Glaze Post Cooking: If you’re adding a glaze or powdered sugar, do this after they come out of the air fryer while they’re still warm. This will help the glaze set nicely on the twist.
  • Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: If making your filling from scratch, consider using fresh pumpkin puree for a richer flavor.
  • Season Generously: Pumpkin filling benefits from warm spices. Don’t be shy with the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Adjust to your liking.
  • Cooling Rack: Once done, place the pumpkin twists on a cooling rack for a few minutes. This will help them stay crisp and prevent them from getting soggy.
Line the air fryer with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Cut in butter, using pastry blender or fork, until mixture forms coarse crumbs.
Unroll dough on work surface; press into a rectangle (using crescent rolls, press seams to seal).
Spread the canned pumpkin evenly over dough to within 1/4 inch of edges. Sprinkle with 3 tablespoons of the sugar mixture.
Roll the dough up starting at one long side; pinch seam to seal. Then use a pizza cutter, and cut down the middle. Braid the dough.
Place the pumpkin twist into an air fryer safe pan, or place directly only the parchment paper. Set into the air fryer, and air fry at 320 degrees F, air fryer setting, for 12 to 15 minutes.
In a small microwavable bowl, place cream cheese. Microwave uncovered on High for 10 to 15 seconds to slightly soften. Mix powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of the milk until smooth, adding additional milk until thin enough for icing.
Drizzle on top of the twist.
Plate, serve and enjoy!

Can I use store-bought pastry dough?

Yes, store-bought puff pastry or pie dough works well for this recipe and saves on prep time.

How long do the pumpkin twists last once cooked?

The twists are best enjoyed fresh, but they can last up to 2 days stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I make the pumpkin filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! The pumpkin filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before using.

Can I freeze the pumpkin twists before air frying?

Yes, you can freeze the shaped twists on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag and freeze them for up to a month. Air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

My twists browned too quickly, what happened?

Air fryers can vary in temperature. If your twists are browning too fast, reduce the temperature by 25°F and increase the cooking time slightly.

Why did my pumpkin twists open up during cooking?

Overfilling or not sealing the edges properly can cause the twists to open. Be sure to pinch the edges well before twisting.

Can I use other fillings besides pumpkin?

Certainly! You can experiment with other fillings like apple, cinnamon, and Nutella, or even savory fillings like cheese and herbs.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating the air fryer for consistent results is a good practice, but some models may not require it. Check your air fryer’s manual for guidance.

Can I brush the twists with something other than egg wash?

Yes, you can use melted butter or milk as an alternative to give the twists a golden color.

How do I know when the pumpkin twists are done?

The twists should be golden brown and crispy to the touch. The cooking time can vary based on the air fryer model and the thickness of your twists, so keep an eye on them, especially the first time you make them.

Equipment Used

Air Fryer: This recipe will work in any Air Fryer Basket or Oven Model. This recipe will also work in the Ninja Foodi, Instant Pot Crisp Lid, and Mealthy Lid. The cooking time will vary based on what air fryer you are using, so watch your pumpkin twists as they cook up.

Silicone Air Fryer Liner or Parchment Paper: I highly recommend using a silicone air fryer liner to make these. Otherwise, the dough will stick to the basket.

Pizza Cutter: There is nothing easier to cut the dough down the middle than a pizza cutter.

More Air Fryer Recipes

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Air Fryer Pumpkin Twists

Air Fryer Pumpkin Twists

5 from 2 votes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Icing: 5 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings

Description

Air Fryer Pumpkin Twists are a perfect Fall recipe. They're so easy to make and taste amazing, but that's not all! You can also use your air fryer for many other things like making french fries or even whole roasted chickens. There's never been a better time for you to buy an air fryer than now!

Ingredients 

Pumpkin Twist:

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 2 tablespoon butter
  • 1 can, 8 oz Pillsbury™ refrigerated crescent dough sheet or 1 can (8 oz) Pillsbury™ refrigerated crescent rolls
  • 1/3 cup canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie mix

Icing/Glaze:

  • 1 oz cream cheese, 2 tablespoons
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2to 1 teaspoon milk

Instructions

  • Line the air fryer with parchment paper.
  • In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Cut in butter, using pastry blender or fork, until mixture forms coarse crumbs.
  • Unroll dough on work surface; press into a rectangle (using crescent rolls, press seams to seal).
  • Spread the canned pumpkin evenly over dough to within 1/4 inch of edges. Sprinkle with 3 tablespoons of the sugar mixture.
  • Roll the dough up starting at one long side; pinch seam to seal. Then use a pizza cutter, and cut down the middle. Braid the dough.
  • Place the pumpkin twist into an air fryer safe pan, or place directly only the parchment paper. Set into the air fryer, and air fry at 320 degrees F, air fryer setting, for 12 to 15 minutes.
  • In a small microwavable bowl, place cream cheese. Microwave uncovered on High for 10 to 15 seconds to slightly soften. Mix powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of the milk until smooth, adding additional milk until thin enough for icing.
  • Drizzle on top of the twist.
  • Plate, serve and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Parchment Paper
  • Cooking Spray
  • Baking Pan, optional

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 81kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 0.4gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 11mgSodium: 35mgPotassium: 29mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 1726IUVitamin C: 0.5mgCalcium: 9mgIron: 0.2mg

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