Embrace the warmth of autumn with this incredibly easy and utterly delicious Pumpkin Spice Bread Twist Wreath. This festive bread, shaped elegantly into a wreath, is designed to impress your family and friends during the holidays and throughout the fall season. Combining the convenience of frozen dough with the irresistible flavors of pumpkin spice, it promises a homemade touch without the fuss.
This culinary delight is proudly brought to you by Bridgford Foods.
As the leaves begin to turn and a crispness fills the air, there’s no denying it’s pumpkin spice season! While traditional baking often demands significant time and effort, this recipe masterfully simplifies the process. By utilizing readily available frozen dough, you can create a stunning and mouth-watering bread twist that appears complex but is surprisingly simple to assemble. Prepare to dazzle your guests with this delightful “homemade” bread wreath, full of rich flavor and festive charm.
In the kitchen, I always prioritize both ease and exquisite taste. My philosophy revolves around discovering time-saving techniques that consistently deliver outstanding culinary results. When that first bite is taken, the delightful flavor is what truly matters, not the intricate journey taken to achieve it. This Pumpkin Spice Bread Twist perfectly embodies that principle, offering maximum impact with minimal effort.
What Makes a Pumpkin Spice Bread Twist Wreath So Special?
Beyond its incredible flavor, the immediate appeal of this Pumpkin Spice Bread lies in its captivating presentation. Formed into a beautiful wreath, it’s a true centerpiece for any fall or holiday gathering. But its beauty is more than skin deep; this bread twist delivers a rich, aromatic, and bold pumpkin spice flavor that perfectly complements the flaky, tender layers of sweet bread. Each bite is a harmonious blend of warm spices and soft dough, creating a truly memorable experience.
So, how does one achieve this unique and impressive design with such ease? This bread recipe holds a few clever “twists” of its own, making it accessible to even novice bakers:
Firstly, despite its layered appearance, reminiscent of a complex pastry, crafting this bread twist wreath is remarkably straightforward. The thawed dough is simply rolled up, much like a jelly roll, then carefully sliced lengthwise down the middle. It’s these exposed cut sides that, when twisted and formed, create the signature beautifully layered effect, making it look far more intricate than it is.
Another fantastic aspect of this bread twist wreath recipe is its incredible versatility. The core technique allows for countless flavor variations, transforming it from a sweet treat to a savory appetizer with simple ingredient swaps.
Craving a savory start to your meal? Effortlessly pivot to a savory appetizer by replacing the sweet filling with a vibrant pesto. Not particularly fond of pumpkin spice, or perhaps you prefer a timeless classic? Simply swap the pumpkin spice blend for a generous amount of cinnamon to create a beloved Cinnamon Bread Twist. You can also customize the topping: add your favorite glaze and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra texture, or keep it elegantly plain. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this bread twist to any occasion or preference.
For those seeking a savory braided bread, perfect as an appetizer or side dish, explore our delightful Pesto Cheese Bread Twist recipe!
Are you a fan of the convenience and quality of frozen dough recipes? Then you’ll love exploring some of our other popular creations! Dive into the savory delights of our Ham and Cheese Pull Apart Bread, perfect for sharing. For a sweet treat, try our elegant Braided Lemon Bread Recipe or the comforting Overnight French Toast Casserole. Planning a game day or casual get-together? Our Spicy Italian Sliders are always a hit. And for a fun snack, don’t miss our Soft Pretzel Dough recipe, another testament to the versatility of ready-made dough.
Essential Ingredients for Your Pumpkin Spice Bread Twist
The cornerstone of this easy bread wreath is a bag of Bridgford’s Ready-Dough. Each bag conveniently contains three frozen loaves, though you’ll only need one for this recipe. Keep the others frozen for future culinary adventures, perhaps for an Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole!
Here’s a complete list of the simple ingredients required to craft this marvelous Pumpkin Spice Bread Twist:
- Frozen Bread Dough (Bridgford Ready-Dough recommended)
- Unsalted Butter
- Granulated Sugar
- Pumpkin Pie Spice
- Ground Cinnamon
- Large Egg (for egg wash)
- Confectioners Sugar
- Almond Extract (or Vanilla Extract)
Chef’s Note: If almond extract isn’t available, high-quality vanilla extract makes an excellent substitute, offering a subtly different but equally delicious aroma and flavor to your glaze.
Equipment You’ll Need for this Bread Twist Recipe
Gathering your tools before you begin ensures a smooth and enjoyable baking process. For this recipe, you’ll need just a few basic kitchen essentials:
- Baking Sheet: A large, sturdy baking sheet will provide ample space for your wreath to bake evenly.
- Pastry Brush: Essential for spreading butter and egg wash with precision.
- Parchment Paper: For easy handling of the dough and preventing sticking, ensuring a clean release from the baking sheet.
- Sharp Knife: A very sharp knife, ideally serrated, will ensure clean cuts through the dough.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Easy Pumpkin Spice Bread Twist
This bread wreath recipe is not only incredibly versatile for adapting to your preferred flavors, but it’s also straightforward to follow. Here’s how to prepare it with the classic pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon combination for an irresistible fall treat that will fill your home with delightful aromas:
1. Prepare the Dough: Begin by taking one loaf of frozen Bridgford Ready-Dough from its packaging and allowing it to thaw completely. This typically takes a few hours at room temperature, or overnight in the refrigerator.
Once the dough is fully thawed and pliable, gently transfer it to a lightly floured surface, a silicone baking mat (Silpat), or a sheet of parchment paper. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough evenly until it forms a rectangle approximately 12 inches by 18 inches, with a consistent thickness of about 1/2 inch.
Next, using your pastry brush, generously spread the softened, not melted, butter across the entire surface of the rolled dough, ensuring you leave a 1/2-inch margin clear around all the edges. This margin helps to seal the filling when you roll the dough.
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and pumpkin spice. Sprinkle this fragrant mixture evenly over the buttered dough, making sure every part is coated for maximum flavor. Now, starting from one of the long sides, firmly and carefully roll the dough up lengthwise, creating a tight log, jelly-roll style.
Once rolled, gently transfer the dough log to a clean surface. Using a very sharp knife (a serrated knife often works best), carefully cut the dough log in half lengthwise. This cut will expose the beautiful layers of butter and spice within. For an even smoother cut, try spraying your knife with a little cooking oil before slicing, as this can prevent sticking.
2. Twist and Shape the Bread: Take the two halves of the dough, ensuring the cut sides are facing upwards. Gently twist these two strands together, always keeping the cut, layered side visible on the exterior. This technique is what gives the bread its distinctive, artfully layered appearance. Once twisted, bring the ends of the twisted dough together to form a beautiful circular wreath. Lightly pinch the ends to secure the shape, creating your impressive bread twist wreath. Carefully transfer the shaped wreath to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Lightly spray the entire wreath with cooking oil and cover it loosely with plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free location for approximately 45 minutes. During this time, the bread twist will become noticeably puffy, though it may not quite double in size. As the rising time nears its end, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While you wait, consider exploring our recipe for homemade bread bowls, perfect for hearty soups!
3. Bake and Glaze the Bread: Once your oven is preheated, gently brush the risen bread twist wreath with a beaten egg wash. This will give it a beautiful golden sheen during baking. Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the bread is lightly golden brown and a thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads an internal temperature of 200°F (93°C). The scent of warm pumpkin spice will surely fill your kitchen!
Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack while you prepare the simple glaze. For the glaze, whisk together the confectioners sugar, a small amount of softened butter, and the almond (or vanilla) extract until smooth and creamy. Once the Pumpkin Spice Bread Twist has thoroughly cooled, generously drizzle the prepared glaze over the top. Now, it’s ready to slice, serve, and enjoy!
Prepare yourself for a chorus of compliments! Everyone will adore this exceptional bread twist!
Delightful Recipe Variations
The beauty of this bread twist recipe lies in its adaptability. Once you master the basic technique, feel free to unleash your creativity and explore these tempting variations:
- Classic Cinnamon Bread Twist: For a timeless favorite, simply omit the pumpkin spice and instead use 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon for the filling. The warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon alone is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Savory Pesto Cheese Bread Twist: Transform this sweet bread into a fantastic savory appetizer! Skip the granulated sugar, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon. Instead, spread a generous layer of your favorite pesto over the dough. For extra flavor and texture, sprinkle with shredded Mozzarella cheese and finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional, but highly recommended). Continue with the twisting and baking instructions as directed.
- Aromatic Garlic Bread Twist: Another superb savory option! Omit all the sweet elements – sugar, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon. Create a savory butter spread by mixing softened butter with a generous amount of garlic powder (or minced fresh garlic). Spread this garlic butter over the dough, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley (if desired). This makes an excellent accompaniment to Italian meals or as a standalone snack.
- Simple & Elegant: If you prefer a less sweet option, you can completely omit the glaze. Instead, simply dust the cooled bread twist lightly with confectioners sugar for a subtle sweetness and beautiful presentation.
Serving Your Pumpkin Spice Bread Twist
This bread twist is undeniably at its best when served fresh, ideally on the same day it’s baked. Its tender texture and vibrant flavors are most pronounced when warm. If you need to reheat it, a brief stint in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes will bring it back to its warm, inviting state.
Serve this delightful bread twist as is, allowing its rich flavors to shine on their own, or elevate it with a simple, sweet glaze. A quick glaze can be easily made by combining confectioners sugar, a splash of milk, and a hint of almond extract for a touch of elegance. For an added layer of texture and nutty flavor, sprinkle some chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds over the glaze before serving.
Beyond being a wonderful sweet treat, this bread twist also makes an exceptional appetizer! Simply cut it into 1-2 inch slices and arrange them alongside your favorite dipping sauces. Some fantastic pairing suggestions include a tangy honey hot and sweet mustard for a kick, or a creamy cheese dip, reminiscent of a pretzel dipping experience. Its versatile nature makes it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering.
Storing Your Pumpkin Spice Bread Wreath
Should you have any delectable leftovers, fear not! This Pumpkin Spice Bread Twist can be stored to preserve its flavor and freshness. Place any remaining bread twist in an airtight container and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. To enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for approximately 10 minutes, or until it’s pleasantly warm throughout.
For longer storage, the bread twist freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air can get in, and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the bread overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it using the instructions mentioned above for a delicious return to its freshly baked glory.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Spice Bread Twist
Absolutely! While using frozen Ready-Dough offers unparalleled speed and convenience, you are certainly welcome to substitute it with your favorite homemade bread dough. If you prefer to bake from scratch, I also have a wonderful recipe for homemade white sandwich bread that would work beautifully here.
If your dough becomes overly soft and difficult to manage while cutting or twisting, it’s likely become too warm. To remedy this, lightly spray the dough roll with cooking oil, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and place it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes. This chilling period will help the dough firm up, making it much easier to work with.
Yes, you can absolutely use ghee or a non-dairy butter alternative in place of regular butter for both the filling and the glaze. Ensure they are at the correct consistency (melted for the filling, room temperature for the glaze) as specified in the recipe for best results.
No pumpkin spice? No problem! You can easily substitute it with either ground cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a combination of both. Adjust the amount to your personal preference for a delightful alternative flavor profile. A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves can also create your own custom “pumpkin pie spice” blend.
More Easy Baking Recipes To Love…
If you enjoyed the simplicity and deliciousness of this Pumpkin Spice Bread Twist, you’ll be thrilled to discover more of our easy-to-follow baking recipes designed to bring joy to your kitchen with minimal effort:
- Quick and Easy Homemade Burger Buns: Elevate your burgers with these soft, fresh buns.
- Loaded Mashed Potatoes: A comforting and hearty side dish that’s always a hit.
- Cookie Creme Brulee: A unique and elegant dessert that combines two favorites.
- Decadent Chocolate White Chocolate Chip Cookies: A classic cookie recipe with a delightful twist.
If you tried this Pumpkin Spice Bread Twist recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below. Your feedback is greatly appreciated! Thanks for visiting!
Pumpkin Spice Bread Twist
Renae Gerhardstein
Pin
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Pastry brush
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- 1 pound Bridgford Ready-Dough (thaw according to package)
- ¼ cup butter, melted and cooled
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup confectioners sugar
- 3 tablespoons butter, room temperature
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (can substitute with vanilla extract)
Instructions
- Let dough thaw, following instructions on bag. On a silicone mat, sheet of parchment paper, or floured surface, roll out the dough into the shape of a rectangle, about 18″ x 12.” The dough will be approximately 1/2 inch thick.
- Using a pastry brush, spread the melted butter on the dough, leaving a 1/2″ margin around the edges. Mix the granulated sugar and spices in a small bowl with a fork. Sprinkle evenly over the butter. If needed, use the back of a spoon or spatula to level out the sugar mixture.
- Roll up the dough, length-wise, into a tight log. Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut the dough length-wise in half. Lay the halves cut side up. Pinch the tops of the loaves together at one end and then twist them together, ensuring the cut, layered side faces up. This technique creates the beautiful layered appearance of the twist. Shape the twisted dough into a round wreath and carefully place it on a large parchment paper-lined cookie sheet.
- Spray the top of the bread twist with cooking spray and lightly cover with plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 45 minutes. It should look noticeably puffy but not quite doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C). Brush the risen bread twist with the beaten egg wash. When the oven is ready, bake the bread twist for 20 minutes or until it’s golden brown and the internal temperature in the middle reaches 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93°C).
- Let the baked bread twist cool for at least 30 minutes on a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze: Mix together the confectioners sugar, room temperature butter, and extract (almond or vanilla) until completely smooth. Using a large spoon, artfully drizzle the prepared glaze over the cooled bread twist. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Cinnamon Bread Twist: Omit pumpkin spice and use 2 teaspoons of cinnamon in its place.
- Pesto Cheese Bread Twist: Make a savory bread braid by omitting sugar, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon. Instead, spread on a layer of pesto, sprinkle with shredded Mozzarella cheese and chopped sun-dried tomatoes (if desired). Continue with the recipe as directed.
- Garlic Bread Twist: Omit sugar, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon. Instead, spread on a layer of garlic butter (softened butter + garlic powder), sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley (if desired).
- Glaze Options: Omit the glaze entirely and serve the bread twist plain, or simply dusted with confectioners sugar for a lighter touch.
Storing Instructions:
- Leftover bread twist can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warm.
- Alternatively, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 2 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat as directed above.