Apple Butter Twists Recipe – Using Crescent Rolls!

Apple picking is one of the first signs that fall is here- or at least, right around the corner. In our neck of the woods it’s still pretty warm out when the apples are ready, so we load up nice and early to beat the heat and go pick some apples!

We’re only a couple of weeks away from harvest time so I’m gearing up to make some easy recipes with the huge stock of apples we’re sure to bring home. While I love using apples in all kinds of dishes, beverages and sauces, apple desserts are definitely my favorite!

This easy Apple Butter Twists recipe uses store-bought crescent roll dough for a super simple shortcut that can help you bake these fast. You can use homemade apple butter if you’re going apple picking too, or if you’d rather you can just use a jar of it from the store. Either way, these will be delicious!

What is apple butter?

Apple butter is similar to peanut butter in that it’s a spread that glides on like butter, hence the name. It’s made by slow cooking apples with things like brown sugar and spices until the break down into a smooth, thick mixture.

You can often find apple butter at your local grocery store this time of year, and at farmer’s markets as well. It’s also pretty easy to make your own- and it’s a great way to use all those apples you picked!

Can I use homemade apple butter for this recipe? How does that change the recipe steps?

Yes! You can definitely use homemade apple butter if you can’t find any premade varieties near you or you just want to try your hand at making apple butter.

Some things to keep in mind while making this recipe with homemade apple butter are that your homemade apple butter might be thicker than the store-bought variety- which can lead to soggy twists. If your homemade apple butter is pretty thick, just thin it out just a little bit with some water prior to adding it to the twists.

Can’t find apple butter and don’t want to make your own? You can use apple pie filling for a similar recipe- it won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll be delicious and give you all those fall vibes!

Can I substitute the crescent roll dough with puff pastry dough? How?

You can definitely use puff pastry dough in this recipe. The texture will be a little different than the crescent roll dough would be, but it can be just as delicious! You can follow the same directions listed on this recipe if using puff pastry dough- just keep in mind that it’ll likely puff up quite a bit while baking {hence the name} so you’ll want to leave ample space between twists on your baking sheet.​

What can I add into my apple butter filling to give it even more flavor?

If apple butter on it’s own doesn’t quite do it for you, you’ve definitely got some options.

You can add mix-ins like chopped walnuts or pecans, or dried fruit like raisins or chopped apricots. 

You could add some spices, like nutmeg, allspice, ginger, or cinnamon. 

Citrus zest is a great way to perk these up, and maple syrup is a great way to make them even sweeter!

To use any of these, just put the apple butter in a small bowl and add your additional ingredient{s}. Then use the apple mixture as called for in the recipe!

Note that if you’re adding something solid like nuts or dried fruit, you’ll want to chop them up pretty small so that you don’t impact the bake time and so you get a pleasant bite instead of a giant walnut!

Can I add a glaze on top of the apple butter twists?

If you’re looking to add even more sweetness to this recipe, consider a delicious simple vanilla glaze! Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, and vanilla extract. Start with 1 tablespoon of milk and add more if needed to reach your desired glaze consistency. The glaze should be smooth and pourable.
2. Glaze the Twists: Once the Apple Butter Twists are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze over the twists. You can use a spoon or a small piping bag to achieve a neat drizzle.
3. Allow to Set: Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving. This will give it a chance to firm up slightly.

How can I keep them from getting soggy?

When made with care, these Apple Butter Twists shouldn’t get soggy. Here are some tips to help make sure yours turn out just the right consistency every time:

Bake at the right temperature: Make sure to follow the recipe to ensure that the twists bake evenly

Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Leave enough space between the twists for them to expand as they bake. If they’re too crowded, they won’t bake evenly and that can make them soggy.

Use parchment paper: This kitchen tool does double duty- not only does it keep your twists from sticking to the baking sheet, but it also keeps excess moisture from being absorbed by the dough!

Store leftovers properly: If you have leftovers, be sure to store them in an airtight container for up to a day. If you need more time, pop them in the fridge.

Allow to cool completely: After taking them out of the oven, allow to sit on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes but then transfer them to a wire rack and allow to cool at room temperature before storing. {You can definitely eat them while still warm, though!}

Can I make apple butter twists ahead of time?

You can make Apple Butter Twists ahead of time, but with one caveat- I’d highly suggest not actually baking them until you’re ready to serve them. They don’t stay fresh very long after they’re baked so you’re better off storing them as dough and then baking them when you’re ready. Here’s how to do that:

1. Follow the directions on the recipe, stopping at the baking point.
2. Freeze on a baking sheet until solid.
3. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer-friendly storage bag.
4. Thaw in the fridge before you are ready to bake for a few hours or overnight.
5. Continue the recipe where you left off.

What can I serve these with?

These are a great treat on their own and are perfect for a quick snack or a dessert. If you want to add to them, you can add whipped cream or ice cream, or maybe some fresh berries! Also think about toppings like caramel sauce, powdered sugar, maple syrup and more.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover twists?

You can easily reheat these in a variety of ways! Pick the easiest one for you:

Oven: Preheat to 350F and place twists on a baking sheet in a single layer {make sure to leave space between them, just like last time}. Warm in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and become crispy again.

Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, leaving space between the twists. Microwave on low {30-40%} in 15-20 second intervals until they are heated through. Be sure not to overdo it or they’ll get soggy!

Toaster Oven: Preheat toaster oven to 350F. Arrange the twists on the toaster oven rack or on a baking sheet. Reheat for about 5-7 minutes, checking on them occasionally so as not to overbake. Once crispy and heated through, they’re done!

What are some other variations I could make?

Using these same baking steps, you could easily make your own Baked Twists! Try mixing and matching ingredients for your filling to come up with something that’s perfect for you. 

Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Apple Pie Twists: Use apple pie filling
• Apple Cinnamon Twists: Add cinnamon sugar to your filling mix
• Spicy Apple Twists: Melt down some cinnamon candies and mix them in with the apple butter!
• Cream cheese: Make these extra creamy with cream cheese
• Peanut Butter: With or without the apple butter, peanut butter twists would be delicious! Maybe add your favorite jelly!

What Supplies Do You Need to Make Apple Butter Twists?

To make these sweet twists, you’ll need:

{These links are affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission on your purchase at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!}

• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper
• Rolling Pin
• Basting brush
• Mixing Bowls

Step by Step Guide

Ready to bake? Grab the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post and come back here to get started!

Preheat oven to 375 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Unroll the dough sheet and use a rolling pin to roll out the dough until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Brush the apple butter over the entire sheet of crescent roll dough.

Cut the dough into one inch strips- you can use a sharp knife or use a pizza cutter to make it even easier!

To create the twist, fold one strip in half lengthwise over the top of the apple butter.

Bend the folded dough in half again and twist the ends.

Pinch the ends together to secure the twist and transfer it to the lined baking sheet.

Bake the twists for 10-13 minutes, until golden brown.

Combine the cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl.

After removing the twists from the oven, brush with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Enjoy!

Hungry for More?

Want more delicious apple recipes? Try these:

• Easy Caramel Apple Turnovers
• Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake
• Slow Cooker Pumpkin Apple Cider
• Apple Cider Donuts
• Fresh Apple Fritters
• Brown Sugar Cinnamon Crescent Rolls
• Apple Cinnamon Pork Loin
• Easy Mini Apple Pies
• Caramel Apple Pie Crescents
• Apple Pie Bars