Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe

Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe: Holiday Magic

Crafting a delightful turkey and cranberry crescent ring brings pure comfort to your meal.

Festive flavors dance together in this simple yet impressive dish.

Flaky pastry wraps around tender meat and tart cranberries, creating a stunning centerpiece.

Elegant enough for special occasions yet easy to assemble, this recipe promises to wow everyone at the table.

Layers of savory goodness nestle inside golden crescent dough, promising a delectable experience.

Seasonal ingredients combine in a beautiful spiral that looks more complicated than it actually is.

Hungry guests will be drawn to this irresistible ring that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Why Savory Turkey And Cranberry Crescent Ring Is Perfect For Holidays

  • Craft a Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this turkey and cranberry crescent ring transforms simple ingredients into a stunning centerpiece that looks professionally made.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap turkey for leftover chicken, add different herbs, or adjust cheese types to match your taste preferences and pantry ingredients.
  • Master Stress-Free Entertaining: This recipe requires minimal preparation, delivers maximum visual impact, and can be assembled ahead of time, making hosting a breeze for busy home cooks.
  • Embrace Versatile Meal Solution: Suitable for brunches, game day parties, potlucks, or casual family dinners, this dish transitions smoothly between casual and slightly fancy occasions.

What You Need For Savory Turkey And Cranberry Crescent Ring

Main Ingredients:

Bread Base:
  • Crescent Rolls: A soft, flaky pastry dough that creates the foundation of this delicious ring.
Protein:
  • Turkey Slices: Lean and tender meat that provides a hearty protein element to the dish.
Cheese:
  • Shredded Cheese: A melty, flavorful component that adds richness and depth to the recipe.

Flavor Enhancers:

Spreads and Sauces:
  • Cream Cheese, Dijon Mustard: A creamy and tangy mixture that forms a delicious base layer for the filling.
  • Cranberry Sauce: A sweet and tart condiment that complements the savory turkey.
Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Rosemary, Thyme: Aromatic herbs that add a fragrant and earthy flavor to the dish.
  • Poppy Seeds, Granulated Garlic, Salt: Seasonings that provide additional texture and flavor to the crescent ring.

Finishing Touches:

Topping:
  • Melted Butter: A rich, golden coating that helps the crescent ring achieve a beautiful golden-brown color.
Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh Herbs: A bright and fresh topping that adds a final touch of color and flavor.

How To Bake Savory Turkey And Cranberry Crescent Ring

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375F (190C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Arrange the Crescent Canvas

Unroll those crescent rolls and create a beautiful circular design. Position the wide ends toward the center, letting the edges slightly overlap like a delicate flower.

Step 3: Create a Creamy Flavor Base

Whip up a zesty spread by mixing:
  • Softened cream cheese
  • Dijon mustard
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme

Generously spread this mixture across the wide part of the crescent rolls. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese on top.

Step 4: Layer with Savory Goodness

Carefully drape turkey slices over the cheesy base, letting them slightly overlap. Dollop cranberry sauce across the turkey and crown with another layer of cheese.

Step 5: Wrap and Seal the Ring

Gently fold the narrow ends of each crescent piece over the filling. Tuck these ends underneath to create a beautiful, secure ring.

Step 6: Add Golden Finishing Touches

Blend together:
  • Melted butter
  • Poppy seeds
  • Granulated garlic
  • Salt

Brush this magical mixture all over the crescent dough. Slide into the oven and bake for 22-24 minutes until it turns a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 7: Serve with Flair

Let the ring rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired. Slice and serve this show-stopping dish that’s sure to impress!

Helpful Tips For Savory Turkey And Cranberry Crescent Ring

  • Replace turkey with rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy alternative preparation.
  • Swap cream cheese with dairy-free options like cashew cream for lactose-intolerant diets.
  • Use gluten-free crescent roll dough to make the recipe suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Add extra herbs like fresh thyme or rosemary for enhanced aromatic flavor profile.
  • Keep an eye on the golden-brown color during baking to prevent over-browning or burning the edges.

Creative Variations For Savory Turkey And Cranberry Crescent Ring

  • Thanksgiving Leftover Ring: Transform holiday remnants into a delicious crescent ring using leftover roasted turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a quick post-celebration meal.
  • Mediterranean Inspired Version: Replace turkey with grilled chicken, swap cranberry sauce for olive tapenade, add feta cheese, and sprinkle with dried oregano for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
  • Spicy Southwest Spin: Substitute turkey with shredded spicy pulled pork, use pepper jack cheese, add jalapeños, and incorporate salsa instead of cranberry sauce for a zesty southwestern approach.
  • Vegetarian Harvest Ring: Create a plant-based option using roasted seasonal vegetables like butternut squash, caramelized onions, and spinach with goat cheese for a hearty vegetarian alternative.

Pairing Ideas For Savory Turkey And Cranberry Crescent Ring

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a chardonnay or sauvignon blanc to complement the turkey's richness and cut through the creamy cheese, creating a balanced flavor profile.
  • Match with Herbal Salad: Create a light mixed green salad with fresh rosemary, thyme, and a tangy vinaigrette to enhance the dish's savory notes and provide a refreshing contrast.
  • Serve with Cranberry Spritzer: Mix cranberry juice, sparkling water, and a splash of lime for a bright, zesty drink that echoes the cranberry sauce in the crescent ring and cleanses the palate.
  • Recommend Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Prepare herb-roasted sweet potato wedges seasoned with similar herbs used in the recipe, offering a complementary side that adds warmth and depth to the meal.

Proper Storage For Savory Turkey And Cranberry Crescent Ring

  • Store leftover crescent ring in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Cover completely to prevent drying out or absorbing other food odors.
  • Wrap individual portions or entire ring tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 2 weeks. Place in freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
  • Preheat oven to 325F. Remove plastic wrap, cover with foil to prevent over-browning. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Check internal temperature reaches 165F for food safety.
  • Place slice on microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, rotating halfway through. Add slight moisture by placing damp paper towel over slice to prevent dryness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Savory Turkey And Cranberry Crescent Ring

  • Can I use different types of meat instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute turkey with chicken, ham, or roast beef to create your own version of the crescent ring.

  • Is this recipe suitable for holiday gatherings?

Absolutely! This crescent ring is perfect for potlucks, family dinners, and holiday parties because it’s easy to make and looks impressive.

  • How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free crescent roll dough available in many grocery stores, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

  • Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the ring earlier in the day and refrigerate it, then bake just before serving to maintain the crispy texture and fresh flavor.

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Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe

Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe


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4.8 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 37-39 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Festive holiday gatherings sparkle with this delightful Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring, blending tender meat, tart cranberries, and flaky pastry into one irresistible centerpiece. Guests will devour this elegant dish that combines classic flavors in a stunning circular presentation perfect for sharing.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb thinly sliced turkey (leftover or deli turkey)
  • 1 tube crescent rolls
  • 1 (14 oz / 396 g) can whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese

Cheese and Cream Ingredients:

  • 4 ounces (113 g) chive and onion cream cheese, softened
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 3 teaspoons finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme

Seasoning and Topping Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon poppy seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the culinary workspace by heating the oven to 375F (190C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Create a circular foundation using crescent roll dough, positioning the wider sections inward with edges slightly overlapping.
  3. Craft a flavor-enhancing spread by blending cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and rosemary into a smooth mixture, then generously coat the inner dough circle.
  4. Distribute shredded cheese evenly across the creamy base, creating a tantalizing initial layer.
  5. Carefully layer turkey slices over the cheese, ensuring slight overlapping for maximum coverage.
  6. Drizzle cranberry sauce across the turkey, providing a sweet and tangy dimension to the savory base.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining cheese to create a final flavorful barrier.
  8. Fold the narrow dough sections over the filling, tucking and securing them underneath to form a cohesive ring structure.
  9. Prepare a golden glaze by combining melted butter with poppy seeds, granulated garlic, and salt.
  10. Brush the butter mixture generously over the entire dough surface, ensuring complete coverage.
  11. Bake in the preheated oven for 22-24 minutes until the ring achieves a rich, golden-brown color.
  12. Allow the ring to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven to set the ingredients.
  13. Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an aromatic finishing touch before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Swap turkey with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick weeknight version that saves preparation time.
  • Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt to reduce fat content and add a tangy protein boost for health-conscious eaters.
  • Use gluten-free crescent roll dough to make this recipe celiac and gluten-sensitive friendly without compromising taste.
  • Experiment with different cheese blends like smoked gouda or sharp cheddar to create unique flavor profiles that elevate the classic recipe.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 22-24 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 305 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 540 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 21 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Samantha Lee

Samantha Lee

Recipe Developer & Content Creator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipes, Recipe testing and development, Food blogging and digital content creation, Culinary education and workshops​

Education

Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasized plant-based cooking, global cuisines, and recipe testing methodologies.​

Samantha sees cooking like painting, every fresh herb, every juicy tomato, a new splash of color on a canvas.
After graduating from Oregon Culinary Institute, she blended her love of global cuisines and plant-based cooking into recipes that feel fresh, fearless, and full of heart.
Samantha’s kitchen is a place where comfort food gets a modern remix and every meal feels like a little adventure. When she’s not cooking, she’s out exploring farmers’ markets, sketching new recipe ideas, or getting her hands dirty in a community garden.

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