Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe

If you’re looking for a festive, crowd-pleasing appetizer or light meal that combines savory and sweet flavors in the most delightful way, the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender turkey and tangy cranberry sauce, all wrapped in golden, flaky crescent dough that bakes into a stunning ring — it’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This dish brings together comforting textures and a perfect balance of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds at your next gathering or holiday celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring are refreshingly simple, yet each one plays a vital role in creating that luscious blend of flavors and textures. From creamy cheese to zesty Dijon mustard, every component brings its own magic to this dish.

• Two packages refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 oz each): These create the golden, flaky crust that holds everything together beautifully.
• Two cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped: The hearty base of the filling, perfect for using up leftovers.
• Half a cup cranberry sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy kick that brightens the whole ring.
• One cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese: Melts into creamy goodness, binding the filling and adding richness.
• Quarter cup mayonnaise or cream cheese: Brings moisture and a subtle tang to the filling mixture.
• One teaspoon Dijon mustard: Provides a mild bite that elevates the flavor without overpowering it.
• Half a teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle savory note that complements the turkey.
• Half a teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
• Quarter teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a touch of warmth to round out the taste.

How to Make Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your crescent ring bakes evenly and releases easily without sticking. This small step helps keep your cleanup quick and your crescent ring picture-perfect.

Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Dough

Open up those crescent roll packages and carefully unroll the dough. Arrange the triangular pieces in a circular pattern on the lined baking sheet, overlapping them just slightly. Be sure the pointed ends of the triangles face outward to create a wreath-like sunburst design — this not only looks gorgeous but also helps seal the ring together later.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, shredded cheese, mayonnaise or cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s thoroughly mixed and every bite promises a mouthwatering combination of flavors. This filling is the heart of the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring, so don’t rush it!

Step 4: Assemble the Ring

Spoon generous mounds of the filling onto the wide ends of each crescent triangle, arranged in the circular ring. Then, gently fold the pointed ends of the dough over the filling and tuck them underneath the base of the ring to seal it all in. This folding step traps all those tasty ingredients, so each slice of the ring bursts with flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Slide the crescent ring into your preheated oven and allow it to bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye out for that perfect golden-brown color — when it’s achieved, you know your Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is ready to come out and impress!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, let your crescent ring rest for about five minutes. This brief cooling period helps the filling set slightly, making it easier to slice and preventing any oozing mess. Then, slice it up and watch your friends and family rave about both the presentation and taste.

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

Garnishes

To add a festive finishing touch, consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or thyme over the top right after baking. The vibrant green not only adds color contrast but also freshens the palate between bites. A small dollop of extra cranberry sauce on the side invites even more sweet tartness.

Side Dishes

This ring pairs beautifully with simple side salads like mixed greens with a light vinaigrette or a crunchy coleslaw. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes make fantastic companions that complement the savory-sweet profile of the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this crescent ring on a rustic wooden board for a cozy feel or a sleek white platter for an elegant touch. You can even create mini versions by making smaller rings for individual servings — perfect for parties! Adding seasonal decorations like cranberries or sprigs of rosemary around the plate amps up the holiday charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring, wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to three days, so you can relish those leftover bites without losing that fresh-baked goodness.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the assembled but unbaked ring by wrapping it well and placing it in the freezer. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. This makes the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring a great make-ahead option for busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftover slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the dough may become soggy instead of flaky and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use leftover turkey for the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?

Absolutely! Leftover turkey works wonderfully in this recipe, giving new life to your holiday meal and making the filling flavorful and hearty.

What cheese works best in this crescent ring?

Mozzarella and Swiss are both excellent choices because they melt smoothly and add gentle creaminess without overpowering the cranberry and turkey flavors.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace turkey with a plant-based protein or roasted vegetables, and you’ll have a delightful vegetarian version of the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Definitely. You can mix the filling a day ahead and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble the crescent ring. This cuts down on your prep time when baking day arrives.

How do I prevent the crescent dough from burning?

If you notice the dough browning too quickly, loosely tent the ring with aluminum foil about halfway through baking to protect it while the filling cooks fully.

Final Thoughts

Cooking the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is like wrapping up a little magic that combines simple ingredients into something festive, comforting, and truly show-stopping. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner, a holiday party, or anytime you want a guaranteed hit, this recipe brings warmth and joy to the table. So go ahead and give it a try — I promise you’ll love sharing this delightful ring as much as you love eating it!

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