Turkey And Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe

Festive Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe for the Holidays

Crafting a delightful turkey and cranberry crescent ring can turn an ordinary dinner into a memorable feast.

Festive gatherings deserve something special that looks impressive yet comes together with minimal effort.

Layered with savory turkey and sweet cranberry sauce, this ring promises a delectable combination of flavors.

Comfort food meets elegant presentation in this crowd-pleasing dish that sparks conversation around the table.

Buttery crescents wrap around a filling that celebrates classic holiday tastes with a modern twist.

Simple ingredients combine to create a stunning centerpiece that feels both homemade and sophisticated.

You’ll find this recipe so easy and delicious that it might become your new go-to meal for celebrations.

One bite, and everyone will be asking for seconds.

FAQs

  • Can I use another type of cheese instead of Gruyere?

Yes, you can substitute Gruyere with Swiss, provolone, or mild cheddar cheese. Each cheese will give a slightly different flavor profile to the dish.

  • Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ring ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

  • How do I prevent the crescent dough from tearing?

Make sure the dough is at room temperature and handle it gently. If it tears, simply pinch the edges back together. Cold dough is more likely to crack.

  • Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Replace the turkey with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Keep the cream cheese base and cheese for a delicious vegetarian version.

Crescent Ring That Mixes Turkey and Cranberry Into Every Slice

  • Quickly Assemble Delightful Dish: Perfect for busy cooks who want a stunning meal without complex techniques.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Party Pleaser: Combines classic holiday flavors in a crowd-friendly format that looks impressive and tastes amazing.
  • Flavor Explosion in Every Bite: Blends savory turkey, creamy cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and aromatic herbs for a mouthwatering experience that satisfies multiple taste preferences.
  • Effortless Entertaining Option: Requires minimal prep work and looks professionally crafted, making it ideal for gatherings, potlucks, and casual family dinners without stressing the cook.

Turkey & Cranberry Crescent Ring Must-Haves

Main Ingredients:
  • Crescent Dough: Soft and flaky base for the ring.
  • Sliced Turkey, Gruyere Cheese: Protein and savory cheese for rich flavor.
  • Cream Cheese, Dijon Mustard, Cranberry Sauce: Creamy and tangy components to enhance taste.
Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Rosemary, Thyme, Granulated Garlic, Salt: Aromatic herbs and spices for depth of flavor.
Finishing Touches:
  • Melted Butter, Poppy Seeds: Adds golden crust and nutty texture.

Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Baking Instructions

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to 375°F. Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Spread the Dough

Unroll the crescent dough and separate those triangles. Create a beautiful circle on the baking sheet with wide ends overlapping and points stretching outward like sun rays.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Base

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Softened cream cheese
  • Dijon mustard
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme

Generously spread this zesty mixture over the wide ends of the dough.

Step 4: Layer the Delicious Fillings

Sprinkle a blanket of Gruyere cheese over the cream cheese. Lovingly arrange turkey slices, slightly overlapping. Drizzle cranberry sauce across the turkey, then crown with another layer of Gruyere cheese.

Step 5: Shape the Ring

Fold those pointy dough ends over the filling, tucking them under the wide ends to create a beautiful ring. Gently press to seal in all the delicious goodness.

Step 6: Add the Golden Touch

Mix in a small bowl:
  • Melted butter
  • Poppy seeds
  • Granulated garlic
  • Pinch of salt

Brush this magical mixture over the dough to create a gorgeous golden finish. Slide into the oven and bake for 22-24 minutes until it turns a perfect crispy brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let the ring rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining herbs. Slice and serve with extra cranberry sauce on the side. Watch your guests swoon with delight!

Crescent Ring Tips That Balance Turkey and Cranberry

  • Prevent Dough Sticking: Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure easy removal and clean-up of the crescent ring.
  • Achieve Creamy Filling: Soften cream cheese at room temperature for smooth, lump-free mixing with herbs and mustard.
  • Balance Flavors Perfectly: Layer ingredients carefully to distribute turkey, cheese, and cranberry sauce evenly for a harmonious taste in every bite.
  • Master the Ring Shape: Gently tuck and press crescent dough points to create a neat, secure ring that holds the filling during baking.
  • Enhance Golden Crust: Brush melted butter mixture generously over the dough to create a crispy, beautifully browned exterior with extra flavor.

Store Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Properly

  • Store leftover crescent ring in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and maintain freshness.
  • Carefully wrap the entire ring or individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months to preserve flavor and texture.
  • Preheat oven to 325°F. Place leftover slices on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil to prevent burning. Warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy edges return.
  • Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 30-45 seconds. Check temperature and add 15-second intervals if needed, being careful not to overcook and make the dough soggy.

Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Side Matches

  • Pair Perfectly with Crisp White Wine: Select a chardonnay or sauvignon blanc with bright acidity that complements the rich turkey and creamy cheese, cutting through the buttery crescent dough.
  • Create Refreshing Side Salad: Toss mixed greens with citrus vinaigrette and toasted pecans to balance the savory ring, adding lightness and crunch to the hearty main dish.
  • Serve Alongside Tangy Cranberry Spritzer: Mix cranberry juice, sparkling water, and a splash of lime for a zesty beverage that echoes the cranberry sauce and enhances the turkey's flavor profile.
  • Complement with Herb-Roasted Vegetables: Prepare roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots seasoned with rosemary and thyme to mirror the herbs in the crescent ring, creating a harmonious meal experience.

Crescent Ring Turkey Twists

  • Gluten-Free Holiday Ring: Replace crescent dough with gluten-free crescent roll alternative. Use cornstarch or rice flour to ensure proper binding and texture.
  • Low-Carb Protein Wrap: Substitute crescent dough with low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps. Select lean chicken or turkey breast for protein-rich filling.
  • Vegetarian Harvest Ring: Replace turkey with roasted vegetables like butternut squash, mushrooms, and spinach. Use plant-based cream cheese and swap Gruyere for dairy-free cheese alternatives.
  • Mediterranean-Inspired Version: Incorporate feta cheese, replace Dijon mustard with olive tapenade, and add sundried tomatoes and fresh herbs like oregano. Use Mediterranean-style deli meat or roasted eggplant slices.
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Turkey And Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe

Turkey And Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe


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4.7 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Festive gatherings come alive with this spectacular Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring, blending savory roasted turkey and tart cranberry sauce in a golden, flaky pastry. Guests will devour each delicious slice, celebrating holiday flavors that perfectly balance comfort and culinary creativity.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein and Cheese:

  • 1 lb thinly sliced turkey (leftover or deli)
  • 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese (divided)

Bread and Spread:

  • 1 tube crescent rolls
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) chive and onion cream cheese, softened
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:

  • 3 teaspoons fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped (divided)
  • 1 (14 ounces / 397 grams) can whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon poppy seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare a spacious baking surface by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring optimal heat distribution and easy cleanup.
  2. Carefully unfurl the crescent pastry, strategically positioning triangular sections to create a beautiful circular formation with pointed edges radiating outward and wide bases overlapping.
  3. Craft a luxurious base layer by blending softened cream cheese with Dijon mustard and aromatic herbs, spreading this mixture generously across the wide dough sections.
  4. Enhance the flavor profile by generously sprinkling Gruyere cheese over the cream cheese foundation, then artfully layer delicate turkey slices ensuring slight overlap for maximum coverage.
  5. Drizzle cranberry sauce across the turkey, creating a vibrant and tangy dimension to the savory landscape.
  6. Sprinkle additional Gruyere cheese to amplify the richness and complexity of the filling.
  7. Gently fold the pointed dough edges inward, tucking them meticulously beneath the wide base to create a seamless, elegant ring structure.
  8. Craft a delectable butter glaze by combining melted butter with poppy seeds, granulated garlic, and a pinch of salt, then brush this mixture delicately across the dough surface.
  9. Bake in a preheated oven until the pastry transforms into a golden, crispy masterpiece with enticing aromas wafting through the kitchen.
  10. Allow the crescent ring to rest briefly, permitting flavors to meld and settle.
  11. Garnish with remaining herbs, slice into wedges, and serve alongside additional cranberry sauce for a stunning culinary presentation.

Notes

  • Swap Gruyere with cheddar, Swiss, or gouda for different flavor profiles that match personal taste preferences.
  • Use gluten-free crescent roll dough or create a base with almond flour pastry to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Replace turkey with rotisserie chicken, sliced ham, or plant-based protein alternatives for versatile meal choices.
  • Use fresh herbs instead of dried for more vibrant, intense flavors that elevate the overall taste of the crescent ring.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 780 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Marcus Hale

Marcus Hale

Founder & Recipe Storyteller

Expertise

  • Demystifying knife work, sauce emulsification, and pastry basics.
  • Curating seasonal guides that adapt global recipes to local, in-season produce.
  • Crafting blog posts, videos, and social media tips.

Education

Holyoke Community College – HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Hands-on global cuisine training emphasizes sustainable cooking and recipe development under accredited chefs.

Marcus grew up surrounded by maple trees, farm stands, and the smell of Sunday stew simmering on the stove. After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from the HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute, he knew he didn’t want to work in fancy kitchens, he wanted to cook for real people.

At Whip Up Cook Up, Marcus is the guy turning memories into meals. His recipes are fast, full of flavor, and built for home cooks who want big taste without the drama.

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