Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe

If you’re looking for a festive, crowd-pleasing appetizer or light meal, this Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s so satisfying how flaky crescent dough cradles layers of tender turkey, creamy chive-onion cheese, tangy Dijon, melty Gruyere, and sweet-tart cranberry sauce. Each bite delivers a warm and cozy flavor combination that’s both elegant and effortless to prepare. Trust me, once you try this, it will become your go-to recipe for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you want to impress with comfort food wrapped in a crescent-shaped hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe is how simple yet thoughtfully chosen the ingredients are. Each one adds its own magic, from the buttery crescent dough giving golden flakiness to the fresh herbs bringing a pop of fragrance. These ingredients combine to balance creamy, savory, and sweet notes perfectly.

• Crescent rolls (1 8 oz tube): The flaky base to hold all the delicious fillings together.
• Chive and onion cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Adds a tangy, savory creaminess that melds beautifully with the mustard.
• Dijon mustard (1 1/2 Tbsp): Provides a subtle zing that brightens the whole flavor profile.
• Fresh rosemary or thyme (3 tsp, divided): A fragrant herbal touch; fresh is best if you can find it.
• Gruyere cheese (2 cups shredded): Melts perfectly for that rich and nutty layer; can substitute Swiss or Monterey Jack if needed.
• Thinly sliced turkey (1 lb): Leftover turkey or deli slices both work wonderfully.
• Whole berry cranberry sauce (1 14 oz can): Sweet and tart, it adds a classic holiday flair.
• Butter (2 Tbsp, melted): Brushed on top to enhance browning and add richness.
• Poppy seeds (1/2 tsp): For a subtle nutty crunch and visual appeal.
• Granulated garlic or garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Adds a mellow garlicky depth.
• Salt (1/4 tsp, adjust to taste): To enhance all the flavors without overpowering.

How to Make Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Surface and Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This ensures your crescent ring won’t stick and the bottom crisps up perfectly. Next, separate the crescent rolls and arrange them in a circle, widest edges pointed inward, overlapping slightly to form a ring about 4 to 5 inches across in the center. This shape is key for capturing all those delicious fillings inside.

Step 2: Mix and Spread the Flavorful Base

In a small bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and one teaspoon of your fresh rosemary or thyme. This mixture adds a punch of creamy tanginess and herbal freshness. Spread this evenly over the widest portion of each crescent roll, creating a flavorful base layer where the cheese will melt perfectly over.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Turkey Layers

Sprinkle half of the shredded Gruyere cheese over the cream cheese mixture, letting it nestle into the curves of the dough. Then layer the thinly sliced turkey on top, overlapping as you go for an even filling. Spread half of the cranberry sauce gently over the turkey to balance savory with sweet, and sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese for a melty, golden topping under the dough ring.

Step 4: Fold and Seal the Crescent Ring

Now comes the fun part: take the narrow ends of the crescent dough and carefully fold them over the filling, tucking and pinching the edges around the inside of your ring. This seals in the delicious layers and shapes the ring into a stunning golden crown once it bakes.

Step 5: Brush, Sprinkle, and Bake

Mix melted butter with poppy seeds, garlic powder, and salt. Brush this fragrant mixture generously over the top and sides of the crescent dough ring. This adds flavor and a gorgeous golden glow with a slight crunch. Bake in your preheated oven for 22 to 24 minutes until your crescent ring is beautifully puffed and golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes so the filling sets and slices smoothly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Before slicing, sprinkle the ring with the remaining fresh rosemary for a burst of color and aroma. Serve warm with the reserved cranberry sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy the perfect bite of flaky dough, melted cheese, savory turkey, and tangy cranberry in every slice.

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even a sprinkle of finely chopped chives brighten up your crescent ring both visually and in flavor. A light dusting of poppy seeds or sesame seeds on top just before baking adds a little extra texture and charm.

Side Dishes

This crescent ring pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or butternut squash. For a true feast, add a warm bowl of butternut soup or creamy mashed potatoes to complete the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe as individual mini rings using crescent dough from two small tubes for a party platter. Or transform leftovers into hearty sandwiches or wraps. You can also cut it into smaller wedges to create charming finger-food options, perfect for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the dough from getting soggy, place it in an airtight container or wrap securely in foil or plastic wrap.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked ring by assembling it as directed, then wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake fresh the next day for best results.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the crescent dough’s flaky texture and avoid sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe?

Absolutely! While Gruyere gives a lovely nutty flavor, Swiss or Monterey Jack cheeses are excellent substitutes that melt well and complement the turkey and cranberry beautifully.

Is it better to use leftover turkey or deli turkey?

Either works wonderfully. Leftover roasted turkey offers a richer flavor, but thinly sliced deli turkey is a convenient shortcut that still tastes delicious in this recipe.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can swap the turkey for sliced roasted vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers, and skip the cranberry sauce or replace it with a vegetarian chutney to keep the spirit of the flavors alive.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried rosemary or thyme can be used instead—just reduce the amount by half since dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor. They’ll still add that lovely herbal touch to the ring.

Can I prepare the turkey cranberry crescent ring ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes! Assemble the ring, cover tightly, and refrigerate for a few hours up to overnight before baking. This makes it a great make-ahead option for busy days or holiday entertaining.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so joyful about sharing a Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe with friends and family. Its cozy, festive flavors wrapped in golden, flaky dough create an irresistible dish that feels special yet remains simple to make. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you’ll soon see why it becomes a beloved tradition at your table too.

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