Perfect Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe for Holiday Feasts

Let me tell you, the aroma of buttery crescent dough, savory turkey, and sweet-tart cranberry sauce baking together is enough to make anyone’s stomach growl. The first time I made this Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring, I was hosting a cozy family get-together on a chilly December evening. One bite and I knew I’d found something magical—the perfect blend of holiday flavors wrapped in a golden, flaky crust. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you pause, smile, and think, “Why didn’t I make this sooner?”

Honestly, this dish has become a holiday tradition in my house. My kids love helping me shape the dough into a ring (and sneaking bites of turkey while I’m not looking). It’s perfect for entertaining because it’s easy to make but looks so impressive on the table. Everyone always asks for the recipe, and let’s just say, there’s rarely a crumb left by the end of the night. It’s like a warm hug wrapped up in buttery pastry. Bookmark this one, because you’ll want to make it again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This crescent ring comes together in under 40 minutes, ideal for busy holiday mornings or last-minute gatherings.
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need fancy ingredients—everything is likely already in your fridge or pantry.
• Perfect for Holiday Feasts: Whether it’s Thanksgiving brunch or a Christmas potluck, this dish shines as a centerpiece.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Adults love the sophisticated flavors, but kids can’t resist the flaky crescent dough.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The savory turkey paired with the tangy cranberry sauce and creamy cheese is pure comfort food.

This isn’t just another holiday appetizer—it’s a standout dish that combines nostalgic flavors with modern simplicity. The buttery crescent dough adds a flaky texture, while the cranberry sauce lends a festive pop of sweetness. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet approachable, perfect for impressing guests without stressing yourself out.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the crescent ring:
• 1 package of refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional, for added crunch)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Optional substitutions:
• Use rotisserie chicken if turkey isn’t available.
• Swap cranberry sauce for apricot preserves for a sweeter twist.
• Use dairy-free cream cheese and mozzarella for a lactose-free version.

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet or pizza stone
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula or spoon for spreading
• Knife or pizza cutter for slicing

If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with butter or cooking spray. A pizza cutter works wonders for clean slices, but a regular knife will do the job just fine too!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, cream cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Mix until well combined.
3. Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles. Arrange the triangles in a circle on the parchment-lined baking sheet, with the pointed ends facing outward and overlapping slightly.
4. Spoon the turkey mixture evenly around the wide ends of the crescent triangles. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the filling if using.
5. Fold the pointed ends of the triangles over the filling, tucking them under the wide ends to form a ring. Don’t worry if it looks a little rustic—it will bake beautifully!
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the ring.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on it around the 20-minute mark to avoid over-browning.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro tip: If the dough starts browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing—it’ll blend much easier.
• Don’t overfill the crescent triangles, or the ring may burst open during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• For extra flavor, brush the crescent dough with melted butter before baking.
• If you’re cooking for a crowd, double the recipe and bake two rings side by side.
• Let the crescent ring cool slightly before slicing—it’ll hold together better and the cheese won’t ooze out too much.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

• Seasonal twist: Swap cranberry sauce for apple chutney during the fall, or use fresh strawberries in the summer for a lighter flavor.
• Dietary modifications: Use gluten-free crescent dough and almond cream cheese for those with dietary restrictions.
• Spicy version: Add a teaspoon of chipotle powder or sliced jalapeños to the turkey mixture for a smoky kick.
• Vegetarian option: Replace turkey with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a veggie-packed alternative.

Personally, I’ve tried adding chopped green onions and a sprinkle of parmesan to the filling—it’s a game-changer!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is best served warm, straight from the oven. Arrange it on a large platter and slice into wedges for easy serving. Pair it with a fresh green salad and a glass of sparkling cider for a complete holiday meal.

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it just as delicious the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick rundown of the nutritional highlights:

• Calories per serving: Approx. 290
• Protein: High, thanks to the turkey and cheese.
• Carbs: Moderate, from the crescent dough.
• Fat: Includes healthy fats from the pecans (if added).

Turkey is a lean protein that helps keep you full, while cranberries are packed with antioxidants. This recipe is a great choice for a balanced holiday indulgence.

Conclusion

This Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is one of those recipes that checks every box—it’s simple, delicious, and perfect for the holidays. Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch or need a quick appetizer for a Christmas party, this dish will wow your guests and keep them coming back for seconds.

What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can tweak the flavors or adapt it to suit dietary needs, but the result is always a showstopper. Try it out, and let me know how you make it your own!

I’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so leave a comment below or share your variation. Happy holidays and happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly as a substitute for turkey in this recipe.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the crescent ring and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 12 hours. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for best results.

What other fillings can I use?

Try ham and Swiss cheese, roast beef and horseradish sauce, or spinach and artichoke dip for creative variations.

How do I prevent the crescent ring from sticking?

Use parchment paper or lightly grease your baking sheet to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.

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