Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

This festive Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring transforms holiday leftovers into an impressive centerpiece that's as beautiful as it is delicious. The buttery crescent dough cradles layers of savory turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melty cheese for a crowd-pleasing dish that comes together in minutes but looks like you spent hours in the kitchen.

I first made this ring the day after Thanksgiving when everyone was tired of traditional leftover plates but we still had pounds of turkey to use. The combination of warm, flaky pastry with the turkey and cranberry was such a hit that it's now become our Black Friday tradition.

Ingredients

• 1 tube crescent rolls: foundation for the ring structure with buttery flavor
• 4 oz chive and onion cream cheese: creates a creamy base layer that prevents sogginess
• 1½ Tbsp Dijon mustard: adds tangy depth that balances the sweetness
• 3 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme: brings aromatic earthiness that elevates the dish
• 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese: melts beautifully with nutty flavor
• 1 lb thinly sliced turkey: the star protein. choose thicker slices for more substance
• 1 can whole berry cranberry sauce: provides sweet tart contrast to savory elements
• 2 Tbsp melted butter: ensures golden crispy exterior
• ½ tsp poppy seeds: adds visual appeal and subtle nutty crunch
• ½ tsp granulated garlic: infuses the crust with savory notes
• ¼ tsp salt: enhances all other flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Surface:

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This temperature is ideal for creating that golden flaky exterior while thoroughly cooking the inside. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

Create the Crescent Ring Base:

Arrange the separated crescent triangles in a circle on your prepared sheet. Position the wide ends toward the center, overlapping slightly to form a sun like pattern with a 4 5 inch open circle in the middle. Press the overlapping edges gently to help them seal during baking.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon of fresh herbs until smooth and well incorporated. This creamy layer acts as a barrier between the dough and fillings, preventing sogginess while adding rich flavor.

Layer the Base Ingredients:

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the widest portion of each crescent triangle. Take your time here to ensure even distribution. Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheese over this layer, creating a foundation that will melt and help hold everything together.

Add the Main Fillings:

Arrange turkey slices in an overlapping pattern over the cheese layer. Spread half the cranberry sauce over the turkey, being careful not to overload any section. The balance of turkey to cranberry is crucial for the perfect sweet savory bite. Finish with the remaining cup of cheese.

Fold and Seal:

Gently fold the pointed end of each crescent triangle over the fillings and tuck it underneath the ring to secure. Work your way around the circle, making sure each section is sealed well to prevent fillings from leaking during baking.

Apply the Flavor Glaze:

Mix melted butter with poppy seeds, garlic, and salt in a small bowl until well combined. Use a pastry brush to thoroughly coat the top and visible sides of the dough with this mixture. This adds flavor while ensuring a beautiful golden color.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Place the ring in your preheated oven and bake for 22 24 minutes. Look for a deep golden brown color and fully cooked dough. Allow the ring to rest for a full 5 minutes after removing from the oven to let the fillings set before cutting.

Final Garnish and Serving:

Sprinkle the remaining 1½ teaspoons of fresh herbs over the warm ring for bright color and aroma. Slice between the crescent sections and serve with the reserved cranberry sauce on the side for extra dipping or topping.

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The fresh herbs are truly the unsung heroes of this recipe. I once made it without them when I was in a hurry, and while still good, it lacked that special aromatic quality that makes everyone ask for the recipe. My favorite memory with this dish was watching my father in law who claims to dislike cranberry sauce go back for thirds and then ask for the recipe to make for his golf buddies.

Make Ahead Options

This crescent ring can be fully assembled up to 8 hours before baking. Simply prepare through the folding stage, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. About 30 minutes before baking, remove from the refrigerator, apply the butter mixture, and bake as directed, adding 2 3 minutes to the baking time since you're starting with cold dough. The chilled time actually helps the crescents hold their shape even better during baking.

Perfect Pairings

This versatile ring works beautifully alongside a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a more substantial meal, pair it with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or butternut squash that complement the holiday flavors. If serving as an appetizer at a gathering, offer a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the creamy, savory elements.

Clever Variations

Transform this recipe throughout the year by swapping ingredients while keeping the technique. Try ham and Swiss with stone ground mustard for a deli inspired version. For a Mediterranean twist, use chicken, feta, spinach, and a layer of pesto instead of cranberry sauce. During summer, substitute turkey for grilled chicken and cranberry for peach preserves with a sprinkle of fresh basil. The crescent ring technique works with countless flavor combinations once you master the basic method.

Common Queries

→ Can I use leftover turkey or deli turkey?

Yes, both leftover roasted turkey or thinly sliced deli turkey work well. Choose what’s most convenient for you.

→ Which cheeses are best in this dish?

Gruyere is recommended for its rich flavor, but Swiss or Monterey Jack can be used as alternatives.

→ Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?

You can assemble the ring ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.

→ What herbs pair well with the crescent ring?

Fresh rosemary or thyme enhance the flavors. Adjust quantities to taste or try a mix for a unique touch.

→ How should the ring be served?

Let it cool slightly after baking, then slice and serve with the extra cranberry sauce on the side.