There’s something enchanting about the aroma of warm, flaky crescent rolls embracing a savory Thanksgiving-inspired filling. Whenever I find myself with leftover turkey, I can’t help but whip up this cozy Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring. It’s a dish that transforms an ordinary evening into a festive dining experience, all while being incredibly simple to prepare. Flavored with creamy chive and onion cheese, alongside the delightful tang of cranberry sauce, each bite is a celebration of taste and texture.
This recipe not only brings a comforting touch to your table but also impresses guests at gatherings, making it a perfect appetizer or unique main course. Whether you’re using leftover turkey from a holiday feast or deli slices picked up during your busy week, this crescent ring offers versatility and satisfaction that will leave everyone coming back for more. So, let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe and bring a slice of holiday spirit into your kitchen, no matter the season!
Why is Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring so special?
Simplicity at its Finest: This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, utilizing just a few ingredients to create a stunning dish.
Festive Flavor Combo: The rich chive and onion cream cheese paired with tangy cranberry sauce offers a delightful flavor explosion that feels like a holiday celebration in every bite.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Use leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or fresh deli slices—either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works as an appetizer or a unique main course.
Visual Appeal: The golden crescent ring shape not only looks stunning on your table, but it also invites people to dig in and share this mouthwatering experience.
Time-Saving Convenience: Assemble ahead of time and bake when you’re ready, making it an easy choice for entertaining or quick weekday meals.
Give this recipe a try, and see how it transforms your dining experience!
Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Ingredients
• Perfect for a festive appetizer or main dish!
For the Dough
- Crescent Rolls – Provides flaky structure; use 1-2 cans based on serving size.
For the Filling
- Chive and Onion Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and flavor depth; substitute with herbed cream cheese for a twist.
- Thinly Sliced Turkey – The star protein; interchange leftover turkey with deli slices.
- Shredded Gruyere Cheese – Ensures a melty, rich texture; swap for Swiss or Monterey Jack if desired.
- Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce – Delivers the sweet-tart punch; can replace with jellied or homemade sauce.
For the Flavor Boosters
- Dijon Mustard – Introduces a nice tang; use whole grain mustard for a bump in texture.
- Fresh Herbs (Rosemary or Thyme) – Enhances aroma; opt for other herbs like chives if needed.
- Garlic Powder – Adds a savory kick; feel free to omit if you prefer a milder taste.
- Salt – Adjust based on taste to elevate overall flavors.
For the Topping
- Butter – Adds a rich finishing touch; can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
- Poppy Seeds – Provides a delightful crunch; add for extra texture or omit if you prefer.
This Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is not just easy to make but absolutely delicious! Enjoy combining these wholesome ingredients to create a dish that’s sure to impress.
How to Make Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your crescent ring comes out perfectly golden.
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Arrange Crescent Rolls: Open the cans of crescent rolls and separate them. Lay the dough pieces in a circular pattern on the prepared baking sheet, overlapping slightly to form a ring.
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Combine Filling: In a mixing bowl, blend together the chive and onion cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon of rosemary until smooth. Spread this mixture generously over the crescent dough.
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Layer Ingredients: Sprinkle shredded Gruyere cheese over the cream cheese layer, then add the sliced turkey. Drizzle half the cranberry sauce over the turkey, finishing off with the remaining cheese.
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Seal the Ring: Fold the narrow ends of the crescent rolls over the filling, tucking them underneath to create a sealed ring shape. This will hold all those delicious flavors in as they bake.
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Brush and Season: In a small bowl, mix melted butter with poppy seeds, garlic powder, and salt. Brush this mixture over the entire crescent dough for a flavorful finish.
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Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 22-24 minutes, or until the crescent roll is golden brown and flaky. Let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing; garnish with remaining rosemary and serve with extra cranberry sauce.
Optional: Serve warm with a side salad for a delightful meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
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Fridge: Store any leftover Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and maintain its flaky texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the crescent ring tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crispy again.
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Make-Ahead: You can assemble the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring several hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake for optimal freshness.
What to Serve with Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?
The comforting aroma of this delightful dish should be paired with sides that enhance its festive charm and create a warm, satisfying meal.
- Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens and colorful veggies provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the crescent ring, lightening your plate beautifully.
- Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil bring warmth and earthiness that complements the savory filling perfectly.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Indulgent mashed potatoes add a cozy touch that pairs wonderfully with the tangy cranberry sauce and savory turkey flavors.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these delightful bites add an extra layer of comfort, making every meal moment feel like a special occasion.
- Hot Apple Cider: A warm drink infused with cinnamon and spices encapsulates the warmth of the season, perfectly rounding out this festive feast.
- Pumpkin Cheesecake: A slice of sweet, creamy cheesecake balances the savory elements of the crescent ring, delighting dessert lovers and leaving them with smiles.
- Cranberry Sauce: Serve extra cranberry sauce on the side to enhance the flavors, offering a tangy-sweet balance with every bite of the crescent ring.
These pairings will create a harmonious meal that celebrates the joy and flavors of the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring. Enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These Turkey Cranberry Crescent Rings are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can assemble the entire crescent ring up to 24 hours in advance, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. This allows the flavors to mingle beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s just as delicious as if freshly made. When you’re ready to enjoy, preheat your oven and bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated through. This preparation method saves you precious time during busy weeknights or when hosting, letting you focus on making memories rather than panicking in the kitchen!
Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious dish and tailor it to your taste buds!
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Chicken Alternative: Swap turkey for shredded chicken for a delightful twist that’s equally satisfying.
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Ham Swap: Use thinly sliced ham instead of turkey for a savory flavor that pairs beautifully with cranberry.
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Cheese Choices: Replace Gruyere with mozzarella or cheddar; pepper jack adds a nice spicy kick for those who like some heat.
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed spinach or bell peppers into the filling for an extra dose of nutrition and flavor.
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Mustard Variety: Experiment with spicy brown mustard, honey mustard, or even a herbed aioli to elevate the flavor profile.
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Herb Swap: Fresh basil or dill can be used instead of rosemary; they provide a refreshing twist to the dish.
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Cream Cheese Variations: Try using flavored cream cheese, like garlic or jalapeño, to introduce a new layer of taste.
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Low-Carb Style: Use low-carb wraps or crescent dough alternatives for a lighter, keto-friendly version that still delivers on flavor.
Expert Tips for Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
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Proper Overlap: Ensure crescent rolls overlap well to maintain structure; gaps can lead to leaks during baking, ruining the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring.
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Choose Fresh Turkey: Use freshly roasted turkey for the best flavor; deli turkey can have excess moisture, resulting in a soggy filling.
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Resting Time: Allow the dish to rest after baking for 5 minutes; this helps set the filling, making slicing easier and more appealing.
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Melted Butter Brush: Don’t skimp on the butter mixture—this adds flavor and promotes a beautifully golden crust.
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Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar; your personal twist can elevate the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring to a new level.
Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe FAQs
What type of turkey should I use?
Absolutely! You can use either leftover turkey from your holiday feast or deli turkey slices. If using deli turkey, opt for a brand that is lower in moisture to prevent a soggy filling.
How should I store the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?
To keep your crescent ring fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s covered well to maintain its flaky texture. If you plan to keep it longer, you can freeze it!
Can I freeze the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?
Yes! Just wrap the cooled crescent ring tightly in plastic wrap, followed by foil, to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To reheat your Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring and keep it crispy, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the ring on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method ensures the crust stays flaky!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Very! You can assemble the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring up to several hours in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When it’s time to bake, simply pop it in the oven—it’s a great time-saver for busy days!
Is this recipe suitable for my dietary restrictions?
If you have specific dietary concerns, the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring can be customized! Use gluten-free crescent rolls to make it gluten-friendly, ensure you check the turkey for allergies, and choose cheeses that fit your needs, such as dairy-free options. Enjoy with peace of mind!
Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring: A Festive Delight to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Open the cans of crescent rolls and separate them. Lay them in a circular pattern on the baking sheet, overlapping slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, blend together the chive and onion cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and rosemary until smooth. Spread over the crescent dough.
- Sprinkle shredded Gruyere cheese, layer the sliced turkey, and drizzle half of the cranberry sauce over the turkey.
- Fold the narrow ends of the crescent rolls over the filling, tucking them underneath to create a sealed ring.
- Mix melted butter with poppy seeds, garlic powder, and salt. Brush this mixture over the crescent dough.
- Bake for 22-24 minutes, until golden brown. Cool for 5 minutes before slicing; garnish with remaining rosemary.