Name: Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent rolls (regular triangle-shaped); 2 cups cooked turkey, chopped or shredded; 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied); 1 cup shredded cheese (Mozzarella, Swiss, provolone, or mild cheddar); ½ cup cream cheese, softened; ¼ cup mayonnaise (optional); ½ cup chopped celery (optional); 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (optional); ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Introduction

This savory turkey and cranberry crescent ring is a delightful, festive dish perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Combining tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese wrapped in golden crescent dough, it’s both comforting and impressive. Easy to assemble and fun to share, this ring adds a delicious twist to Thanksgiving leftovers or any day you crave a flavorful snack.

A golden brown puff pastry ring with visible layers of flaky, shiny crust forms the base of the dish. This ring is sliced into sections but remains connected, showing three main layers inside each slice: the bottom flaky pastry, a white creamy cheese layer with thin slices and small chunks, and dollops of bright red jam spread unevenly across the cheese. Small green rosemary sprigs and tiny black pepper specks are scattered on top, adding color contrast and texture. The ring rests on a dark surface with some pastry flakes scattered around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent rolls (regular triangle-shaped dough)

2 cups cooked turkey, chopped or shredded

1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)

1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, Swiss, provolone, or mild cheddar)

½ cup cream cheese, softened

¼ cup mayonnaise (optional)

½ cup chopped celery (optional)

1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey and cranberry sauce, folding gently to coat the turkey evenly.

Step 3: Add the shredded cheese and softened cream cheese (soften in the microwave for 10 seconds if needed). Stir in mayonnaise and chopped celery if using.

Step 4: Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs if desired. Mix thoroughly until creamy but not runny.

Step 5: Open both cans of crescent rolls and separate the dough into individual triangles.

Step 6: Arrange the triangles in a circle on the prepared baking sheet, placing the wide ends toward the center and overlapping slightly to form a continuous ring. Pointed ends should face outward. Press overlaps gently to seal.

Step 7: Spoon the turkey mixture evenly over the wide ends of the dough, leaving 1–2 inches from the outer edge to prevent spilling.

Step 8: Fold each pointed dough end up and over the filling, tucking tips underneath the center to secure the ring. Continue around the ring until all filling is covered and the shape resembles a wreath.

Step 9: Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg to create a glossy, golden finish.

Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until the dough is fully cooked and golden brown. If browning too fast, tent loosely with foil halfway through baking.

Step 11: Let the ring cool for 5 minutes before slicing into wedges. Serve warm with extra cranberry sauce or gravy if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use shredded turkey for a softer texture or chopped turkey for more bite.

Whole berry cranberry sauce adds texture, while jellied cranberry sauce gives a smoother filling.

Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.

Try different cheeses such as gouda or fontina for unique flavor.

Fresh herbs like sage or parsley can be used instead of rosemary or thyme.

FAQs

Can I make this crescent ring ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the ring and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 4 hours before baking. Just brush with egg wash before baking for the best shine and color.

Can I use frozen turkey for this recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure the turkey is fully thawed and well-drained before mixing it with the other ingredients to avoid excess moisture in the filling.