The Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is a festive and tasty holiday appetizer that brings together tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and flaky crescent roll dough into one easy-to-share ring. It’s a simple way to pack all those classic holiday flavors into a bite-sized treat that looks as fun as it tastes.
I love making this because it’s kind of like a mini holiday sandwich that’s perfect for parties or family gatherings. What’s great is how the warm, buttery crescent dough wraps around the turkey and cranberry filling, making it a cozy bite that everyone can enjoy without any fuss. I always sneak a little extra cranberry sauce inside because I just can’t get enough of that sweet and tart combo!
My favorite way to serve this is right off the baking sheet, still warm and ready to pull apart easily. It’s a great addition to any holiday spread or even a casual get-together where you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that gets everyone talking about how clever and delicious it is—making it a fun and festive start to any holiday meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough: This dough gives the ring its flaky and golden crust. You can substitute with puff pastry for an even flakier texture or biscuit dough for a softer bite.
Cooked Turkey: Using leftover roast turkey or deli turkey works well here. If you prefer, chicken breast can be a nice alternative.
Cranberry Sauce: Whole berry sauce adds a nice texture. If you don’t have cranberry sauce, try lingonberry jam or a mix of chopped fresh cranberries and orange marmalade.
Cream Cheese: It adds moisture and richness. You can swap for goat cheese for a tangier flavor or omit it for a lighter option.
Herbs (Rosemary & Thyme): Fresh herbs brighten the dish. If unavailable, dried herbs will work—just use about one-third the amount and sprinkle them on top before baking.
How Do You Shape a Perfect Crescent Ring Without It Falling Apart?
Creating the ring shape and keeping it intact is key. Follow these tips:
- After slicing the rolled log, arrange the pieces in a circle with a little space between each slice so they can expand while baking.
- Gently press the edges of each slice just enough to connect them without squishing the filling out.
- Brush the exposed dough with egg wash to help seal and give a nice golden color.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and allow easy transfer from the baking sheet.
- Let the ring cool for a few minutes before serving to help it hold shape when pulling apart.
With these steps, your crescent ring will bake into an impressive, pull-apart appetizer that’s as sturdy as it is delicious!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for arranging the crescent ring and catching any drips.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – stops the dough from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Sharp knife – to slice the rolled dough log neatly into even pieces.
- Pastry brush – helps you spread the egg wash evenly for a golden crust.
- Mixing bowl – for softening cream cheese or mixing herbs if needed.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked chicken or ham instead of turkey for different but tasty protein options.
- Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese inside for a gooey, melty surprise.
- Mix chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the cranberry sauce for extra crunch and flavor.
- Include sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a veggie boost that pairs well with the herbs.
How to Make Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crescent Ring:
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 cups cooked turkey breast, sliced thinly
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, then 15-20 minutes to bake. You should also allow a few minutes for cooling before serving. In total, plan for around 35-40 minutes from start to finish – perfect for a quick and festive holiday appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare The Baking Surface and Dough:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep the crescent ring from sticking. On a clean surface, unroll both cans of crescent dough and press the perforations together to make one large rectangle.
2. Add Fillings:
Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Next, layer the sliced turkey evenly on top of the cream cheese. Sprinkle with the chopped rosemary and thyme, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Shape The Crescent Ring:
Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a log shape. Place the log onto your prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1 to 1.5-inch pieces. Arrange the slices in a circle on the sheet, leaving a little space between each to form a wreath. Gently pinch the slices together so the ring holds its shape.
4. Brush and Bake:
Brush the tops and edges of the dough with the beaten egg to create a golden crust. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra chopped fresh herbs if you like. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the crescent dough turns golden brown and is cooked through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the ring from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Spoon cranberry sauce decoratively over the top or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with rosemary and thyme sprigs for a festive touch. Serve warm, and enjoy pulling apart this tasty holiday appetizer!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure the turkey is fully thawed and drained of any excess moisture before slicing. This helps keep the crescent dough from getting soggy.
Can I Prepare the Ring Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the ring up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the dough flaky and warm.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free spread and use nondairy crescent roll dough if available. The flavors will still be deliciously festive.
