Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring is the showstopper your holiday table (or leftover turkey night) has been waiting for—a stunning wreath of flaky crescent dough wrapped around tender turkey, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, gooey cheese, and savory herbs. Every wedge combines all the iconic flavors of Thanksgiving or Christmas in a warm, shareable, pull-apart bake.
It’s as impressive as it is easy: a brilliant shortcut with store-bought dough that delivers homemade taste and “wow” presentation. Whether you’re hosting family brunch, bringing a dish to a potluck, or repurposing holiday leftovers, this crescent ring brings together the essence of festive comfort in every golden slice.
Why You’ll Love It
This crescent ring is a feast for the eyes and palate alike. Baked to a rustic golden brown with glistening cranberry and melty cheese peeking out, its savory-sweet flavors hit all the right holiday notes. The preparation is speedy—the dough is ready-made, the filling can be mixed in a single bowl, and the ring is fun to assemble.
Each bite gives you buttery crispness, creamy cheese, tangy cranberry, and herb-flecked turkey—no one at the table will forget the first delicious mouthful. Best of all, it’s customizable, kid-friendly, and perfect for making ahead and reheating for leftovers.
Key Ingredients
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works too)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss or mozzarella cheese (or cheddar for sharpness)
- 1/3 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons prepared Dijon or whole grain mustard
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for crunch)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage or thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or granules
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley, extra cranberry sauce, toasted nuts
Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Open crescent roll dough and separate into triangles; lay triangles in a circle, points outward, overlapping the wide ends in the middle (forming a sun-like ring).
In a mixing bowl, blend turkey, cream cheese, half the cheese, mustard, herbs, garlic powder, and black pepper until combined; fold in nuts if using. Spoon this filling in a ring around the wide ends of the crescent triangles. Top with dollops of cranberry sauce and sprinkle with remaining shredded cheese.
Gently fold triangle points over the filling and tuck under the ring’s center, covering filling but leaving some gaps for steam. Brush dough with beaten egg for gloss.
Bake 22–28 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Let rest for five minutes before slicing into wedges. Garnish with extra parsley, fresh sage, a sprinkle of nuts, or more cranberry sauce.
Serve hot for best texture, but it’s just as tasty at room temperature.
Technique, Tips & Tricks
Arrange crescent triangles evenly; overlapping ensures a sturdy ring. Don’t overfill—about 2-inch thickness of filling is perfect. Adding cream cheese keeps the filling moist and adds richness; mustard sharpens flavors. For an extra festive finish, scatter powdered Parmesan on the egg wash before baking.
If your dough tears or filling escapes, pinch and patch irregular spots—crescent dough is forgiving! For neat slices, use a serrated bread knife after cooling briefly. Make ahead by assembling up to 12 hours in advance, refrigerating, then baking fresh.
Use leftover turkey (or chicken, ham, roast beef) for maximum practicality. For a cheerful brunch look, slice and fan the ring on a platter with more cranberry, fresh greens, and a bowl of gravy for dunking.
Substitutions and Variations
For a vegetarian version, use sauteed mushrooms, spinach, and roasted squash as filling. Swap cheese styles for different flavor—fontina for creaminess, cheddar for bite, gruyere for depth.
Use chopped apples, pears, or dried cranberries for a sweeter ring. Vary herbs to match your feast—sage for Thanksgiving, rosemary for Christmas.
Make mini rings for party appetizers by dividing crescent dough into smaller rounds and filling individually. To add heat, fold in minced jalapeño or a spoonful of horseradish.
Serving Suggestions
Slice into wedges and serve as the main event for a brunch, as a side for soup (butternut squash or creamy turkey are ideal), or as an appetizer platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
Pair with simple greens—arugula salad, tangy slaw, or fresh fruit. For holiday gatherings, place alongside dressing, gravy, or a sweet potato mash. For leftovers, warm slices in a toaster oven, top with more cranberry sauce, or dip in gravy.
Garnish with parsley, pomegranate seeds, or sliced oranges for extra color at festive tables.
Story & Origins
Crescent rings are an American holiday favorite, inspired by both European stuffed breads and the popularity of refrigerated dough in busy home kitchens. By combining classic holiday flavors (turkey, cranberry, herbs, and cheese) in a pull-apart wreath, cooks create comforting, festive centerpieces that appeal to all ages.
These rings emerged from potluck and community cookbooks, becoming a perennial crowd-pleaser—as easy to bake as it is to devour. Social media, party hosts, and family traditions have since spread variations for every season and leftover stash.
Nutrition Notes
Using lean turkey and light cheese can make this ring more nutritious. Nuts offer protein and healthy fats; herbs add antioxidants. For even more fiber, use whole wheat or reduced-fat crescent dough.
Serve with fresh salads for balance, or limit cheese and cream cheese for lighter slices. Store leftovers refrigerated, reheating gently to maintain flakiness.
Gluten-free and dairy-free versions are possible with specialty dough and cheese alternatives.
Flavors & Pairings
Cranberry, turkey, and buttery dough pair beautifully with citrus salads, roasted root vegetables, or tangy pickles. For drinks, offer sparkling cider, holiday punch, or chilled sauvignon blanc.
Round out the table with mashed potatoes, sauteed greens, or a bowl of gravy/sauce for dipping slices.
Finish with festive desserts like gingerbread cookies, pumpkin bars, or apple crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make it ahead?
Yes—assemble, refrigerate unbaked up to 1 day, then bake fresh. Baked ring reheats well in oven.
Can I freeze it?
Freeze unbaked, tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight, bake for best results.
Is it good for potlucks?
Absolutely—cool slightly, cover and transport; it travels well.
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, rotisserie or roast chicken works perfectly.
What other fillings are good?
Try ham and Swiss, roast beef and horseradish, or veggie-mushroom blends for variety.
How do I serve leftovers?
Rewarm in oven or toast in air fryer; use for sandwiches or snack slices.
Final Thoughts
Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring delivers holiday joy—warm, festive, and packed with flavor in every pull-apart slice. It’s the perfect centerpiece for your next celebratory meal, comfort supper, or creative leftover feast, ensuring every bite is as memorable as the gathering itself.
