The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the delightful challenge of crafting dishes that bring warmth and joy to our gatherings. Picture this: a golden, flaky crescent ring filled with savory turkey, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and creamy Swiss cheese—all nestled together as a mouthwatering centerpiece on your table. When I first created this Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring, I wanted to transform simple leftovers into something extraordinary.
With just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes in the oven, this recipe is not only beginner-friendly but also an impressive showstopper that your guests will rave about. Perfect for lunches, dinners, or festive appetizers, it embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving, making each bite a celebration of flavor and texture. Whether you’re using leftover turkey or a store-bought rotisserie, this dish is a versatile way to indulge in holiday goodness any time of the year. Let’s dive into making this scrumptious delight together!
Why is the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this beautiful dish without breaking a sweat.
Flavor-packed and festive: The harmony of savory turkey, sweet cranberry, and creamy Swiss cheese creates a taste sensation that’s perfect for any occasion.
Versatile and quick: Ideal for using up leftovers or creating a show-stopping centerpiece, this recipe shines at lunch, dinner, or holiday gatherings.
Impressive presentation: Its golden, flaky exterior invites everyone to dig in, instantly elevating your meal.
Perfect for everyone: Delight both family and friends with this beginner-friendly recipe that is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Ingredients
For the Dough
• Crescent Rolls – Use refrigerated varieties for convenience and a fluffy base.
For the Filling
• Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce – This sweet-tart delight enhances the flavor; homemade sauce works too!
• Mayonnaise – A creamy binder that balances the tartness; Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative.
• Dijon Mustard – It adds a wonderful bite to the filling; yellow mustard can be used for milder flavor.
• Cooked Turkey (shredded) – A hearty, protein-packed ingredient; utilize leftover turkey or store-bought rotisserie for ease.
• Chopped Celery – Introduces a refreshing crunch; diced bell peppers can be a sweet substitute.
• Sliced Almonds – They provide a nutty flavor and texture; pecans or walnuts are great alternatives.
• Shredded Swiss Cheese – Melts beautifully, adding richness; swap with cheddar or mozzarella for variety.
For the Finish
• Egg Wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water) – Ensures a lovely golden finish; omit for a vegan version but the shine will be lost.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s transform them into the delightful Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring!
How to Make Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is essential for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust that will make your dish so tempting!
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Unroll the crescent rolls and separate them into 16 triangles. Arrange them in a circle on a greased baking sheet with the pointed ends facing outward, leaving a small gap in the center for a beautiful ring shape.
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Mix cranberry sauce, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl until smooth. This mixture will become the delectable glue that holds the flavors together.
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Combine shredded turkey, chopped celery, and sliced almonds in another bowl. Gently fold in the cranberry mixture until everything is well coated with flavor.
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Spoon the turkey mixture over the wide ends of the crescent dough triangles, layering it generously to ensure each bite is packed with goodness.
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Sprinkle the filling with shredded Swiss cheese, allowing it to melt gloriously while baking and adding an extra layer of creaminess.
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Fold the pointed ends of each triangle over the filling, tucking them into the center to create that stunning ring appearance. This step is both fun and crucial for keeping all the goodies inside!
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Brush the assembled ring with the egg wash for a glossy, appetizing finish. This will make it look even more enticing once baked.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is puffed and golden brown, and the cheese is irresistibly melted. Your kitchen will fill with heavenly aromas!
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Allow to cool for 5 minutes before slicing into wedges. Serve warm for the best flavor experience, and watch your guests smile with delight!
Optional: Garnish with extra chopped herbs for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Variations
Get ready to take your Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring to delightful new heights with these fun and tasty tweaks!
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Cheese Swap: Substitute Swiss cheese with cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone for a different flavor profile. Each cheese brings its unique character, transforming the dish beautifully.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace turkey with quinoa or chickpeas, and include more crunchy veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. This swap will cater to your vegetarian friends while keeping every bite satisfying!
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Add Heat: For a zesty kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the filling. The heat will complement the sweet-tart cranberry sauce wonderfully.
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Sweet Twist: Swirl in a spoonful of honey or maple syrup with the cranberry sauce for an even sweeter flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements.
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Crispy Topping: Add a layer of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking. This will create a crunchy topping for extra texture.
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Nuts Galore: Experiment with different nuts by swapping sliced almonds for chopped pecans, walnuts, or even spicy roasted chickpeas for a unique crunch.
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Fresh Herbs: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the filling for an aromatic flair. This will elevate the dish and give it a homey feel.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent rolls to create a delightful alternative for those with dietary restrictions. It maintains the dish’s flavor and fun while being inclusive!
Make Ahead Options
These Turkey Cranberry Crescent Rings are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the filling (mixing the cranberry sauce, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, turkey, celery, and almonds) up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. When ready to enjoy, unroll the crescent rolls, spoon the filling over the triangles, sprinkle with Swiss cheese, and bake as directed. This ensures a deliciously fluffy and golden crescent ring with minimal effort on the day of serving, making it an effortless addition to your holiday feasts!
What to Serve with Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?
Elevate your festive gatherings with delicious accompaniments that complement the blend of savory and sweet in each bite.
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Light Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the crescent ring.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, lightly seasoned and roasted, provide a hearty flavor that pairs beautifully with the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a sweet contrast to the savory turkey, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Dipping Sauces: Serve with honey mustard or ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor; it adds zest and excitement to every bite.
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Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass of bubbly complements the dish’s festive vibe while cutting through the richness, making it perfect for celebration.
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Savory Stuffing: Hearty stuffing infused with herbs can create a cozy, holiday-style meal that beautifully complements the delightful flavors of your crescent ring.
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Cheese Board: An assortment of cheeses, nuts, and crackers encourages mingling and adds variety to your table spread, making guests feel right at home.
Tips for the Best Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
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Perfectly Prepped Dough: Make sure to separate your crescent rolls carefully; tearing them can lead to uneven baking and a less-than-perfect ring shape.
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Balanced Filling: Avoid overfilling the triangles with the turkey mixture. Too much filling can cause spillage and mess during baking, ruining the stunning presentation.
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Shiny Finish: Don’t skip the egg wash! It’s essential for achieving that beautiful golden gloss on your Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring, elevating the visual appeal.
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Serve Warm: To fully enjoy the contrast of flavors and textures, serve the crescent ring warm straight from the oven—it’s at its tastiest!
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Check Doneness: Watch closely towards the end of baking; the perfect Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring should be puffed up and golden, indicating a crispy yet flaky texture.
Storage Tips for Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil; it will stay good for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe FAQs
What type of turkey should I use for the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?
Absolutely! You can use leftover turkey from your Thanksgiving feast, or for a quicker option, a store-bought rotisserie turkey works wonderfully too. Just shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces for best results.
How should I store leftovers of the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to preserve its texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through; I recommend the oven for a crispy finish!
Can I freeze the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap the whole ring tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through. This method keeps the flaky texture intact!
How can I ensure my crescent rolls cook evenly?
Very! To achieve even cooking, I recommend separating the crescent rolls gently and checking for doneness at about 20 minutes. Look for a beautifully puffed and golden-brown exterior. If the tops brown too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the insides to fully cook.
Are there any dietary considerations for the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?
Of course! If you need a vegetarian option, omit the turkey and replace it with cooked quinoa or chickpeas along with extra veggies. Additionally, if there are nut allergies, substitute sliced almonds with sunflower seeds or simply omit them. Always check ingredients for any hidden allergens, and feel free to switch dairy components like cheese or mayonnaise with suitable alternatives!
How long does the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring take to prepare?
This delightful dish takes just 15 minutes to prep, followed by 20-25 minutes in the oven, making it perfect for busy holiday gatherings or any cooking occasion. Scrumptious flavors could be yours in less than an hour!
Celebrate with Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring for Festive Feasts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Unroll the crescent rolls and separate them into 16 triangles.
- Mix cranberry sauce, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl until smooth.
- Combine shredded turkey, chopped celery, and sliced almonds in another bowl.
- Spoon the turkey mixture over the wide ends of the crescent dough triangles.
- Sprinkle the filling with shredded Swiss cheese.
- Fold the pointed ends of each triangle over the filling.
- Brush the assembled ring with the egg wash.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes before slicing.