If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly balances festive flavors and effortless elegance, our Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe is about to become your new holiday obsession. This stunning ring combines tender shredded turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese all wrapped in flaky, golden crescent dough. It’s a delightful way to enjoy classic Thanksgiving ingredients with a fun, shareable twist that’s sure to wow your family and friends. Whether as a centerpiece appetizer or a comforting main, this recipe brings everything you love on Thanksgiving to one beautiful, biteable ring.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a key role, from the flaky crescent dough creating that irresistible crust, to the savory turkey and the sweet-tart crunch of cranberry sauce. Together, they build layers of texture and flavor that make every bite unforgettable.
- 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough: Provides a flaky, buttery crust that bakes golden and crisp.
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded: Tender, savory meat that’s the star protein of the dish.
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce: Adds a sweet and tart contrast to balance the savory flavors.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Creates a rich and creamy base for a smooth texture.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds moisture and helps marry all the flavors together.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle tangy kick to brighten the whole ring.
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully for a mild, nutty flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and spice.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Gives a fresh, vibrant finish perfect for garnish.
How to Make Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s perfectly hot by the time you assemble your ring. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this prevents sticking and helps the crust bake evenly and beautifully browned.
Step 2: Blend the Creamy Mixture
In a small bowl, whip together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until you get a smooth, luscious spread. This mixture is the creamy glue that holds the flavors together and adds a tangy depth that makes this recipe stand out.
Step 3: Shape the Crescent Dough Ring
Unroll your crescent dough and arrange the triangles in a circular pattern on your prepared baking sheet. Position the wide ends overlapping in the center and the points facing outward to form a sun-like ring—a fun and eye-catching shape that makes this dish feel extra special.
Step 4: Spread the Cream Cheese Layer
Use a spatula or knife to spread the cream cheese mixture generously over the wide part of each crescent triangle. This layer acts as a flavorful barrier, ensuring each bite stays moist and creamy while preventing the dough from getting soggy.
Step 5: Add the Thanksgiving Fillings
Scatter your shredded turkey evenly over the cream cheese base, then dot the cranberry sauce all over. Finally, sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese on top. This layering delivers a perfect harmony of savory, sweet, and gooey cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Fold the Dough to Seal in the Filling
Fold the pointed ends of the dough over the filling and tuck them carefully under the wide end triangles, sealing your ingredients into a beautiful crescent ring. This technique locks in the filling, creating delicious pockets of flavor inside the golden crust.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Place your ring in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching as the dough puffs up and turns a gorgeous golden brown. This final step crisps the crust and melts the cheese inside, making the whole dish smell like homemade comfort at its best.
Step 8: Cool and Garnish
Once baked, let the ring cool for a few minutes to set the filling. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top if you like, adding a splash of bright green color and fresh flavor. Now it’s ready to slice, serve, and enjoy!
How to Serve Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it offers a light herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the cheesy, creamy filling. You could also consider a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a scattering of chopped chives to add extra flair and flavor.
Side Dishes
This crescent ring pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or a simple bowl of creamy soup. Think fresh and light sides that balance the hearty, rich centerpiece and create a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the ring whole for dramatic effect, letting everyone admire its golden glory before slicing. For a festive touch, arrange seasonal fruits like sliced apples or oranges around the ring, or sprinkle edible flowers or microgreens for a pop of color that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover crescent ring tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy those delicious leftovers without feeling rushed.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled but unbaked crescent ring by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to one month. When ready, bake from frozen but add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it cooks through.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that can make the crust soggy instead of flaky.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover turkey, turning it into a delicious new meal that highlights the flavors of Thanksgiving in a fun format.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the turkey with roasted vegetables or a plant-based protein, and use a vegetarian-friendly cheese to keep the ring just as flavorful.
Can I prepare this crescent ring in advance?
You can assemble the ring a few hours ahead of baking and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. This is perfect if you want to prep early and serve fresh and hot later.
What cranberry sauce works best?
Both homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce work wonderfully. Choose one with a texture you prefer—some like it chunky, others smooth—to suit your taste.
Can I add other herbs or spices to the filling?
Certainly! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of smoked paprika can add exciting twists to the flavor profile without overpowering the classic taste you love.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give the Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe a try this holiday season. It’s a warm, inviting dish that brings comforting flavors together in an easy, showstopping presentation. Perfect for sharing with loved ones and making lasting memories around the table. Happy baking and even happier tasting!
Print
Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A festive and delicious Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring featuring tender shredded turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese filling wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough. Perfect as a savory appetizer or main dish to celebrate the holiday season with family and friends.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
Filling
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth and set aside for topping the dough.
- Arrange Crescent Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and arrange the triangles on the baking sheet in a circular ring shape, with the wide ends overlapping in the center and the pointed ends facing outward, creating a sun-like pattern.
- Spread Cream Cheese Layer: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the wide part of each crescent dough triangle to create a flavorful base layer.
- Add Turkey and Cranberry: Distribute the shredded turkey evenly over the cream cheese layer, then spoon cranberry sauce on top. Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese over everything for a melty finishing touch.
- Form the Ring: Carefully fold the pointed ends of each crescent dough triangle over the filling and tuck them underneath the wide ends to close the ring, trapping the filling inside.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown, puffed, and fully cooked through.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the crescent ring from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked leftover turkey with rotisserie chicken if preferred.
- For added flavor, consider incorporating chopped green onions or herbs into the cream cheese mixture.
- This ring is best served warm but can be reheated gently in the oven if needed.
- Handle the dough gently to prevent tearing and ensure the filling stays inside during baking.
- To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute shredded turkey with cooked mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
