If you’re hunting for a spectacular yet easy dish that captures the very essence of the holidays, the Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe is the answer. It’s a beautiful, golden pastry ring packed with tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melty Swiss cheese, all wrapped in buttery crescent dough. Think of it as a festive handheld feast that’s as stunning on the table as it is delicious in every bite. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a holiday newbie, this recipe turns traditional Thanksgiving flavors into a fun, shareable appetizer or main dish that’s bound to wow your friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is your first step toward creating a masterpiece. Each component plays a part in balancing flavors and textures — from the creamy tang of the cheese mixture to the sweet pop of cranberry that highlights the savory turkey perfectly.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough (2 cans): This flaky base crisps up beautifully and forms an eye-catching ring shape.
- Cooked turkey, shredded (2 cups): Leftover Thanksgiving turkey or freshly cooked works great for keeping the filling hearty and flavorful.
- Cranberry sauce (1/2 cup): Adds that iconic sweet-tart holiday zing that pairs so well with turkey.
- Cream cheese, softened (1/2 cup): Provides a luscious, creamy binder that smooths the mix together without overpowering.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Adds moisture and richness for a perfect spreadable texture.
- Dijon mustard (1/4 cup): Brings subtle heat and depth to cut through the richness.
- Shredded Swiss cheese (1/2 cup): Melts beautifully, offering nutty flavor and gooey texture.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and complexity.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (1/4 cup, optional): For a fresh, herbaceous finish and vibrant color.
How to Make Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, or 190 Celsius if you prefer metric. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your crescent ring from sticking and to make clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Spread
In a small bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until silky smooth. This flavorful mixture will be the creamy base that holds all your amazing fillings together.
Step 3: Form the Crescent Ring
Unroll both cans of crescent roll dough and carefully lay out the triangular pieces in a circle on your prepared baking sheet. The wide ends should overlap in the center, while the pointed tips angle outward, creating a radiant sunburst shape — this is the signature look of your Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe!
Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese Layer
Gently spread the cream cheese mixture over the wide, inner edges of the crescent dough. This layer acts like a glue, keeping your turkey and cranberry toppings in place while infusing every bite with tangy indulgence.
Step 5: Build the Filling
Evenly sprinkle the shredded turkey on top of the cream cheese. Follow with dollops of cranberry sauce so each slice bursts with that perfect holiday sweetness. Finally, sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese across the top to add melty, nutty richness that ties it all together.
Step 6: Fold and Seal
Now carefully fold the pointed ends of the crescent dough over the filling toward the center, tucking the tips under the wide edges. This seals the fillings inside the ring and creates those beautiful golden sections when baked.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place your ring in the oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crescent dough is puffed, golden, and fully cooked. Your kitchen will fill with irresistible aromas, signaling the magic happening inside the oven.
Step 8: Cool and Garnish
Remove the ring from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes — this helps all the layers set for cleaner slices. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if you like a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving.
How to Serve Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh parsley or even some finely chopped green onions add a vibrant touch that brightens the look and taste of the ring. A drizzle of honey mustard or a side of extra cranberry sauce can invite even more flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
This crescent ring pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For a more indulgent spread, mashed potatoes or creamy butternut squash soup alongside make an unforgettable feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the ring as small individual slices on a wooden board with plenty of napkins for casual gatherings. Or arrange mini versions in muffin tins for personalized, grab-and-go portions perfect for a party setting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They usually stay tasty for 3 to 4 days, making for delicious next-day lunches or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to prepare the ring ahead of time, you can freeze it before baking by shaping the ring but wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes to restore that fresh-baked crispness and warm the fillings evenly. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it tends to make the dough soggy.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey is perfect here, and it’s a wonderful way to refresh your holiday meal with minimal effort. Just be sure it’s shredded for easy layering.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the turkey with hearty roasted vegetables or plant-based deli slices and keep the rest of the ingredients the same for a delicious vegetarian twist.
What can I substitute if I don’t have crescent roll dough?
Puff pastry dough can be used as a great alternative, offering a slightly different texture but equally delicious flaky results.
Can I prepare the ring entirely ahead of time?
While you can assemble the ring in advance, it’s best to bake it fresh for optimal texture and taste. If needed, refrigerate after assembly and bake within 24 hours.
How spicy is the dish due to the Dijon mustard?
The Dijon mustard adds a gentle tang and mild heat, enhancing the flavor without making the dish spicy. You can adjust the amount to taste if you prefer it milder.
Final Thoughts
You really cannot go wrong with the Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe when you want something that’s both festive and fuss-free. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that wraps beloved holiday flavors in a fun and shareable package. So grab those ingredients, invite your loved ones to help, and create a new tradition around this delightful ring — it’ll quickly become a favorite on your holiday table!
Print
Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring is a festive, savory treat featuring tender shredded turkey paired with sweet cranberry sauce, layered on a creamy Dijon mustard and cream cheese spread inside flaky crescent roll dough, baked to golden perfection. It’s a perfect appetizer or light meal for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Crescent Ring
- 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 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 allow for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended, then set aside.
- Arrange Crescent Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and arrange the triangles in a circular ring on the prepared baking sheet. Place the wide ends overlapping in the center and the pointed ends facing outward to create a sun-like shape.
- Spread Filling Base: Evenly spread the prepared cream cheese mixture over the wide parts of the crescent dough, creating a flavorful base layer for the turkey and toppings.
- Add Turkey and Toppings: Distribute the shredded turkey evenly over the cream cheese layer, followed by dollops of cranberry sauce. Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese over the turkey to add richness and gooey texture when baked.
- Fold Dough Points: Fold the pointed ends of the crescent dough over the filling and tuck them under the wide ends to form a sealed ring, which will encase the filling during baking.
- Bake: Place the assembled crescent ring in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and fully cooked.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- Use leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken as a convenient shortcut.
- Fresh cranberry sauce or canned can be used depending on availability and taste preference.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and Swiss cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- Ensure crescent dough edges are well sealed to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- This dish can be served as an appetizer or a light main course during Thanksgiving or holiday meals.
