Name: The Best Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring for Your Holiday Table
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cans (8 oz each) crescent roll dough; 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded; ½ cup cranberry sauce; ½ cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional); Fresh herbs for garnish

This Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is your new go-to holiday appetizer! Flaky crescent dough wraps tender turkey, creamy cheese, and sweet-tart cranberry sauce for a delicious festive bite. It’s quick to prepare, easy to bake, and beautiful on any holiday table — ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or cozy winter nights.

Why You’ll Love This Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

It’s simple, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing. Using crescent dough saves time while giving that homemade look. Every bite delivers the perfect mix of buttery crust, juicy turkey, and cranberry sweetness. Plus, it’s flexible — swap in chicken, add herbs, or drizzle with honey for a personal twist.

What You’ll Need

2 cans (8 oz each) crescent roll dough
2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
½ cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Fresh herbs for garnish

Simple, festive ingredients that blend holiday flavors perfectly — buttery dough, savory turkey, and sweet cranberry sauce all in one golden ring.

How to Make Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange crescent triangles in a circle on a parchment-lined sheet.
Mix cream cheese, mustard, and pepper; spread on dough.
Add turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese.
Fold dough points over filling to form a ring.
Bake 20–25 minutes, until golden.
Cool slightly, garnish with herbs, and serve warm.

Quick to assemble, stunning to serve — a holiday hit every time!

You Must Know

This recipe is all about balance and timing. Don’t overload the ring — too much filling can cause it to split open while baking. Spread your layers evenly and keep the dough edges clean for a neat seal. Also, make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing; it spreads smoother and holds everything together better.

If you’re using leftover turkey, chop it finely so it blends nicely with the cranberry and cheese. For make-ahead prep, assemble the ring up to 6 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake right before serving. The result: a fresh, flaky, golden wreath that’s warm and picture-perfect for guests.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Bake on the middle oven rack for even browning — it helps the crescent dough puff evenly without burning the edges. Watch closely near the 20-minute mark; every oven varies, and you want that deep golden crust, not too pale or overdone.

Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep the filling intact. For an extra festive look, brush the baked ring with a touch of melted butter and sprinkle chopped herbs or a few extra cranberries on top. The contrast of golden pastry, red cranberry, and green herbs makes it holiday-table ready in minutes.

Add Your Touch Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

Make this Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring your own! Swap turkey for rotisserie chicken, or try brie or goat cheese for a creamier twist. Add crushed pecans or walnuts for a light crunch, or drizzle with honey for a touch of sweetness.

For extra flavor, mix a bit of orange zest into your cranberry sauce — it gives a bright, citrusy lift. You can even turn the recipe into mini crescent bites for parties or potlucks. Whatever your style, this ring adapts easily to your favorite holiday flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Find more fall-inspired dishes

If you have leftovers (rare, but it happens!), store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10 minutes — it keeps the crust crisp and the filling warm. Avoid microwaving; it softens the pastry.

You can also freeze unbaked rings for up to 1 month — just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. Perfect for stress-free holiday prep when you want something fresh and ready fast.

Chef’s Helpful Tips for Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

See our healthy meal ideas

Use chilled dough: Cold crescent dough is easier to shape and holds its form while baking.
Don’t overfill: A light layer of each ingredient keeps the ring from breaking open.
Add color: Brush the top with a little egg wash or melted butter for that shiny, golden finish.
Presentation matters: Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and a few whole cranberries for a festive wreath look.
Pair it right: Serve with a side of cranberry dipping sauce or a light garden salad to balance the richness.

Small touches make a big difference — this ring looks gourmet but stays easy enough for any home cook.

FAQ for Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Rotisserie or leftover chicken works perfectly.

Try more holiday favorites

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble up to 6 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, wrap tightly before baking and freeze for up to a month. Thaw before baking.

What cheese works best?
Mozzarella melts beautifully, but Swiss, brie, or cream cheese all add great texture.

Can I serve it cold?
It’s best warm, but leftovers taste great chilled or lightly reheated.

Conclusion

This Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is everything a holiday recipe should be — easy, festive, and bursting with flavor. With its buttery crust, creamy filling, and sweet cranberry twist, it’s guaranteed to impress your guests and bring cozy holiday cheer to your table.

Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual get-together, this golden ring makes any gathering feel special. Serve it warm, slice it up, and watch everyone come back for seconds. Simple to make, beautiful to serve — it’s the perfect blend of comfort and celebration in every bite.