Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring: 5 Crowd-Pleasing Twists

Are you tired of the same old holiday leftovers that end up dried out and uninspiring? I’ve been there too. This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring transforms your leftover turkey into a show-stopping centerpiece that will have everyone reaching for seconds. As the creator behind FoodyDish, I discovered this versatile recipe during a post-Thanksgiving gathering when my family was suffering from “turkey sandwich fatigue.” What began as a creative solution has become our most requested holiday tradition!

In this guide, I’ll share my foolproof approach to creating this beautiful ring, tips for perfect crescent dough handling, and five flavor variations that will keep this recipe fresh all year round. Plus, I’ll walk you through meat selection, ingredient prep, and answer common questions to ensure your crescent ring turns out perfectly every time.

Why This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Works

• Uses readily available pre-made crescent roll dough for foolproof results
• Transforms leftover turkey into an impressive centerpiece in just 30 minutes
• Versatile recipe that works for brunches, lunches, or dinner gatherings
• Perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors in every bite
• Can be prepped ahead and baked when guests arrive

Choosing the Right Turkey for Your Crescent Ring

Best Cuts for This Recipe

For the perfect Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring, you’ll want moist, flavorful turkey meat. Leftover roasted turkey breast works wonderfully, but dark meat (thighs and legs) adds extra juiciness and flavor. I recommend using a mixture of both for the best texture and taste profile.

Buying Tips

If you’re not using leftovers, rotisserie turkey breast from the deli counter makes an excellent substitute. Look for meat that appears moist rather than dry at the edges. For the best flavor, avoid highly processed turkey lunch meat you want chunks of real roasted turkey for this recipe.

Substitutions

No turkey on hand? This crescent ring is equally delicious with:

• Rotisserie chicken (a convenient year-round option)
• Leftover roast beef (pair with horseradish cream instead of cranberry)
• Grilled portobello mushrooms (for a vegetarian version)

Ingredients & Prep for Your Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

Turkey Prep Essentials

Before assembling your Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring, ensure your turkey is properly prepared:

• Dice turkey into ½-inch cubes for even distribution
• If using leftovers, bring meat to room temperature for 15 minutes
• Pat turkey dry with paper towels to prevent soggy dough

Flavorful Additions

• For the filling:
  • 2 cups diced cooked turkey
  • ¾ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Pantry Staples

Don’t forget these essential ingredients:

• 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Turkey Crescent Ring Instructions

Pre-Cooking Turkey Crescent Ring Prep

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced turkey, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Gently fold in cranberry sauce, leaving some swirls visible for a prettier presentation.

Forming the Turkey Crescent Ring

1. Arrange crescent roll triangles in a ring on your baking sheet, with wide ends overlapping in the center and points facing outward (forming a sun-like shape).
2. Spoon turkey mixture evenly over the overlapping portion of the dough.
3. Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese over the filling.
4. Fold the pointed ends of each triangle over the filling, tucking under the center to form a ring.

Baking Your Turkey Crescent Ring

1. Brush the assembled ring with beaten egg for a golden shine.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes until deeply golden brown and dough is completely cooked.
3. Check halfway through baking – if browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

Resting and Serving

1. Allow your Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
3. Slice between crescent roll seams for clean portions.

Pro Tips for Perfect Turkey Crescent Rings

Avoiding Soggy Crescent Rings

• Pat all fillings dry before adding to the dough
• Don’t overload with wet ingredients like cranberry sauce
• Allow hot ingredients to cool completely before assembling
• Bake on the lower rack of your oven for a crispier bottom

Tool Recommendations

• Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy
• A pizza cutter creates clean slices through the baked ring
• Silicone pastry brush applies egg wash evenly
• Serve on a round wooden board for an attractive presentation

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftover Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat individual slices in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes (microwave will make the dough tough)
• Freeze unbaked assembled rings for up to 1 month; thaw overnight before baking

Looking for more holiday inspiration? Check out my collection of festive recipes on Pinterest where I share seasonal favorites and creative twists on classics!

Flavor Variations for Your Turkey Crescent Ring

Mediterranean Turkey Crescent Ring

Transform your Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring with Mediterranean flair by substituting sun-dried tomatoes for cranberry sauce, adding Kalamata olives, crumbled feta instead of Swiss cheese, and fresh oregano for the thyme.

Southwest Turkey Crescent Ring

Give your turkey ring a spicy kick with pepper jack cheese, diced green chiles, black beans, and a touch of taco seasoning. Serve with avocado slices and cilantro on top.

Thanksgiving-in-a-Ring

Create the ultimate holiday leftover solution by adding a layer of mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole to your turkey and cranberry base.

Apple-Brie Turkey Crescent Ring

Substitute thin apple slices for cranberry sauce and creamy brie for the Swiss cheese. Add a drizzle of honey before serving for a sweet-savory masterpiece.

Herb-Roasted Turkey Crescent Ring

For an herb-forward variation, mix the turkey with a blend of fresh rosemary, sage, and thyme. Add caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese for depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Your Turkey Crescent Ring

For a complete meal, pair your Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring with:

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette dressing
• Roasted Brussels sprouts with a balsamic glaze
• Sweet potato soup for a cozy autumn meal
• Cranberry mimosas for a festive brunch option

This versatile centerpiece works beautifully for holiday brunches, game day gatherings, or as an impressive appetizer when cut into smaller pieces.

FAQs About Turkey Crescent Rings

Can I make my Turkey Crescent Ring ahead of time?

You can assemble your Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature for 15 minutes before baking. Add the egg wash just before it goes into the oven.

How do I prevent my crescent ring from getting soggy?

Ensure all ingredients, especially the cranberry sauce, are thick rather than watery. Patting the turkey dry and allowing hot ingredients to cool completely before assembling will help maintain crispness.

Can I use crescent roll sheets instead of triangles?

Yes! Crescent roll sheets work perfectly and save a bit of assembly time. Simply cut them into triangles yourself to create the same sun-shaped pattern.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

You can freeze your assembled unbaked Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring has become my signature post-holiday recipe, transforming leftovers into something truly special. The combination of flaky crescent dough, savory turkey, and sweet-tart cranberry creates an irresistible flavor profile that works for any occasion.

I hope you’ll give this recipe a try at your next gathering! When you do, I’d love to hear which variation was your favorite. Join thousands of home cooks who have made this their go-to entertaining recipe and tag @foodydish on social media with your creations.

Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring: 5 Crowd-Pleasing Twists

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• Author: Ethan Miller
• Total Time: 40 mins
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

A golden, flaky crescent ring stuffed with savory turkey, creamy cheese, and tangy cranberry sauce  the perfect way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers or impress guests with a festive holiday appetizer.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough

2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped

1/2 cup cranberry sauce

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon melted butter

1 teaspoon dried parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Unroll crescent dough and separate into triangles. Arrange them in a circular pattern on the baking sheet with the wide ends overlapping in the center and the points facing outward, forming a ring.

3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

4. Spread the cream cheese mixture along the wide ends of the dough.

5. Layer shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, and shredded cheese evenly over the cream cheese.

6. Fold the pointed ends of the dough over the filling and tuck underneath to form the ring.

7. Brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with parsley.

8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

9. Cool slightly before slicing and serving warm.

Notes

Substitute chicken for turkey if desired.

Add chopped pecans or green onions for extra texture and flavor.

Serve with extra cranberry sauce or a creamy Dijon dipping sauce on the side.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 17g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Savory turkey crescent ring, Thanksgiving leftovers, cranberry turkey appetizer, holiday party ring