Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe

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If you’re searching for a festive, crowd-pleasing appetizer or light meal that perfectly captures the essence of your holiday spread, this Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender shredded turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese nestled inside golden, buttery crescent dough, resulting in a beautiful, shareable ring that bursts with comforting flavor. It’s as fun to eat as it is to make, and will instantly become a beloved tradition at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step toward assembling this flavorful Thanksgiving star. Each element plays a key role: the crescent dough creates the perfect flaky crust, while the turkey and cranberry bring classic holiday flavors together in a delightful mix of savory and sweet.

• 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough: Provides a flaky, buttery base that bakes up beautifully golden and crisp, perfect for wrapping all the fillings.
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded: Tender, lean protein that adds the hearty, savory backbone of the dish.
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce: Adds a sweet-tart zing that complements the turkey perfectly and brightens the flavor profile.
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Creates a luscious, creamy layer to bind the ingredients and add richness.
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Enhances the creamy filling with a smooth texture and subtle tang.
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: Introduces a sharp, spicy note that balances sweetness and adds depth.
• 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully over the turkey for a luscious, slightly nutty flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Elevates all the flavors and ensures a well-rounded taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to keep the dish vibrant and balanced.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A bright, fresh garnish that adds color and a herbal note when sprinkled on top.

How to Make Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready to bake the ring perfectly. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper—this simple step prevents sticking and makes for an easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Spread

In a small bowl, blend the cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. This mixture acts as the flavorful glue that holds the turkey and cranberry sauce together inside the crescent dough.

Step 3: Arrange Crescent Dough in a Ring

Unroll both cans of crescent roll dough and lay the triangles out on the baking sheet in a circular pattern. Position the wide ends overlapping at the center with the pointed tips facing outward, creating a sunburst or flower shape. This technique forms the base ring that will hold all your delicious fillings.

Step 4: Spread the Cream Cheese Layer

Generously spread the cream cheese mixture over the wide ends of each crescent dough triangle. This layer will offer a rich, tangy base for the turkey and cranberry toppings, making every bite smooth and flavorful.

Step 5: Add Turkey, Cranberry Sauce, and Swiss Cheese

Evenly distribute the shredded turkey over the cream cheese spread, then dollop cranberry sauce across the turkey. Finally, sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese on top. These layers work harmoniously to balance savory, sweet, and melted cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Fold and Seal the Crescent Ring

Fold the pointed ends of each crescent triangle over the filling, tucking them underneath the wide ends to create a sealed, circular ring. This keeps the filling in place while baking and gives the finished dish a beautiful, spiral effect.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Place the ring in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crescent dough turns a lovely golden brown. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the whole ring will smell irresistible.

Step 8: Cool and Garnish

Remove from the oven and let the ring cool for a few minutes to set the filling. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and herbal freshness if desired. Then slice and serve warm for the best experience.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is the go-to garnish for this dish, adding a bright green contrast and subtle freshness. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle some finely chopped green onions or even a few fresh cranberries around the plate to echo the cranberry sauce inside.

Side Dishes

This crescent ring pairs wonderfully with crisp fall salads or roasted vegetables to keep the meal balanced and varied. Consider serving it alongside a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted Brussels sprouts for a full, satisfying holiday spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe on a large wooden cutting board or rustic platter to emphasize its shareable, communal nature. You might also place small ramekins of extra cranberry sauce or mustard dipping sauce nearby, inviting guests to personalize each bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making cold or reheated slices just as delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze the fully assembled but unbaked crescent ring by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed for a freshly baked holiday treat anytime.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and the crescent dough regains some crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture flaky and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use leftover turkey from a Thanksgiving dinner?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey. Just be sure your turkey is shredded or chopped finely to fit nicely inside the crescent ring and distribute evenly.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can swap out the turkey for a plant-based protein or simply add more cheese, veggies, and cranberry sauce for a festive vegetarian version that still offers rich flavor.

Can I use homemade crescent roll dough instead of canned?

Definitely! Homemade dough can make this dish even more special with a fresh, flaky crust. Just roll it out and cut triangles of similar size to replicate the ring shape.

What type of cranberry sauce works best?

Both canned and homemade cranberry sauce work well here. Choose your favorite style—smooth or chunky—to suit your texture preference. The sweet and tart flavor is what really shines through.

How do I prevent the crescent dough from getting soggy?

Make sure to spread the cream cheese mixture evenly and avoid overloading with wet ingredients. Baking on parchment paper and properly folding the dough help keep the crust flaky and golden.

Final Thoughts

This Thanksgiving Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe is a true holiday gem that brings friends and family together around the table. It’s effortless to prepare but impressively delicious, combining all the best seasonal flavors inside a flaky, golden ring. Give it a try at your next gathering—you’ll quickly find yourself reaching for seconds and planning to make it every year!

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