This Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is a delightful dish perfect for any gathering. It features flaky crescent dough wrapped around tasty turkey and sweet cranberry sauce.
It’s like a cozy hug for your stomach! I love serving it warm and watching everyone’s eyes light up. Plus, it’s super easy to make, which means more time for fun with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough: This dough is the key to a flaky texture. You can substitute with puff pastry for a richer flavor, but make sure to follow the baking instructions on the package.
Turkey: Any cooked turkey works well here. If you’re short on turkey, rotisserie chicken is a great substitute! You can also use plant-based turkey for a vegetarian option.
Cranberry Sauce: I love using homemade cranberry sauce for a fresh taste, but canned works just fine too. For a twist, try apple chutney or a different fruit preserve.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. If you want something lighter, consider Greek yogurt. It gives a tangy flavor and is lower in fat.
How Do I Shape the Crescent Ring Perfectly?
Shaping the crescent ring can seem tricky, but it’s easy once you get the hang of it! First, make sure to roll the dough tightly so that the filling doesn’t ooze out.
- After spreading the cheese mixture, layer the turkey and cranberry sauce evenly to avoid uneven cooking.
- When rolling, pinch the seams tightly; this helps the crescent ring hold its shape.
- Cutting small slits before baking allows steam to escape and gives you those pretty golden edges.
These tips will help you achieve a beautiful, mouthwatering crescent ring every time!
Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
Ingredients
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 cups cooked turkey, chopped or shredded
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Additional cranberry sauce for serving
Time Estimate
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 40-45 minutes to have a warm and delicious Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the crescent ring from sticking.
2. Roll Out the Dough
Open both cans of crescent roll dough and unroll them onto a lightly floured surface. Press the perforations together so they form one large rectangle of dough.
3. Make the Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, chopped parsley, thyme (if you’re using it), and black pepper until everything is nicely blended.
4. Assemble the Filling
Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the crescent dough, but be sure to leave about a 1-inch border around the edges. Next, layer the chopped turkey on top, followed by dollops of cranberry sauce distributed evenly over the turkey.
5. Roll It Up
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough up into a log shape. Pinch the edges to seal it well. Then, shape this log into a ring on your prepared baking sheet, tucking the ends underneath to hold the shape.
6. Make Slits in the Ring
With a sharp knife, cut small slits about 1-inch apart all the way around the ring, being careful not to cut all the way through. This allows steam to escape as it bakes.
7. Prepare the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the entire surface of the crescent ring to give it a nice golden finish when baked.
8. Bake the Crescent Ring
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crescent ring is beautifully golden brown and cooked through.
9. Cool and Serve
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly on the baking sheet. Carefully slice between the slits for serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with additional cranberry sauce in the center for dipping.
Enjoy this warm, festive, and delicious Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring as a perfect appetizer or light meal!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey is perfect for this recipe. Just chop or shred it as needed. This is a great way to use up any extra turkey after a holiday meal!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by replacing the turkey with a plant-based protein or additional vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just ensure that any substitutes work well with the cheese and cranberry flavors.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps keep the crescent dough flaky.
Can I Freeze the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked ring! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then follow the baking instructions as usual.