There is something truly magical about sharing a hearty, flavorful centerpiece that brings comfort and festive vibes all at once. The Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe is exactly that—a delightful combination of tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melty Gruyere cheese all wrapped up in buttery crescent rolls. This dish not only dazzles the eyes with its golden, inviting ring shape, but it also brings layers of savory and sweet that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply craving a cozy gathering meal, this recipe is a showstopper that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering ring. Each component plays a vital role in building flavor, texture, and that irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes.
- Crescent rolls: Use pre-made tubes for easy shaping and a flaky, buttery crust every time.
- Chive and onion cream cheese: Softened for spreading, it adds a gentle tang and aromatic lift.
- Dijon mustard: Brings a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
- Fresh rosemary or thyme: Adds a fragrant, herbaceous note, enhancing the turkey’s flavor perfectly.
- Gruyere cheese: Shredded to melt beautifully and offer a rich, nutty layer.
- Thinly sliced turkey: Leftover or deli turkey works great, providing the protein centerpiece.
- Whole berry cranberry sauce: Sweet and tart, it creates a vibrant contrast to the savory elements.
- Butter: Melted to brush on the crust, promoting a golden, glossy finish.
- Poppy seeds: Sprinkled on top for subtle crunch and visual appeal.
- Granulated garlic: Adds savory depth that complements the herbs and cheese.
- Salt: Adjusts flavor and elevates all the other ingredients.
How to Make Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless. This simple step ensures your crescent ring slides off beautifully once baked.
Step 2: Prepare Crescent Rolls
Carefully separate the crescent roll triangles and arrange them in a circle on your prepared baking sheet. Position them so the wide ends point inward and slightly overlap the edges to form a perfect ring base. This arrangement will cradle our delicious fillings perfectly.
Step 3: Prepare Filling
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon of your chosen fresh herb—rosemary or thyme. This creamy spread infuses the base of the crescent ring with bursts of savory, cheesy flavor. Spread it generously over the wide portion of the crescent dough, then sprinkle half of your shredded Gruyere cheese on top to start building those layers of melty goodness.
Step 4: Add Turkey and Cranberry
Layer the turkey slices over the cheese, allowing them to overlap slightly for even coverage. Next, spread half of the whole berry cranberry sauce carefully across the turkey. This adds a lovely pop of color and sweetness that will balance the dish. Finish this layer with the remaining shredded Gruyere cheese for that irresistible cheese pull once baked.
Step 5: Form the Ring
Now comes the fun part—fold each narrow end of the crescent triangles over the filling and tuck them underneath the ring. This seals in all the flavors while creating that iconic circular shape that’s not only pretty but practical for holding everything together during baking.
Step 6: Add Toppings and Bake
Combine melted butter, poppy seeds, granulated garlic, and salt in a small bowl. Brush this mixture generously over the top and sides of the crescent dough. These toppings add texture, flavor, and that golden-brown perfect finish. Bake your ring in the preheated oven for 22-24 minutes, or until it’s beautifully golden and puffed. Let it rest on the pan for 5 minutes after baking to help it set before slicing.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the baked ring with the reserved 1 1/2 teaspoons of fresh rosemary or thyme for a fragrant flourish. Slice and serve with any remaining cranberry sauce on the side, inviting your guests to enjoy every flavorful bite with a touch of extra sweetness at their discretion.
How to Serve Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like rosemary sprigs or thyme leaves make beautiful garnishes that add visual interest and an aromatic boost. A light drizzle of extra cranberry sauce or a dollop of herb-infused sour cream can also elevate presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This crescent ring pairs wonderfully with light, fresh salads—think crisp apple slaw or a peppery arugula salad—to balance its richness. Roasted vegetables or baked sweet potatoes add warmth and heartiness for a full, cozy meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, serve the ring on a large wooden board or colorful platter surrounded by small bowls of extra cranberry sauce, mustard, and even some pickled vegetables. This creates a festive, inviting spread that encourages guests to build their own perfect bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe tightly in foil or airtight containers to keep it fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Its flavors actually mellow and meld beautifully over time.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked ring by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep for up to 2 months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through and the crust revives its flakiness. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep that delightful crescent texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Gruyere is wonderful for its nutty flavor and melting quality, cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or fontina can be used to change the flavor profile without sacrificing creaminess.
Is this recipe suitable for using leftover turkey?
Yes, in fact, leftover turkey is perfect for this recipe. It gives new life to your cooked meat and makes creating a savory meal quick and easy.
Can I prepare the ring ahead of time and bake later?
You can assemble the ring and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent the dough from drying out.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Can I use dried?
Dried herbs work in a pinch, but use them sparingly since their flavor is more concentrated. About one-third the amount of fresh herbs will do.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the turkey with roasted vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers and you have a delicious vegetarian-friendly version.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that feels like a warm embrace with every bite, the Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s easy, impressive, and bursting with harmonious flavors that turn any meal into a special occasion. Trust me, once you make it, it will become one of your favorite comfort foods to share time and again.
Print
Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 24 minutes
- Total Time: 39 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring is a festive, crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners. Layered with creamy chive and onion cream cheese, tangy Dijon mustard, fresh herbs, shredded Gruyere, savory turkey, and sweet cranberry sauce all wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough, this ring bakes to golden perfection and bursts with complementary flavors.
Ingredients
Crescent Ring Base
- 1 tube crescent rolls
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp poppy seeds
- 1/2 tsp granulated garlic
- 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
Filling
- 4 oz chive and onion cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 3 tsp finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme, divided
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese, divided
- 1 lb thinly sliced turkey (leftover or deli turkey)
- 1 (14 oz) can whole berry cranberry sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Crescent Rolls: Separate the crescent rolls and arrange them on the lined baking sheet in a circle, placing the widest parts facing inward and overlapping the edges slightly to form a ring.
- Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon of the chopped rosemary or thyme. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the widest portion of the crescent dough.
- Add Cheese Layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded Gruyere cheese over the cream cheese mixture, creating a savory base for the turkey and cranberry layers.
- Add Turkey and Cranberry: Lay the thinly sliced turkey over the cheese, slightly overlapping each piece. Spread half of the cranberry sauce evenly over the turkey slices, then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Gruyere cheese on top to finish the filling.
- Form the Ring: Carefully lift the narrow ends of each crescent dough piece and fold them over the filling toward the center of the ring, tucking the ends underneath to secure the shape.
- Add Toppings and Bake: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, poppy seeds, granulated garlic, and salt. Brush this mixture over the top and sides of the crescent dough for flavor and a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 22-24 minutes until the ring is puffed and golden brown. Let it rest on the pan for 5 minutes after baking.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the baked crescent ring with the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons of chopped rosemary or thyme for a fresh herbal aroma. Slice the ring and serve warm with the remaining cranberry sauce on the side.
Notes
- Use leftover turkey or deli turkey slices for convenience.
- Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be substituted depending on preference.
- Feel free to swap Gruyere cheese with Swiss or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
- The cranberry sauce can be homemade or store-bought.
- Allow the ring to rest after baking to make slicing easier and prevent filling leakage.
