Looking for a Holiday Appetizer Recipe? Try This Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring!

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Looking for a Holiday Appetizer Recipe? Try This Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring!

Megan Douglas

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2025-12-18T15:14:29.975Z

This Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is a festive and delicious appetizer that is sure to impress your guests. Perfectly flaky crescent dough wraps around savory turkey and sweet cranberry sauce, creating a delightful blend of flavors.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Flaky and buttery crescent dough paired with savory turkey
  • A perfect balance of sweet and savory with cranberry sauce
  • Easy to make and ideal for holiday gatherings

The Perfect Holiday Appetizer

This Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is an ideal appetizer for any holiday gathering. Its blend of savory turkey and sweet cranberry sauce wrapped in flaky crescent dough makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner party or a casual family get-together, this dish adds a festive touch to your table. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen.

The beautiful presentation of this crescent ring is sure to impress your friends and family. When baked to a golden perfection, it not only looks appealing but also invites everyone to dig in. This dish is not just about taste; it’s also about creating a delightful experience. Serve it warm, and watch as everyone gathers around to savor each bite.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, if you have leftover roast chicken or ham, feel free to substitute them for turkey. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese or add in your favorite herbs to enhance the flavor even further.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider replacing the turkey with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. This adaptability makes the crescent ring suitable for a variety of diets and preferences, ensuring that everyone at your gathering can enjoy this delicious appetizer.

Storing and Reheating

If you have any leftovers (though we doubt that will happen!), storing your Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is simple. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This way, you can savor the delightful flavors without compromising quality.

For those who love meal prepping, consider making this crescent ring ahead of time. You can prepare the filling and assemble the ring, then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. This makes for a quick and easy solution for unexpected guests or busy holiday evenings, allowing you to serve a delicious appetizer without the last-minute rush.

Ingredients

Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Ingredients

  • 2 cans of crescent roll dough
  • 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all ingredients before you start for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, cream cheese, thyme, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper.

Arrange the Dough

On a baking sheet, unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles. Arrange the triangles in a circular pattern, overlapping them slightly.

Add the Filling

Spread the turkey mixture over the wide ends of the crescent triangles.

Wrap the Dough

Fold the points of the triangles over the filling and tuck them underneath to form a ring.

Brush with Egg Wash

Brush the top of the crescent ring with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

Let cool slightly before slicing and serving warm. Enjoy your festive appetizer!

This dish is best served warm, straight from the oven!

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring experience, consider pairing it with a selection of dips. A tangy mustard or a creamy ranch dressing complements the flavors beautifully. You could also serve it with a side of warm gravy for those who enjoy a more savory note. These accompaniments not only enhance the dish but also provide variety for your guests to enjoy.

For beverages, a light white wine or sparkling cider can be a delightful match. The crispness of these drinks balances the richness of the crescent dough and the filling, making for a well-rounded appetizer experience.

Fun Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chopped nuts or dried fruits to the filling for added texture and flavor. Walnuts or pecans would provide a nice crunch, while dried cranberries or apricots can amplify the sweetness. These variations not only bring a new twist to the classic recipe but also make it more exciting for your guests.

Another fun idea is to turn this recipe into mini crescent bites. Simply cut the triangles smaller and fill them with the turkey mixture for bite-sized treats. These are perfect for parties and allow guests to enjoy them without the need for utensils.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the ring a few hours in advance. Just bake before serving.

→ What can I substitute for turkey?

You can use shredded chicken or even a vegetarian option like mushrooms or spinach.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled crescent ring before baking. Just bake it directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Looking for a Holiday Appetizer Recipe? Try This Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring!

Looking for a Holiday Appetizer Recipe? Try This Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring!

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Megan Douglas

Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Ingredients

  1. 2 cans of crescent roll dough
  2. 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
  3. 1 cup cranberry sauce
  4. 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  5. 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  6. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  7. 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  8. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 02

In a bowl, mix together the shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, cream cheese, thyme, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 03

On a baking sheet, unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles. Arrange the triangles in a circular pattern, overlapping them slightly.

Step 04

Spread the turkey mixture over the wide ends of the crescent triangles.

Step 05

Fold the points of the triangles over the filling and tuck them underneath to form a ring.

Step 06

Brush the top of the crescent ring with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 07

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 08

Let cool slightly before slicing and serving warm. Enjoy your festive appetizer!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 290 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 10g