Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is the perfect way to use that leftover Thanksgiving turkey. My family loves this recipe, and it started as a way to avoid turkey sandwiches for days after the holiday. The combination of savory turkey, tart cranberry sauce, and flaky crescent rolls creates a comforting and delicious meal, and it’s my personal touch on holiday leftovers. The aroma of baking crescent rolls with turkey and cranberry is heavenly. If you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to enjoy your leftover turkey, especially for a cheesy turkey cranberry crescent ring lunch, this recipe is for you. Let’s get cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
Okay, friends, let me tell you why this turkey cranberry crescent ring is about to become your new favorite way to deal with Thanksgiving leftovers. Seriously, you’ll be making it even *without* leftovers, trust me! Here’s the lowdown:
- It’s a flavor explosion! The combination of savory turkey with sweet cranberry sauce is just divine.
- Whip this baby up in under an hour. Perfect for those crazy weeknights when you need something fast and comforting.
- Uses up that leftover turkey, so you’re reducing food waste and saving money. Win-win!
- Super easy to customize. Throw in different cheeses, herbs, or spices to make it your own.
- Perfect as a holiday appetizer, a light lunch, or even a casual dinner. Talk about versatile!
- Kids absolutely adore it! My little ones gobble it up every single time.
- It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy those delicious holiday flavors any time of year.
Ingredients for Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
Alright, let’s gather our goodies for this amazing turkey cranberry crescent ring! This ingredient list is simple, but each one plays a vital role in making our ring absolutely irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 packages (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough: This is your base! It provides that flaky, buttery crust we all love.
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped: Leftover turkey is perfect, just dice it into small pieces.
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce: This adds that signature sweet and tart flavor contrast. Homemade or store-bought works great!
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese: For that creamy, melty goodness. Feel free to swap in cheddar or provolone if you’re feeling adventurous.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or cream cheese: This binds everything together and adds moisture. I usually use mayo, but cream cheese adds a nice tang!
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds a little zing that cuts through the richness.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavors of the turkey.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances all the flavors. Don’t skip it!
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Just a touch of spice to round everything out.
How to Make Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
Okay, here comes the fun part! Making this turkey cranberry crescent ring is so easy, you’ll be a pro in no time. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, delicious ring ready to devour!
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Seriously, don’t skip the parchment paper—it makes clean-up a breeze! Preheating ensures your crescent ring bakes evenly.
- Step 2: Unroll the crescent dough and arrange the triangles in a circular pattern on the baking sheet, slightly overlapping them to form a ring. The pointed ends should face outward, creating that pretty sunburst effect. Trust me, this is the base of your masterpiece!
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey, cranberry sauce, cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until everything is evenly combined. You want that mixture well-combined and smelling absolutely divine!
- Step 4: Spoon the filling onto the wide ends of the crescent dough, forming a circular mound. Then, gently fold the pointed ends of the dough over the filling, tucking them under the base to seal. This is what creates that beautiful ring shape, so take your time and make it look good!
- Step 5: Place your turkey cranberry crescent ring in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when the ring is puffed up, golden brown, and the filling is heated through and melty. Yum!
- Step 6: Let the ring cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. I know it’s tempting to dig right in, but this cooling period allows the filling to set just a little, making it easier to slice.

Pro Tips for the Best Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
Want to take your turkey cranberry crescent ring to the next level? Of course, you do! Here are a few secrets I’ve learned over the years to make this homemade turkey dessert a total showstopper. Trust me, these tips will make all the difference!
- Don’t overfill those crescent rolls! I know it’s tempting to load them up, but too much filling will cause them to burst during baking, and nobody wants that.
- Use good quality cranberry sauce. It makes a HUGE difference in flavor. I prefer homemade, but a good store-bought brand works too!
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses. I love mozzarella and Swiss, but cheddar, provolone, or even a little bit of brie can add a delicious twist to this turkey crescent bake.
What’s the secret to perfect Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?
It’s all about the filling! A good balance of savory and sweet is key. Don’t be afraid to add a little extra Dijon mustard or a pinch of red pepper flakes to really make those flavors pop. Oh, and don’t overfill the crescent rolls!
Can I make Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can totally assemble the ring ahead of time. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s a lifesaver during the busy holiday season! This savory crescent roll recipe is great for planning.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?
The biggest mistake I see people make is not tucking those pointed ends of the crescent dough securely under the base. Make sure they’re nice and snug to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. A little extra effort here goes a long way!
Best Ways to Serve Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
Okay, so you’ve got this gorgeous turkey cranberry crescent ring fresh out of the oven—now what? Here’s how I like to serve this baby up! Slice it into wedges while it’s still warm, and watch everyone’s eyes light up. It’s seriously delicious all on its own, but I often pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal. Think a nice, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the ring. Honestly, this turkey crescent bake is perfect as a holiday appetizer, a quick and easy lunch, or even a casual weeknight dinner. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser no matter how you slice it!
Nutrition Facts for Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a quick rundown of the estimated nutrition per slice of this yummy turkey cranberry crescent ring. Keep in mind, these are just estimates, and they can totally vary depending on the exact ingredients you use. So, here’s what you’re looking at:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 15g
This is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
How to Store and Reheat Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
Okay, so you’ve managed to resist eating the entire turkey cranberry crescent ring in one sitting (I admire your willpower!). Here’s how to store those leftovers so you can enjoy them later. First things first, let that ring cool completely. Then, pop it into an airtight container and stash it in the fridge. It’ll keep nicely for up to 3 days. Now, when you’re ready for round two, you’ve got options! You can zap individual slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or for a crispier crust, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Just a heads-up: I don’t recommend freezing this savory crescent roll recipe, as it can make the dough a little sad and soggy. But trust me, it’s so good, it probably won’t last long enough to need freezing anyway!
Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
Got questions about making the perfect turkey cranberry crescent ring? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common questions I get asked about this recipe, along with my best tips and tricks to help you succeed!
Can I use different types of cheese in the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?
Absolutely! While I love mozzarella and Swiss in my turkey crescent bake, you can totally get creative with the cheese. Cheddar adds a sharp, tangy flavor, provolone is mild and melty, and a blend of Italian cheeses can add a delicious depth of flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Does the type of cheese affect the baking time? Nope! The baking time should stay the same no matter what cheese you use. Just make sure it’s shredded for even melting.
What if I don’t have leftover turkey for the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?
No turkey? No problem! This savory crescent roll recipe is super versatile. You can easily swap in cooked chicken or ham instead. Both work beautifully with the cranberry sauce and cheese.
Can I use deli meat? Definitely! Deli turkey or chicken is a great option in a pinch. Just chop it into small pieces before adding it to the filling.
How do I prevent the crescent dough from getting soggy in the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?
Soggy dough is a bummer, but it’s easily avoidable! The key is to make sure your filling isn’t too wet. Drain off any excess liquid from the cranberry sauce and turkey mixture before assembling the ring.
Can I add a layer of breadcrumbs to absorb moisture? You bet! A thin layer of breadcrumbs sprinkled on the dough before adding the filling can act as a moisture barrier and help prevent sogginess. I sometimes use crushed stuffing mix for extra flavor!
Variations of Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring You Can Try
Okay, so you’ve mastered the classic turkey cranberry crescent ring—now it’s time to get a little wild! Here are a few fun variations to spice things up and cater to different dietary needs. Trust me, these twists on the original are just as delicious!
- Vegan Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring: Swap out the crescent roll dough for a plant-based version (yes, they exist!), use a vegan turkey alternative, and load it up with your favorite vegan cheese. This way, everyone can enjoy this savory crescent roll recipe!
- Gluten-Free Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring: Gluten-free friends, I’ve got you covered! Just use gluten-free crescent roll dough (make sure it’s a good one!), and double-check that all your other ingredients are gluten-free. This homemade turkey dessert can be for everyone!
- Spicy Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring: Feeling a little fiery? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the turkey filling for a spicy kick. It’s the perfect way to add a little zing to your turkey crescent bake.
- Mediterranean Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring: Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean by adding crumbled feta cheese, chopped olives, and sun-dried tomatoes to the turkey filling. It’s a savory, salty, and utterly delicious twist on the classic!
Devour 1 Incredible Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Enjoy this savory Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring. It is perfect for using leftover turkey.
Ingredients
- 2 packages (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or cream cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the crescent dough and arrange the triangles in a circular pattern on the baking sheet, overlapping slightly to form a ring. The pointed ends should face outward, creating a sunburst effect.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the turkey, cranberry sauce, cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Spoon the filling onto the wide ends of the crescent dough, forming a circular mound. Gently fold the pointed ends of the dough over the filling, tucking them under the base to seal.
- Place the crescent ring in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let the ring cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use different cheeses to change the flavor.
- Add herbs for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg









