© Original Recipe By Mom’s Meals ©
🎉✨ Savory Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring: The Ultimate Holiday Appetizer! ✨🎉
1. Introduction
Imagine pulling apart a golden, flaky crescent ring filled with tender, seasoned turkey, a tangy burst of cranberry, and melty cheese — all packed into one stunning festive party appetizer. This Savory Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is the epitome of holiday comfort food, perfect for impressing guests or adding a savory twist to your holiday table. Its combination of flavors dances on the palate with every bite, making it an irresistible centerpiece for your celebrations.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- One-Pot Wonder: Uses simple ingredients and easy-to-clean baking sheets.
- Festive & Flavorful: Perfectly combines savory turkey with sweet cranberry for a seasonal flair.
- Impressive Presentation: The visually striking crescent shape makes it a showstopper at any holiday gathering.
3. Ingredient Notes
To achieve the best flavor and texture, choosing high-quality ingredients is essential. Use fresh, lean ground turkey — it yields a juicy and tender filling without excess grease. For the cranberry sauce, opt for a high-quality, naturally sweetened variety or even homemade if you have time. The crescent dough should be cold and flaky, preferably refrigerated for that perfect golden color and crispy exterior. Pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of salt are simple but impactful seasonings that enhance the turkey’s savory profile, while shredded cheese adds gooey richness—cheddar or a blend works beautifully.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
Creating this easy holiday appetizer is a breeze with the right tools. I recommend Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics for quick baking and crisping, ensuring a perfectly flaky crust. A good T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set makes preparing and stirring the filling effortless. For easy assembly, a KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer helps mix the turkey and spices smoothly. These tools help streamline your cooking process and guarantee professional results.
5. How to Make Savory Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring
Prepare the Filling
Begin by cooking ground turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll want it browned and crumbly, with your kitchen filling up with the savory aroma of seasoned meat. Stir in garlic powder, pepper, and a dash of salt, then mix in some cranberry sauce to add a lovely tang. Let everything meld and become aromatic, about 5-7 minutes. This mixture should look moist but not soggy, with the cranberry sauce providing a beautiful ruby hue and zesty flavor.
Assemble the Ring
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the crescent dough and lay the triangles in a large circle, overlapping slightly to form a ring. Spread the turkey-cranberry mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a border at the edges. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the filling for an irresistible gooey finish.
Bake to Perfection
Gently fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching the seams to seal. Brush the top with an egg wash for that glossy, golden appearance. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crescent ring is puffed, golden, and crispy. As it bakes, the savory aroma will fill your kitchen invitingly. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
6. Expert Tips for Success
To ensure your holiday turkey appetizer turns out perfectly, avoid overstuffing the crescent ring. Too much filling can cause it to become soggy or break apart. Use cold ingredients, especially the dough, to keep the layers flaky. For an extra crispy top, briefly broil it for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, but watch closely to prevent burning. Cover any leftover portions tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate within two hours to maintain freshness.
7. Variations & Substitutions
If you’re catering to dietary restrictions or preferences, consider these delicious modifications:
- Vegetarian: Replace turkey with seasoned mushrooms or lentils for a flavorful, meatless version.
- Cheese-Free: Substituting with dairy-free cheese or omitting cheese entirely keeps it suitable for vegans.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for those who love spice.
8. Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy again—about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick reheat, though it may soften the crust.
9. FAQ
Can I prepare this appetizer ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the crescent ring up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and bake just before your event for fresh, crispy delights.
What if I can’t find crescent dough?
You can substitute puff pastry sheets or make your own dough if desired, which can yield even richer layers.
How adaptable is this recipe for different flavors?
Very! Swap out the cranberry for apple compote or add herbs like rosemary or thyme for a new twist each season.
10. Conclusion
This Savory Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring makes an elegant, crowd-pleasing holiday turkey appetizer. Its harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and cheesy flavors creates a memorable appetizer for any festive celebration. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be the star of your holiday spread—bringing warmth, flavor, and a touch of charm to your table. Happy baking!
Print
Savory Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring Easy Holiday Appetizer
A festive and flavorful appetizer featuring turkey, cranberry sauce, cheese, and herbs wrapped in crescent dough, baked until golden and crispy.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 slices
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 oz) crescent roll dough
- 1 lb cooked turkey, shredded
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll crescent dough and arrange in a ring, sealing perforations.
- Spread cranberry sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Top with shredded turkey and cheese, then sprinkle with herbs.
- Fold the edges over to meet in the center, pinching to seal.
- Brush the ring with beaten egg for shine.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked chicken or ham for turkey.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Serve with additional cranberry sauce or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten, Nut-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg