Chef Mitchell - Professional Chef
👨‍🍳 Professional Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary Institute Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"Growing up, holiday dinners were filled with the mouthwatering aroma of turkey and cranberry. This crescent ring was inspired by my childhood memories and aims to capture that festive spirit while being easy to prepare. It’s become a staple in my home, perfect for adding a creative touch to family gatherings."

Chef Mitchell has extensive experience in the culinary field, specializing in modern twists on traditional dishes. With a background from the Culinary Institute, he has mastered the art of flavor combinations, ensuring every dish is delicious.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
A golden-baked Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring surrounded by fresh herbs.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

The Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring is not just visually appealing; it combines savory turkey and sweet cranberry in a unique format that’s easy to serve. The flaky crescent dough envelops the filling, allowing for an explosion of flavors in every bite. It’s a dish that offers comfort and nostalgia.

This recipe is versatile, as you can use leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts. By adjusting the spice levels and cheese types, you can customize it to suit your family’s palate.

💡 Professional Tip

For an added touch, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruits to the filling for extra texture and flavor. Always taste your filling before sealing the dough to adjust seasoning as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the filling and shape the crescent ring a few hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you are ready to bake. Just allow some time for the dough to come to room temperature before baking.

Absolutely! You can use shredded chicken or even a vegetarian option like mushrooms or lentils for a meat-free version. Just ensure that your substitute is cooked and seasoned appropriately.

This dish is baked in the oven, which allows the crescent dough to puff up and become golden and flaky. Baking helps meld the flavors of the filling, creating a delicious combination.

You will need a baking sheet, parchment paper, a large mixing bowl, and a pastry brush for applying the egg wash. A pizza cutter is also helpful for cutting the dough into triangles.

The crescent ring is done when it turns golden brown and the filling is hot. You can check the internal temperature with a thermometer; it should reach at least 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the dough should feel firm to the touch.

This crescent ring pairs well with a side salad or roasted vegetables. You could also serve it with a warm dip like ranch or a sweet and tangy mustard sauce for extra flavor.

Definitely! You can add different herbs, spices, or cheeses to the filling. Feel free to experiment with ingredients like spinach, feta cheese, or even jalapeños for a kick.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Dough not rising

Problem: If the crescent dough doesn't rise properly, it may be due to expired dough or incorrect oven temperature.

Solution: Always check the expiration date on the dough package and preheat your oven adequately before baking. An oven thermometer can help ensure the temperature is accurate.

✅

Filling leaking out

Problem: You might find the filling leaking out during baking.

Solution: Ensure the dough is sealed tightly around the filling, and avoid overfilling to prevent leaks. A slight gap is okay, but it should hold most of the filling in place.

✅

Dough too dry

Problem: If the dough comes out dry, it may have been overbaked.

Prevention: Watch the baking time closely. If it starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil until the filling is hot and the dough is fully cooked.

✅

Filling undercooked

Problem: If the filling is cold or not fully cooked, the dough may cook faster than the filling.

Recovery: To prevent this, ensure the filling is heated through before filling the dough. You can microwave the filling for a minute or so if needed.

✅

Bland flavor

Problem: Sometimes the dish might taste bland.

Prevention: Always taste your filling before sealing the dough. Adjust salt, pepper, or spices according to preference to enhance flavor.

✅

Flavor Balance Issues

Too Sweet: If it’s too sweet from the cranberry sauce, adding a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice can help balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the dish tastes too salty, serve with a side of unsalted yogurt or sour cream to counteract the saltiness.

Bland: For a bland filling, consider adding more herbs, spices, or even a splash of hot sauce to elevate the taste.

Fresh ingredients for the crescent ring including turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese.

Ingredient Breakdown

Choosing the right ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor in this dish. Fresh turkey and quality cheese can elevate the taste significantly. Using homemade cranberry sauce can also bring a depth of flavor that store-bought versions may lack.

Pay attention to the quality of the crescent dough as it is the base of the dish. Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing and to help the dough rise properly.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Turkey: Use leftover turkey for a more flavorful and tender filling. If using fresh turkey, make sure to season it well before cooking.
  • Crescent Dough: Always check the expiration date on the dough package to ensure it rises correctly while baking. Avoid letting it sit out for too long.
  • Cranberry Sauce: Homemade cranberry sauce offers superior flavor compared to canned options. If using canned, choose whole berry for better texture.
Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring baking in the oven, golden and flaky.

Baking Technique

Baking the crescent ring is a straightforward technique that requires attention to detail. Properly sealing the dough prevents leaks while ensuring that the filling heats evenly. The use of an egg wash not only enhances the appearance but also contributes to a delightful crust.

To achieve the best results, bake on the middle rack of the oven for even heat distribution. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time for a uniform golden color.

Egg Wash for a Glossy Finish

Applying an egg wash before baking gives the crescent ring a beautiful, golden color. Beat the egg well and brush it evenly over the dough for best results.

Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring

Prep 20 min
Cook 25 min
Serves 8 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent dough sheets, roll out to avoid sticking
    Fresh and quality ingredients recommended
  • 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced, use leftovers for convenience
    Fresh and quality ingredients recommended
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce, homemade adds flavor depth
    Fresh and quality ingredients recommended
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, sharp cheddar enhances taste
    Fresh and quality ingredients recommended
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions, add freshness and color
    Fresh and quality ingredients recommended
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder, enhances savory flavor
    Fresh and quality ingredients recommended

For the Filling

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground for better taste
    Measure accurately for best results
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, use extra virgin for best quality
    Measure accurately for best results
  • 1 egg, beaten, for egg wash to achieve golden color
    Measure accurately for best results
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped, adds aromatic touch
    Measure accurately for best results
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust according to taste
    Measure accurately for best results
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional for heat
    Measure accurately for best results

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven

    Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking.

  2. Prepare the Filling

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, black pepper, rosemary, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

  3. Roll Out Crescent Dough

    On a clean surface, unroll the crescent dough sheets. Pinch the seams together to form a single sheet, ensuring there are no gaps.

  4. Shape the Crescent Ring

    Lay the dough in a circle on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a pizza cutter to cut triangles around the outer edge.

  5. Fill the Dough

    Spoon the turkey and cranberry mixture into the center of the dough. Fold the dough triangles over the filling, tucking the tips underneath to create a ring.

  6. Brush with Egg Wash

    Using a pastry brush, apply the beaten egg over the dough surface to achieve a golden finish during baking.

  7. Bake the Crescent Ring

    Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown.

  8. Cool and Serve

    Once baked, remove the ring from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Slice into wedges and serve warm.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage

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

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

Variations

Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients.