Name: Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tube crescent rolls; 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; 2 tbsp butter, melted; 1/2 tsp poppy seeds; 1/2 tsp granulated garlic; 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

I absolutely adore sharing this Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe with you because it brings together some of my all-time favorite flavors in the coziest, most delicious way. Using leftover turkey, creamy cheese, and that sweet-tart burst of cranberry packed inside buttery crescent rolls, this ring is both festive and satisfying, perfect for cozy nights or holiday gatherings. Every time I make this, it feels like wrapping comfort and celebration into one irresistible dish.

Why You'll Love This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe

What makes this Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe truly special for me is the way the flavors meld together. The creamy chive and onion cream cheese mixed with Dijon mustard adds just the right tang, while fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme bring a fragrant earthiness that lifts the whole dish. Then, the shredded Gruyere offers that lovely nuttiness and a gentle meltiness that complements the turkey slices perfectly. And let’s not forget the cranberry sauce—its subtle sweetness cuts through the savory layers, creating an utterly memorable bite every time.

I also appreciate how surprisingly simple this recipe is to prepare. If you have leftover turkey from a holiday meal or just want a clever way to elevate deli turkey on a weeknight, this ring comes together quickly without any fuss. The crescent roll dough forms the perfect base and wraps around the filling effortlessly, making assembly a breeze and cleanup minimal. This is one of those recipes that feels homemade and special without demanding hours in the kitchen.

Serving this dish is always a highlight. It’s ideal for holiday brunches, casual family dinners, or even a festive party appetizer if you slice the ring into smaller pieces. The presentation alone is impressive—it looks like you’ve put in serious work, but the truth is, it’s easier than you think. Every time I bring this out, it draws smiles and gets devoured fast. That’s precisely why I’m so excited to share this Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe with you.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows three stages of making a circular pastry wreath on a baking sheet with a white marbled background. On the left, the raw dough is laid out in a star shape with red berry filling and chunks of light beige pieces spread in a ring near the center, with each dough point folded partly over the filling. In the middle, the dough points are fully folded over the filling creating a ring with visible red filling peeking through evenly spaced cuts around the wreath. On the right, the wreath is golden brown and fully baked, with the red filling visible through the same cuts and the dough puffed and crisp, still on the baking sheet. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward but flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and herbal notes, while the crescent roll dough provides a soft, buttery canvas that holds everything together.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Crescent rolls: The flaky, buttery dough that forms the delicious ring shape and holds all the layers together.
Chive and onion cream cheese: Adds creamy tang and depth, enhancing both the herb and mustard flavors.
Dijon mustard: Brings a mild tangy kick that brightens the rich cheeses and turkey.
Fresh rosemary or thyme: A fragrant herbal touch that elevates every bite with natural aroma.
Gruyere cheese: Its nutty flavor and excellent melting quality intensify the savory filling.
Turkey slices: Whether leftover or deli meat, tender turkey forms the hearty protein base.
Cranberry sauce: The sweet and tart contrast that’s essential for that classic holiday flavor note.
Butter, poppy seeds, granulated garlic, salt: Combined to create a flavorful, golden crust that’s irresistible.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This helps prevent sticking and ensures an even bake.

Step 2: Separate your crescent rolls and arrange them on the parchment paper in a circle, placing the widest portion of each roll on the inside so the edges overlap slightly. This forms the base of your ring and creates room for the filling.

Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the softened chive and onion cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and one teaspoon of your finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme. Once combined, spread this mixture evenly over the widest portion of your crescent rolls—this will be the flavor foundation under the filling.

Step 4: Sprinkle one cup of shredded Gruyere cheese over the cream cheese layer. The cheese will melt beautifully inside, creating gooey pockets of nutty goodness.

Step 5: Lay your turkey slices over the cheese, overlapping each slice slightly to cover the whole ring evenly. Then, spoon half of the whole berry cranberry sauce over the turkey, spreading gently but thoroughly.

Step 6: Top the cranberry with the remaining one cup of shredded Gruyere cheese. This layered assembly creates the perfect sweet-savory balance when baked.

Step 7: Carefully fold the narrow ends of each crescent roll triangle over the filling, tucking them underneath the ring to seal the filling inside.

Step 8: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, poppy seeds, granulated garlic, and salt. Use a pastry brush to coat the top and sides of the crescent dough with this mixture—this will give your ring a gorgeous golden finish and a touch of extra flavor.

Step 9: Bake the ring in your preheated oven for 22 to 24 minutes, or until the crescent dough is a deep golden brown. Once baked, let it rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to allow the filling to settle.

Step 10: Sprinkle the baked ring with the reserved 1 ½ teaspoons of fresh rosemary or thyme for a fresh herbal burst. Slice into wedges and serve with the remaining cranberry sauce on the side for dipping.

Servings and Timing

This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe serves about 6 to 8 people, making it perfect for a small gathering or a family meal. The prep time is roughly 10 minutes since the assembly is quick, with about 22 to 24 minutes of baking time. Including resting time, you’re looking at around 37 minutes total from start to finish, which is fantastic for a flavorful and impressive dish that doesn't keep you stuck in the kitchen.

How to Serve This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a sliced roll with layers inside. The bottom layer is a light yellow soft bread, topped with a layer of seasoned stuffing in greenish-brown color. Above the stuffing, there are chunks of white cooked meat, and on top of that, a bright red layer of sauce or cranberry sauce. The outer layer is golden brown baked dough wrapped around the filling with small slits exposing parts of the inside. Some green herb pieces are sprinkled over the roll and on the white plate. The background is a white marbled surface with parts of more rolls visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I love serving this crescent ring warm, when the cheese is perfectly melted and the herbs are aromatic. It pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables to keep the meal balanced and fresh. For a heartier spread, creamy mashed potatoes or a comforting soup work really well alongside the ring, especially in colder months.

For presentation, I like to garnish the serving platter with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme and place a bowl of extra cranberry sauce right in the center or on the side for that festive pop of color and flavor. Cutting the ring into generous wedges makes it easy to serve at parties or casual dinners, and guests always love the combination of tangy cranberry and savory turkey in every bite.

When it comes to drinks, this dish shines with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp white such as Sauvignon Blanc. For something non-alcoholic, cranberry spritzers or sparkling apple cider add a festive touch that echoes the flavors in the ring perfectly. This recipe works wonderfully for holidays, Sunday dinners, or even weeknight meals when you want something special without fuss.

Variations

I always encourage you to personalize this Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe to fit your tastes or dietary needs. For instance, swapping Gruyere cheese with sharp cheddar or mozzarella gives you a slightly different flavor or melt texture that’s just as delicious. If you like a bit more herbal punch, try adding sage or sage combined with thyme for a subtle twist.

For those needing gluten-free options, you can use gluten-free crescent roll dough available at most grocery stores or opt for a flaky gluten-free puff pastry instead. And if you want a vegetarian version, simply replace the turkey slices with your favorite sautéed mushrooms or a combination of roasted vegetables like butternut squash and spinach—it’s a lovely way to keep the dish hearty and satisfying.

Instead of baking the ring as shown, you might experiment with skillet versions that form smaller, individual crescent pockets cooked on the stovetop—perfect for snacking or lunchboxes. However you choose to tweak it, this recipe is flexible and always rewarding.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers from the Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe, I recommend storing them in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep the dough from drying out. Refrigerate leftovers promptly and consume within 3 to 4 days for the best freshness and flavor. The flavors actually meld nicely overnight, so the next-day taste is often even better.

Freezing

This crescent ring freezes quite well if you want to save some for later. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it fully in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best texture and flavor preservation.

Reheating

To reheat, I find the oven is the best method. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the ring on a baking sheet, and cover loosely with foil to avoid over-browning. Heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispy, golden crust and gooey cheese. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the dough soggy and the filling less appealing.

FAQs

Can I make this Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the ring up to a few hours before baking and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to pop it in the oven. Just add the butter and seasoning mixture and bake just before serving for the freshest crust.

What if I don’t have leftover turkey?

No problem! Deli turkey works just as well in this recipe, and you can easily find sliced turkey breast at most grocery stores. You can also substitute with leftover chicken if preferred for a similar flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

Yes! You can swap out the turkey for hearty roasted veggies such as mushrooms, zucchini, or butternut squash. The rest of the filling remains the same and delivers a delicious, meat-free meal.

Is it possible to use a different kind of cheese?

Definitely. While Gruyere is my favorite here because of its melt and flavor, you can substitute with Swiss, mozzarella, or sharp cheddar depending on what you have on hand or your preferred taste.

How do I store leftover crescent ring to keep it from getting soggy?

Store leftovers in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap in the fridge. If storing longer term, freeze it. Reheating in the oven helps bring back the crispiness and keeps the filling delicious.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy leftover turkey or want a show-stopping yet easy dish that brings together savory, sweet, and cheesy deliciousness, this Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe is going to become one of your favorites just like it is for me. It’s comforting, festive, and foolproof—perfect for any occasion where you want to serve something impressive without the stress. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it part of your own kitchen traditions!