If you’re looking for a festive centerpiece that tastes every bit as joyful as it looks, the Turkey and Cranberry Wreath is a true showstopper. This luscious, savory pastry ring brims with tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, creamy cheese, and crisp veggies, all wrapped in golden crescent dough. Whether you’re celebrating with friends or making magic out of your holiday leftovers, one bite of this wreath and you’ll see why it’s a beloved tradition for so many.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Turkey and Cranberry Wreath comes together with just a handful of thoughtfully selected staples. Each ingredient plays a distinct role in flavor, texture, or visual appeal, so don’t skip a thing—little touches make a big difference here!
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough: Provides the flaky, buttery base and turns the filling into an eye-catching wreath.
- 2 cups cooked turkey, chopped or shredded: The heart of the dish—use leftover turkey for a simple, tasty shortcut.
- 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce: Adds a beautiful tartness and color that perfectly balances the savory filling.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Makes the filling extra creamy, hold things together, and ensures every bite is rich.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Offers a gentle zing that wakes up all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup chopped celery: Brings a crisp, refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Lends subtle sharpness and a pop of green.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors—don’t leave it out!
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds warmth and just a hint of spice.
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or mozzarella cheese: Melts into the filling for gooey texture and subtle flavor.
- 1 egg, lightly beaten: Brushing this over the top ensures your wreath comes out gloriously golden and shiny.
How to Make Turkey and Cranberry Wreath
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Equipment
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a large baking sheet or, if you’re feeling extra festive, a pizza stone for an evenly crisped base. You’ll want your tools ready because once the dough is unrolled, things move quickly!
Step 2: Shape the Crescent Dough
Unroll both cans of crescent dough and gently separate into individual triangles. Arrange these triangles in a circular pattern on your baking sheet, with the wide ends overlapping in the center and the pointed ends radiating outward. This is what gives the Turkey and Cranberry Wreath its crowd-pleasing, festive appearance—think of it as culinary origami!
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the cooked turkey, whole berry cranberry sauce, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, green onions, salt, black pepper, and shredded cheese. Give it a good stir so every bite will have a perfect mix of creamy, crunchy, savory, and tangy.
Step 4: Fill and Fold the Wreath
Spoon the turkey and cranberry filling evenly around the circle over the wide ends of the dough triangles. Then, take the pointed ends and gently fold them over the filling, tucking them under the center of the ring. This not only locks in the delicious filling but also creates that signature wreath effect.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
For that gorgeous golden finish, brush the surface of the dough with the beaten egg. Slide your wreath into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and a deep golden brown. Let your Turkey and Cranberry Wreath cool slightly on the baking sheet before slicing—this allows the filling to set just enough for easy serving.
How to Serve Turkey and Cranberry Wreath
Garnishes
Add a little flourish to your Turkey and Cranberry Wreath with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme scattered over the top. For a brighter look, a sprinkle of fresh pomegranate seeds or orange zest really stands out and pairs beautifully with the flavors inside.
Side Dishes
Serve your wreath alongside a crisp winter salad, roasted vegetables, or even garlicky green beans for a full holiday-worthy spread. It’s also wonderful with a bowl of soup for a cozy lunch or dinner. Let the main event shine, but pair it with simple, colorful sides for extra comfort and satisfaction.
Creative Ways to Present
Place the Turkey and Cranberry Wreath on a platter lined with leafy greens or curly kale for a festive table centerpiece. Tuck in a few clusters of fresh grapes or sliced apples around the edges for a more abundant look, or set out small bowls of extra cranberry sauce for dipping. The wreath shape invites sharing, so let everyone pull off their own slice right at the table!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), wrap the remaining slices in foil or place them in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld and intensify, making for an irresistible snack or lunch the next day.
Freezing
The Turkey and Cranberry Wreath freezes surprisingly well! Allow it to cool fully, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil. Pop the wrapped portions into a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C), place slices on a baking sheet, and warm for 10–15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside. Avoid the microwave for large portions, as it can make the pastry soggy—though a quick zap works for single slices in a pinch!
FAQs
Can I make the Turkey and Cranberry Wreath ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the wreath up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. When ready to bake, brush with the egg and pop it straight into the oven. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of turkey?
Leftover chicken works perfectly in place of turkey, making this recipe a great year-round option. You could even try rotisserie chicken for maximum convenience and juiciness.
Is there a way to make the Turkey and Cranberry Wreath vegetarian?
Certainly! Substitute cooked, seasoned chickpeas or a plant-based chicken alternative for the turkey and follow the rest of the steps as written. You’ll still get all the classic flavors and beautiful presentation.
How do I keep the wreath from unrolling or leaking while baking?
Make sure to tuck the pointed ends of the crescent dough firmly under the wide center portion, sealing in as much filling as possible. Don’t overfill and always brush with egg wash—it helps hold everything together and gives it a glossy finish.
Can I add other mix-ins to the filling?
Definitely! Chopped toasted pecans, dried cranberries, or even fresh herbs like rosemary or sage make wonderful additions for added flavor and texture. Feel free to get creative and make the Turkey and Cranberry Wreath your own signature dish.
Final Thoughts
This Turkey and Cranberry Wreath isn’t just a recipe—it’s a new tradition waiting to happen. With its welcoming shape and balanced, festive flavors, it’s guaranteed to spark smiles around your table. Give it a try for your next gathering or just because you want a little extra joy in your meal—you’ll never look at leftovers the same way again!
Print
Turkey and Cranberry Wreath Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Turkey and Cranberry Wreath is a delightful and festive dish perfect for holiday gatherings or using up leftover turkey. A wreath made from crescent roll dough filled with a flavorful mixture of turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Crescent Roll Wreath:
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
Filling:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, chopped or shredded
- 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or mozzarella cheese
Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Dough: Unroll the crescent dough and arrange in a circle on a baking sheet, forming a wreath shape.
- Make Filling: Mix turkey, cranberry sauce, mayonnaise, mustard, celery, green onions, salt, pepper, and cheese. Spoon over the dough.
- Shape Wreath: Fold and tuck the dough to form a wreath. Brush with beaten egg.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly, slice, and serve.
Notes
- This wreath is perfect for holiday brunches or using up Thanksgiving leftovers.
- Substitute chicken for turkey and add nuts or herbs for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
