There is something truly magical about a recipe that brings together the warmth of turkey, the festive burst of cranberry, and the comforting embrace of golden crescent dough in one beautiful presentation. This Turkey and Cranberry Wreath Recipe is an absolute showstopper, perfect for holiday gatherings or any cozy night when you want a dish that feels special without fuss. Imagine serving a wreath that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat, where savory turkey meets sweet cranberry sauce, all wrapped in layers of buttery, flaky pastry. It’s a joy to share and even more fun to eat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this stunning Turkey and Cranberry Wreath Recipe is in its simple, flavorful ingredients that work together to create layers of taste and texture. Each component plays an essential role, whether bringing creaminess, tang, or that irresistible golden crust.
- 2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough: Provides the flaky, buttery base that makes the wreath both tender and golden.
- 2 cups cooked turkey, chopped or shredded: The hearty, savory star of the dish, offering satisfying protein and texture.
- ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce: Adds a sweet and tart pop to contrast with the savory turkey.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Adds creamy richness to bind the filling together without overpowering the flavors.
- 1½ cups shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey goodness, adding depth and savory tang.
- ¼ cup chopped green onions: Brings a fresh, mild bite and beautiful specks of green for color.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: A subtle spice to balance the sweetness and richness.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Ensures the crescent dough bakes to a perfect, shiny golden finish.
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds or sesame seeds (optional): Provides a bit of crunch and visual appeal on top.
How to Make Turkey and Cranberry Wreath Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Mixing Bowl
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent any stickiness and make clean-up a breeze. Meanwhile, grab a sturdy mixing bowl where you’ll combine the delicious filling ingredients.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In the bowl, blend the chopped turkey, whole berry cranberry sauce, mayonnaise, shredded cheese, green onions, and ground black pepper. Stir everything well until the mixture is uniformly combined, ensuring every bite will have a balanced mash-up of flavors.
Step 3: Shape the Crescent Dough into a Wreath
Unroll both cans of crescent roll dough and separate into 16 triangles. On your prepared baking sheet, arrange these triangles in a circle, overlapping the wide ends in the center to create a wreath shape. The pointed ends should fan outwards, forming a lovely ring with a 4 to 5 inch space open in the middle.
Step 4: Add the Filling and Fold
Evenly spoon the turkey mixture all around the ring, spreading it over the wide ends of the dough triangles. Now comes the fun part: fold the pointed ends over the filling, tucking them under the dough ring to seal in all that delicious filling snugly inside your wreath.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Seeds
Brush the entire dough wreath with the beaten egg; this step will give the crust that enticing golden sheen when baked. If you’re aiming for extra flair, sprinkle poppy or sesame seeds on top for a lovely finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your wreath in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the crescent dough is puffed, golden brown, and cooked through. Let it sit for 5 minutes after baking to allow the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
How to Serve Turkey and Cranberry Wreath Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top can add a pop of greenery and fresh aroma to your Turkey and Cranberry Wreath Recipe. For extra savory contrast, a drizzle of Dijon mustard or a dollop of sour cream on each slice is a delightful touch.
Side Dishes
This wreath pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh salads, such as a spinach salad with pecans and dried cranberries, enhancing the holiday flavors without overwhelming your palate. Roasted root vegetables or a classic mashed potato dish also complement the hearty filling perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Turkey and Cranberry Wreath Recipe right on a rustic wooden board surrounded by sprigs of rosemary and fresh cranberries for a charming centerpiece. Alternatively, slice it into wedges and arrange on a festive platter, offering individual servings that look as good as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked wreath after assembling it but before egg washing and baking. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, pop slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving to keep the crescent dough from getting soggy.
FAQs
Can I substitute chicken for turkey in this recipe?
Absolutely! This Turkey and Cranberry Wreath Recipe is very versatile, and chicken makes a wonderful substitute if turkey is not available or if you prefer its flavor.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Both Swiss and cheddar cheeses melt beautifully in the wreath, providing a creamy texture and a savory note that balances the sweetness of the cranberry sauce perfectly.
Can I add extra seasoning to the filling?
Yes! A touch of Dijon mustard or some herbs like thyme or sage can be added to ramp up the holiday flavors and give your wreath a personalized twist.
Is the wreath suitable for freezing after baking?
It’s best to freeze the wreath before baking to maintain optimal texture. You can freeze slices afterward, but they might be slightly less crisp upon reheating.
How do I make sure the crescent dough stays flaky after baking?
Brushing the dough with beaten egg before baking locks in moisture and promotes golden, flaky layers. Also, avoid covering the fresh wreath tightly after baking to preserve its crispness.
Final Thoughts
This Turkey and Cranberry Wreath Recipe is a delightful blend of comfort, festivity, and deliciousness that’s sure to become one of your go-to dishes for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself and your loved ones. With its vibrant flavors and stunning presentation, it’s a joy to make and share. I can’t wait for you to try it and add your own creative touches to make it truly yours!
Print
Turkey and Cranberry Wreath Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Turkey and Cranberry Wreath is a festive, savory pastry perfect for holiday gatherings or using up leftover turkey. Combining tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, creamy mayonnaise, and melted cheese wrapped in buttery crescent roll dough, it bakes into a golden, eye-catching wreath that serves as both an appetizer and a main course.
Ingredients
Wreath Base
- 2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
Filling
- 2 cups cooked turkey, chopped or shredded
- ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1½ cups shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Topping
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds or sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped or shredded cooked turkey, whole berry cranberry sauce, mayonnaise, shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Arrange Dough Triangles: Unroll both cans of crescent roll dough and separate into 16 triangles. On the prepared baking sheet, carefully arrange the triangles in a circle so that the wide ends overlap in the center and the points extend outward, forming a wreath shape with a 4 to 5 inch opening in the middle.
- Add Filling: Evenly spoon the turkey mixture around the center ring, placing it over the wide overlapping ends of the dough triangles to create a generous, flavorful filling base.
- Fold and Secure: Fold the pointed ends of the dough triangles over the filling and tuck these tips under the outer ring of dough, securing the shape of the wreath and enclosing the filling inside.
- Apply Egg Wash and Seeds: Brush the entire dough wreath with the beaten egg to achieve a shiny, golden crust. If desired, sprinkle poppy seeds or sesame seeds evenly over the top to add texture and visual appeal.
- Bake: Place the wreath in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the wreath from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Slice into portions and serve warm as an impressive holiday appetizer or main dish.
Notes
- This recipe is perfect for using up holiday leftovers, especially Thanksgiving turkey.
- Chicken can be substituted for turkey if preferred.
- For extra flavor, consider adding Dijon mustard or stuffing to the filling mixture.
