This Holiday Crescent Ring is a stunning, versatile dish that can be customized with savory or sweet fillings, making it the perfect centerpiece for any gathering. Whether you're hosting a festive brunch, a cozy family dinner, or a holiday dessert spread, this easy-to-make crescent ring is guaranteed to impress. With golden, flaky crescent dough wrapped around delicious fillings, it’s both beautiful and incredibly delicious. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy holiday entertaining.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough – The buttery, flaky foundation of this dish.
- 1 egg, beaten (optional) – Creates a glossy, golden finish.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or coarse sugar (optional) – Adds texture and visual appeal.
Savory Filling Ideas
1. Classic Ham and Cheese
- 1 cup cooked ham, chopped – Provides a salty, smoky flavor.
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully for a gooey texture.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional) – Adds a tangy kick to balance the richness.
2. Spinach and Artichoke
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or ½ cup frozen, thawed and drained) – Adds freshness and nutrients.
- ½ cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped – Provides a slightly tangy, savory taste.
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened – Makes the filling creamy and rich.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Ensures a stretchy, melty texture.
3. Turkey and Cranberry
- 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded – A great way to use holiday leftovers.
- ½ cup cranberry sauce – Balances the dish with sweetness and tartness.
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or brie cheese – Offers a smooth, creamy melt.
Sweet Filling Ideas
1. Apple Cinnamon
- 1 cup diced apples (peeled) – Provides a juicy, slightly tart bite.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar – Enhances the natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional) – Brings a crunchy contrast.
2. Nutella and Banana
- ½ cup Nutella or chocolate spread – A rich, chocolatey base.
- 1 banana, sliced – Adds natural sweetness and creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons chopped hazelnuts (optional) – Enhances the chocolate-hazelnut flavor.
3. Raspberry Cream Cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened – Creates a smooth, tangy base.
- ¼ cup raspberry jam – Adds fruity sweetness.
- ¼ cup fresh raspberries (optional) – Boosts the flavor with a juicy burst.
How to Make the Crescent Ring
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a large baking sheet or pizza pan, arrange the crescent roll triangles in a circular pattern. The wide ends should overlap in the center, forming a sunburst shape, while the pointed ends face outward.
Step 2: Add the Filling
- Choose your savory or sweet filling and spread it evenly over the wide ends of the dough in a ring shape, leaving the pointed ends exposed.
Step 3: Fold and Seal
- Gently fold the pointed ends of the dough over the filling, tucking them under the wide ends to form a ring shape. This seals in the filling while creating a beautiful braided effect.
Step 4: Brush and Garnish
- Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or coarse sugar, depending on your filling choice.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until the crescent dough is golden brown and fully cooked.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Let the crescent ring cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with dipping sauces like:
- Marinara or honey mustard for savory fillings.
- Chocolate drizzle or whipped cream for sweet fillings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Versatile – Perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert.
✔ Crowd-Pleasing – A guaranteed hit at any gathering.
✔ Festive Presentation – Looks impressive with minimal effort.
✔ Quick & Easy – Requires just a few ingredients and bakes in under 30 minutes.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Crescent Ring
✔ Use a Baking Mat – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
✔ Don’t Overfill – Too much filling can cause the ring to break open while baking.
✔ Customize Your Fillings – Mix and match for a half-savory, half-sweet ring.
✔ Chill the Dough – If the dough is too soft, refrigerate for 5 minutes before assembling to make handling easier.
Final Thoughts
This Holiday Crescent Ring is the ultimate showstopper for any occasion. Whether you prefer savory flavors like ham and cheese or turkey and cranberry, or sweet options like Nutella and banana or apple cinnamon, this recipe is endlessly customizable. With its flaky, golden crust and rich, flavorful filling, it’s bound to become a holiday favorite.
Make this easy, crowd-pleasing crescent ring for your next gathering and watch it disappear in minutes!