Crescent Ring Cranberry

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There’s nothing quite like a warm, golden crescent ring to make any gathering feel instantly festive. This Crescent Ring Cranberry Delight is the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, tangy, and crunchy all wrapped in flaky, buttery dough. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or looking for a stunning centerpiece for your dessert table, this cranberry-cream cheese creation delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. One slice and your guests will think you spent all morning in the kitchen (don’t worry, your secret is safe with us).

Ingredients

  • 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. Arrange them in a circular pattern on a baking sheet, overlapping the wide ends to form a ring.
  3. In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until silky smooth.
  4. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the wide ends of the arranged crescent dough.
  5. Spoon cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer, then scatter the chopped pecans on top.
  6. Fold the pointed ends of the crescent triangles over the filling and gently tuck them underneath the ring.
  7. Brush with the beaten egg, then sprinkle with sugar for a lightly sweet, golden finish.
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the ring is puffed and beautifully golden.
  9. Let cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.

Variation

  1. Orange Zest Twist: Add a teaspoon of fresh orange zest to the cream cheese mixture for a bright citrus note. It pairs beautifully with the tart cranberry and adds a refreshing holiday sparkle.
  2. Nut-Free Holiday Ring: Skip the pecans and replace them with dried cranberries or mini chocolate chips for a safe and equally festive option. This keeps all the flavor without the crunch.
  3. Savory-Sweet Swap: Try swapping the cranberry sauce for fig jam or raspberry preserves. Each brings its own unique sweet depth and transforms the ring into a new flavor experience.
  4. Almond Lovers’ Version: Replace pecans with sliced almonds and drizzle the baked ring with a light almond glaze for added sweetness and nutty aroma.

Cooking Notes

  1. Keep the Dough Cold: Cold crescent dough is easier to handle and holds its shape better during assembly. If it softens too much, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes.
  2. Leak Prevention Tip: Press the overlapping dough pieces firmly together to help seal the base of the ring so the filling stays inside as it bakes.
  3. Watch the Browning: If the top is browning too quickly, tent the ring with foil during the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Holiday Brunch Showstopper: Serve warm slices with hot coffee or spiced tea. Its balanced sweetness makes it perfect for breakfast or early gatherings.
  2. Dessert Course Centerpiece: Plate with a drizzle of warm caramel or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elevated presentation at holiday dinners.
  3. Snack-Board Addition: Pair slices with grapes, cheddar cheese, or mixed nuts on a festive snack board for an elegant party spread.

Tips

  1. Soften Cream Cheese Fully: Soft cream cheese blends smoother and avoids lumps in the filling. If you’re in a hurry, microwave it for 10–15 seconds to soften.
  2. Use Parchment Paper: This makes transferring and cleaning up much easier, especially with sticky fillings like cranberry sauce.
  3. Let It Cool Slightly: Giving the ring a few minutes to rest helps the filling settle, ensuring cleaner slices and better presentation.

Prep Time:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Protein: ~4g
  • Sodium: ~310mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make this crescent ring ahead of time?
    Yes! Assemble the ring, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add the egg wash right before baking.
  2. Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?
    Absolutely homemade adds extra texture and flavor, but store-bought works beautifully as well.
  3. What other nuts can I use?
    Walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios add great texture and flavor variations.
  4. Can I freeze leftovers?
    Yes! Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to a month. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Conclusion

This Crescent Ring Cranberry Delight is the perfect blend of festive flavors and easy preparation ideal for busy holiday mornings, cozy gatherings, or anytime you want something beautiful and delicious without the fuss. With its creamy filling, sparkling cranberry topping, and buttery golden crust, it’s sure to earn a spot in your annual holiday traditions. Enjoy every warm, delightful slice!

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Crescent Ring Cranberry

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

There’s nothing quite like a warm, golden crescent ring to make any gathering feel instantly festive. This Crescent Ring Cranberry Delight is the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, tangy, and crunchy all wrapped in flaky, buttery dough. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or looking for a stunning centerpiece for your dessert table, this cranberry-cream cheese creation delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. One slice and your guests will think you spent all morning in the kitchen (don’t worry, your secret is safe with us).

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. Arrange them in a circular pattern on a baking sheet, overlapping the wide ends to form a ring.
  3. In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until silky smooth.
  4. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the wide ends of the arranged crescent dough.
  5. Spoon cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer, then scatter the chopped pecans on top.
  6. Fold the pointed ends of the crescent triangles over the filling and gently tuck them underneath the ring.
  7. Brush with the beaten egg, then sprinkle with sugar for a lightly sweet, golden finish.
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the ring is puffed and beautifully golden.
  9. Let cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.

Notes

  1. Keep the Dough Cold: Cold crescent dough is easier to handle and holds its shape better during assembly. If it softens too much, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes.
  2. Leak Prevention Tip: Press the overlapping dough pieces firmly together to help seal the base of the ring so the filling stays inside as it bakes.
  3. Watch the Browning: If the top is browning too quickly, tent the ring with foil during the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Holiday Dessert / Breakfast Ring
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of ring)
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: ~14g
  • Sodium: ~310mg
  • Fat: ~14g
  • Saturated Fat: ~6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~7g
  • Trans Fat: ~0g
  • Carbohydrates: ~33g
  • Fiber: ~1g
  • Protein: ~4g
  • Cholesterol: ~35mg

Keywords: crescent ring, cranberry dessert, holiday brunch, cream cheese pastry, festive ring

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