Name: Turkey Cranberry Wreath Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 package frozen puff pastry (17.3-ounce, 2 sheets) (thawed); 8 ounces cream cheese (softened); 3 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 cup cooked turkey (chopped); 0.75 cup cranberry sauce; 1 egg (beaten for egg wash)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Imagine warm, nutty toasted pastry crowned with ruby-red cranberry and tender turkey—this Turkey Cranberry Wreath Recipe fills the kitchen with fragrant steam that hints at holiday cheer. In my first test, the layers slipped when I hurried the assembly, so I chilled the base for ten minutes to keep everything in place. Through three trials, I learned the ideal pastry thickness for a crisp exterior and silky‐smooth filling that doesn’t ooze out. If you love savory meets sweet, this wreath will charm guests at your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love Turkey Cranberry Wreath Recipe

Festive presentation that slices into beautiful portions
Balanced layers of creamy cheese, tart cranberry, and savory turkey
Make‐ahead assembly keeps holiday stress low
Inspired by classic seasonal flavors with a modern twist

A Little Background

I first encountered this concept while leafing through a vintage holiday cookbook. Turning leftover turkey and cranberry into a gleaming, twisted ring felt instantly joyful—like giving leftovers their own parade. Testing it on a crisp autumn afternoon reminded me of Sunday dinners at Grandma’s, where every aroma carried a story.

Key Ingredients for Turkey Cranberry Wreath Recipe

1 (17.3-ounce) package frozen puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed: forms a golden, flaky base; can swap for homemade dough if you have extra time.
8 ounces cream cheese, softened: adds richness and binds fillings; room temperature ensures even spreading.
3 tablespoons mayonnaise: smooths and lightens the cheese layer; plain Greek yogurt works too.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: brings a subtle tang; use whole-grain for extra texture.
1 cup cooked turkey, chopped: leftover or deli-sliced; keep pieces bite-sized for even distribution.
3⁄4 cup cranberry sauce: tart sweetness contrasts the cheese; whole-berry gives a glossy finish.

How to Make Turkey Cranberry Wreath Recipe

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one pastry sheet into an 11-inch square, keeping it cool to prevent tearing.
In a medium bowl, whisk together 8 oz cream cheese, 3 tbsp mayonnaise, and 1 tbsp Dijon mustard until silky smooth. Spread the mixture over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
Evenly scatter 1 cup chopped turkey over the cheese layer, then spoon 3⁄4 cup cranberry sauce in clusters. Gently top with the second pastry sheet, pressing edges to seal all around.
Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry edges into sixteen 1-inch strips. Hold the center as you twist each strip twice, arranging them into a wreath on the prepared sheet. Brush the entire wreath with one beaten egg, then bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and puffed. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

After my first bake, I noticed the filling oozed—next time, I patted the cranberry dry on paper towels to keep the pastry crisp.
If the twists lean inward, gently reshape them right after they come out of the oven, when the dough is still pliable.
Swap the Dijon for grainy mustard and add a sprinkle of fresh rosemary for a pine-scented twist.
To halve the recipe, use one pastry sheet and reduce fillings accordingly—bake time remains the same.

Storage & Make-Ahead Guide

This wreath holds at room temperature for up to 2 hours, or refrigerates in an airtight container for 3 days. Reheat slices at 325°F for 8–10 minutes to restore crispness. You can freeze unbaked, fully formed wreaths wrapped tightly for up to 1 month—thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. In testing, I found leftovers stayed surprisingly crisp after two days when reheated properly.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this wreath with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, or serve alongside warm butternut squash soup. For an easy buffet, cut the wreath into wedges and arrange on a wooden board surrounded by fresh herbs and extra cranberry sauce for dipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a turkey cranberry wreath stay fresh? Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.
Can I freeze the turkey cranberry wreath? Yes—assemble unbaked, wrap well, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
What’s the best way to reheat this wreath? Place slices on a baking sheet in a 325°F oven for 8–10 minutes to restore the flaky texture.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of sauce? You can simmer fresh cranberries with sugar for homemade sauce; be sure it’s cooled and not too runny.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking? Pat cranberry sauce with paper towels to remove excess moisture and keep borders at least 1-inch wide.
What else can I serve with a turkey cranberry wreath? It pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables, mixed greens, or a creamy pumpkin soup.

Final Thoughts

With its festive spiral and layers of savory turkey, tangy cranberry, and creamy cheese, this Turkey Cranberry Wreath Recipe never fails to impress. My favorite slice comes straight from the oven, still crackling as it cools, alongside a mug of spiced cider. Give it a try at your next gathering, and don’t forget to share your own twist on this celebratory wreath!

More Recipes You’ll Love

Easy Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe – main turkey dish that perfectly pairs with the wreath slices
Pressure Cooker Mashed Potatoes – creamy spuds balance the tart cranberry and flaky pastry
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts – adds a nutty, crisp vegetable side for holiday flair
Instant Pot Turkey Chili – a warming turkey dish that makes great use of leftovers