Hey there! Have you ever wished for a turkey recipe that’s juicy, flavorful, and irresistibly festive? Well, this Roast Turkey with Cranberry Orange Glaze is your new holiday centerpiece. It’s a recipe that brings together the comforting vibes of a traditional roast turkey with the fresh, zesty brightness of cranberries and oranges. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fancy dinner where you want to impress without the stress!
If you’re ready to wow your guests, let this be your go-to glazed turkey recipe!
### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
– It’s a show-stopping centerpiece with a glossy, caramelized glaze that screams holiday cheer.
– The sweet-tart cranberry orange glaze elevates this turkey from classic to unforgettable.
– You’ll get juicy, perfectly roasted meat every time, and I’ll share all my secrets to make it foolproof.
– Plus, this recipe includes plenty of pro tips for making it work for your schedule and your tastes.
### **Ingredients Breakdown**
#### **Essentials**
– **Whole Turkey (12–14 pounds):** Choose a fresh or thawed turkey for the best results. If frozen, make sure to fully thaw in the fridge (allow about 24 hours for every 4–5 pounds of turkey).
– **Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup):** Butter helps keep the meat moist and creates that golden-brown color.
– **Salt and Black Pepper:** The basics of seasoning, but don’t underestimate their importance.
– **Fresh Herbs (like thyme, rosemary, and sage):** These infuse the turkey with seasonal flavors—fresh is best, but dried works if needed!
– **Cranberries (1½ cups):** Fresh or frozen cranberries are the star of our glaze.
– **Orange Juice and Zest (from 2 oranges):** Adds that bright citrusy punch to balance the tartness of the cranberries.
– **Honey (1/4 cup):** Helps sweeten the glaze and give it a sticky, glossy finish.
– **Garlic (4 cloves):** Adds a savory note that complements the glaze beautifully.
#### **Pro Tips**
– If you can’t find fresh cranberries, use frozen without thawing first.
– No fresh oranges? Bottled orange juice and a pinch of dried orange peel are great substitutes.
– For added depth of flavor, use a mix of honey and brown sugar in the glaze.
### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
#### **Prepare the Turkey**
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the turkey on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan.
2. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels, then coat the skin generously with softened butter. Season the inside of the cavity and outside of the bird with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with a few garlic cloves, orange slices, and sprigs of fresh herbs for extra flavor.
#### **Make the Cranberry Orange Glaze**
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer and cook until the cranberries begin to burst, about 10 minutes.
2. Mash the cranberries with a fork for a jam-like consistency, then simmer for another 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Strain through a fine mesh sieve for a smooth glaze, or leave as is for a chunkier texture.
#### **Roast the Turkey**
1. Roast the turkey uncovered for about 2½ to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste every 30 minutes with the pan drippings to keep the skin moist and create a golden crust.
2. For the last hour of roasting, brush the turkey with the cranberry orange glaze every 15 minutes. This builds up that beautiful sticky layer without letting it burn.
#### **Rest and Serve**
1. Once your turkey is perfectly roasted, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving to lock in those juices.
2. Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary and orange slices for a festive touch.
### **Chef’s Tips and Tricks**
– **Avoid Overbasting:** While basting helps with moisture and flavor, overdoing it can make the skin soggy. Stick to about every 30 minutes.
– **Glaze Consistency:** If your glaze feels too thin, simmer it a few extra minutes to thicken. On the other hand, if it’s too thick to brush, warm it slightly with a splash of orange juice.
– **Meat Thermometer is Key:** Don’t rely on timing alone! Internal temperatures are the best way to ensure your turkey is perfectly cooked.
### **Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions**
#### **Variations**
– Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper flavor profile.
– Add a splash of bourbon to the glaze for a warm, smoky twist.
– If you love heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a subtle kick.
#### **What to Serve With This Recipe**
– Creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the extra glaze.
– Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans for a touch of crispiness.
– A bold red wine like Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of this turkey.
### **FAQs**
#### **Can I make the glaze ahead?**
Absolutely! You can make the glaze up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat before brushing it onto the turkey.
#### **What’s the best way to store leftovers?**
Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
#### **Can I use this glaze on chicken instead of turkey?**
Yes! This glaze is equally delicious on roasted chicken or even a pork loin. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
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This Cranberry Orange Glaze Roast Turkey is holiday magic on a plate, and I can’t wait for you to try it. Whether it’s your first time hosting or you’re a seasoned pro, this recipe is here to help you shine. I’d love to see how your turkey turns out—don’t forget to tag me on Instagram with #TheKitchensAid. Happy roasting, my friends!
