Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze

Name: Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 onion, quartered; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 cup cranberry sauce; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Special Inspiration

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a festive centerpiece that combines savory and sweet flavors, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2025-12-30T17:17:33.606Z

This delightful Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze not only brings a beautiful presentation to your holiday table but also fills the air with an irresistible aroma. The tartness of cranberry pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of roasted turkey, creating a dish that will leave your guests wanting more.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy and tender turkey infused with a flavorful glaze
Perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors
A stunning centerpiece for your holiday feast
Simple to prepare, making it accessible for all cooks

      

The Perfect Holiday Turkey

A perfectly roasted turkey is often the star of any holiday meal. The combination of a juicy, tender bird with a delicious glaze elevates your dining experience. This recipe for Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze not only ensures a succulent turkey but also adds an eye-catching finish that will impress your guests. The balance of flavors from the savory meat and the sweet glaze harmonizes beautifully, making every bite a celebration of culinary delight.

To achieve the ideal roast, it's essential to use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. This technique guarantees that your turkey will be cooked to perfection without the risk of drying out. Remember, the resting period after roasting is just as crucial as the cooking time, allowing the juices to redistribute and ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.

Cranberry Glaze: A Flavorful Twist

The cranberry glaze in this recipe is not just an accompaniment; it's a vital component that enhances the overall flavor profile of the turkey. By combining tart cranberry sauce with sweet orange juice and a hint of spice from cinnamon, this glaze brings a vibrant taste that complements the savory notes of the turkey. The addition of Dijon mustard adds a subtle kick, making this glaze a standout feature of your holiday feast.

Creating the glaze is a straightforward process that can be done while the turkey is roasting. This allows you to maximize your time in the kitchen, ensuring that everything comes together seamlessly. The glaze can also be made ahead of time and reheated, providing flexibility in your holiday preparations.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze, presentation is key. Consider placing the turkey on a large platter adorned with fresh herbs and seasonal fruits, such as oranges or cranberries, to create an inviting centerpiece. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds to the festive atmosphere of your gathering.

Pair your turkey with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole for a classic holiday meal. Don't forget to offer a selection of wines to complement the flavors of the turkey and glaze. A crisp white or a light red can enhance the experience, making your holiday dinner memorable.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 onion, quartered
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped

For the Cranberry Glaze

1 cup cranberry sauce
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Ensure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Pat the turkey dry with paper towels, then rub it all over with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the quartered onion, carrots, and celery inside the turkey cavity.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the juices from the pan.

Make the Cranberry Glaze

In a saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.

Glaze the Turkey

During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey with the cranberry glaze every 10 minutes for a beautiful, sticky finish.

Rest and Serve

Once roasted, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the remaining cranberry glaze on the side.

Carving the turkey is best done with a sharp knife for clean slices.

Tips for Success

To ensure your turkey remains juicy, consider brining it a day before roasting. A simple saltwater brine can significantly enhance moisture retention during the cooking process. If you decide to brine, make sure to adjust the salt used in your seasoning to avoid over-salting.

Always let your turkey rest after roasting. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to settle, resulting in a more flavorful and tender meat. Cover the turkey loosely with foil during this time to keep it warm while you prepare your side dishes.

Storage and Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Turkey can also be frozen for longer storage; just make sure to wrap it securely to prevent freezer burn. The cranberry glaze can be stored separately and used to enhance sandwiches or salads made with leftover turkey.

Leftover turkey can be transformed into a variety of dishes, such as turkey pot pie, soups, or hearty salads. Get creative with your leftovers, and you’ll find that the flavors of the cranberry glaze can elevate your meals throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a frozen turkey?

Yes, just make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.

→ How do I know when the turkey is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast.

→ Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.

→ What side dishes go well with this turkey?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and stuffing pair wonderfully.