Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey: A Delicious Holiday Recipe to Impress Your Guests

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to any festive table. As the holiday season approaches, I find myself reminiscing about family gatherings where this succulent turkey took center stage. The sweet and tangy glaze, made from fresh cranberries and zesty oranges, not only enhances the turkey’s natural flavors but also adds a vibrant pop of color that is simply irresistible.

Historically, cranberries have been a staple in American cuisine, especially during Thanksgiving, symbolizing the harvest and the spirit of gratitude. This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of tradition and togetherness. People love this dish for its perfect balance of taste and texture—the juicy turkey paired with the glossy, flavorful glaze creates a mouthwatering experience that leaves everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a convenient choice for both novice and seasoned cooks alike. Let’s dive into this recipe and make your next gathering unforgettable!

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds), thawed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup water
• Fresh herbs (such as thyme and rosemary) for stuffing

Preparing the Turkey

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures that your turkey cooks evenly and thoroughly. 2. **Prepare the Turkey**: Remove the turkey from its packaging and take out the giblets and neck from the cavity. Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin. 3. **Season the Turkey**: Rub the entire turkey with olive oil, making sure to cover all surfaces. Generously season the turkey inside and out with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the meat. 4. **Stuff the Turkey**: If you’re using fresh herbs, place a handful of thyme and rosemary inside the cavity of the turkey. This will infuse the meat with aromatic flavors as it cooks.

Making the Cranberry Orange Glaze

5. **Prepare the Glaze**: In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, orange zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, butter, and water. 6. **Cook the Glaze**: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally until the cranberries begin to burst and the sauce thickens, about 10-15 minutes. You want a nice, syrupy consistency. 7. **Taste and Adjust**: Once the glaze has thickened, taste it. If you prefer it sweeter, you can add a bit more brown sugar. If you want more acidity, a splash of lemon juice can brighten it up.

Cooking the Turkey

8. **Place the Turkey in the Oven**: Transfer the seasoned turkey to a roasting pan, breast side up. Tuck the wing tips under the turkey to prevent them from burning. 9. **Roast the Turkey**: Place the turkey in the preheated oven. As a general rule, roast the turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound. For a 12-14 pound turkey, this will take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. 10. **Baste the Turkey**: Every 30-45 minutes, carefully open the oven and baste the turkey with the pan juices. This helps keep the meat moist and adds flavor. 11. **Apply the Glaze**: About 30 minutes before the turkey is done, brush the cranberry orange glaze generously over the turkey. This will create a beautiful, shiny coating and enhance the flavor. 12. **Check for Doneness**: To ensure the turkey is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. If the turkey is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil.

Resting and Carving the Turkey

13. **Remove from Oven**: Once the turkey has reached the proper temperature, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier turkey. 14. **Carve the Turkey**: Using a sharp carving knife, start by removing the legs and thighs. Then, slice the breast meat against the grain. Arrange the slices on a platter for serving. 15. **Serve with Glaze**: Drizzle any remaining cranberry orange glaze over the carved turkey for an extra burst of flavor. You can also serve the glaze on the side for guests to add as they please.

Side Dishes and Pairings

16. **Choose Your Sides**: While the turkey is resting, you can prepare your favorite side dishes. Some great options include mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, stuffing, or a fresh salad. 17. **Set the Table**: As you prepare to serve, set the

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their holiday feast or special occasion. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors from the cranberry and orange glaze not only enhances the turkey’s natural juiciness but also creates a stunning centerpiece that will impress your guests. Trust me, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating the meal! For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delightful turkey with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a warm, festive twist, or even incorporating some chopped nuts for added texture. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey a try. I promise it will become a favorite in your household, just as it has in mine. Once you’ve made it, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your beautifully glazed turkey. Let’s spread the joy of cooking together!

Print