Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey

Name: Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Yield: 1 Turkey (12-14 lbs)
Ingredients: 1 (12-14 lbs) turkey, thawed; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, quartered; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup orange juice; 1 cup sugar; 1 tbsp orange zest; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your holiday feast with this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey, featuring a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors. This succulent turkey, drizzled with a vibrant cranberry and orange glaze, is not only visually stunning but also a showstopper at any gathering. Impress your guests with this easy-to-follow recipe that promises juicy meat and a festive touch to your turkey centerpiece.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-23T01:20:19.478Z

This beautiful Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey is the star of any holiday dinner, bringing a burst of flavor and color to the table. The homemade glaze, made with fresh cranberries and zesty oranges, adds a festive touch that is both sweet and tart.

Why Cranberry and Orange?

Cranberries and oranges are a classic pairing, especially during the holidays. The tartness of fresh cranberries is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of orange juice, creating a delightful glaze that complements the rich flavor of turkey. This combination not only enhances the turkey’s natural taste but also adds a burst of color to your holiday table, making it visually appealing.

Moreover, cranberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, contributing a healthy element to your festive meal. They are also low in calories, providing a guilt-free way to enjoy a luscious, flavorful glaze. The orange zest intensifies the citrus notes, making every bite of turkey bright and refreshing.

Tips for a Perfectly Roasted Turkey

Achieving a perfectly roasted turkey requires a little attention to detail. First, make sure your turkey is thoroughly thawed; a frozen bird won’t cook evenly and may result in dryness. It's essential to season generously with salt and pepper, as this enhances the overall flavor of the meat. Rubbing olive oil on the skin not only adds moisture but helps achieve a beautifully golden-brown color during roasting.

Cooking the turkey at a steady temperature of 325°F (165°C) ensures even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part for safe consumption. Remember to let the turkey rest after removing it from the oven; this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender result.

Pairing Suggestions

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 (12-14 lbs) turkey, thawed
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, quartered
4 cups chicken broth

For the Cranberry Glaze

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup orange juice
1 cup sugar
1 tbsp orange zest
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Make sure to prepare the glaze while the turkey is roasting for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Season the turkey with salt and pepper, and rub with olive oil. Place onion quarters in the cavity.

Roast the Turkey

In a large roasting pan, place the turkey breast side up. Pour chicken broth into the pan and roast for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Make the Glaze

While the turkey is roasting, combine cranberries, orange juice, sugar, orange zest, and cinnamon in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 15 minutes.

Glaze the Turkey

In the last 30 minutes of roasting, generously brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Continue roasting until done.

Serve

Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. Serve with remaining glaze on the side.

Enjoy your holiday meal with family and friends!

Storage and Leftovers

After your delightful feast, you might be wondering how to store any leftover turkey. Start by letting the turkey cool completely before trimming away the meat. Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing the meat. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, or place it in a freezer-safe container for up to six months.

Leftover turkey can be incredibly versatile. Use it in soups, salads, or sandwiches to create new meals without wasting any delicious meat. You might even consider shredding the turkey and mixing it with cranberry sauce for a quick and tasty sandwich filling.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to make this recipe your own by experimenting with different flavors in the glaze. Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth or a hint of ginger for a zesty twist. You can also modify the spices, incorporating flavors like allspice or nutmeg to reflect your personal taste.

For a delightful twist, consider stuffing the turkey with a fruit-based stuffing. Ingredients such as apples, oranges, and dried cranberries pair wonderfully, creating a cohesive flavor profile. This method not only enhances the flavor but also infuses the meat with moisture as it cooks.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but make sure to adjust the cooking time for the glaze.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.