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; 4 cloves garlic, smashed; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Highlighted under: Party Cooking

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a festive centerpiece that combines tender, juicy turkey with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. Perfect for holiday feasts!

Created by

Camille Norwood

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:58:34.578Z

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is not just a meal; it’s an experience! The combination of a succulent turkey with a vibrant cranberry glaze creates a dish that is both flavorful and visually stunning. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive occasion, this recipe will surely impress your guests.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy turkey with a beautifully caramelized skin
Sweet and tangy cranberry glaze adds a delightful twist
A stunning centerpiece for your holiday table

      

The Perfect Holiday Turkey

When it comes to holiday gatherings, nothing quite compares to the aroma of a perfectly roasted turkey filling your home. This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze not only serves as a delicious main dish but also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The combination of the juicy turkey and the vibrant cranberry glaze is sure to impress your guests and elevate your holiday celebration.

Selecting the right turkey is crucial for achieving the best results. Aim for a bird that is fresh, preferably free-range, for optimal flavor and texture. Make sure to allow enough time for thawing if using a frozen turkey, as this can take several days in the refrigerator. A well-prepped turkey will yield the most succulent results.

Crafting the Cranberry Glaze

The cranberry glaze is the star of this dish, adding a layer of complexity with its sweet and tangy profile. Fresh cranberries provide a delightful burst of flavor, while the orange juice enhances the sweetness and the balsamic vinegar introduces a subtle depth. This glaze not only complements the turkey but can also be used as a zesty condiment for other proteins or even as a topping for holiday desserts.

To achieve the perfect glaze, make sure to cook the cranberries until they burst and the mixture thickens. This will help to intensify the flavors and create a sticky, flavorful coating that clings beautifully to the turkey. Don't be afraid to adjust the sweetness or acidity to your preference by tasting as you cook.

Serving Suggestions

Once the turkey has rested and is ready to be carved, consider serving it alongside traditional sides like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and roasted vegetables. These classic accompaniments not only enhance the meal but also create a well-rounded dining experience for your guests. Don't forget to offer the remaining cranberry glaze on the side for those who desire an extra burst of flavor.

For a beautiful presentation, arrange the carved turkey on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, citrus slices, or even a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds. This adds color and freshness to your holiday table, making it not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, smashed

For the Cranberry Glaze

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before preparation for best results.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Pat the turkey dry with paper towels, then rub it with olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with onion and garlic.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey breast side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the turkey occasionally with its juices.

Prepare the Cranberry Glaze

While the turkey is roasting, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, and balsamic vinegar in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.

Glaze the Turkey

During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey with the cranberry glaze. Return the turkey to the oven and continue roasting until done.

Rest and Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious roasted turkey with cranberry glaze, perfect for any festive occasion!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, brine the turkey overnight before roasting.

Storing Leftovers

After the festivities have concluded, storing your turkey leftovers properly is key to enjoying them later. Allow the turkey to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer preservation. When reheating, ensure the turkey is heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to maintain food safety.

Leftover turkey can be utilized in a variety of delicious ways. Consider using it in sandwiches, soups, or casseroles to create new and exciting meals. The cranberry glaze can also be repurposed, adding flavor to salads or as a glaze for grilled meats.

Tips for Success

To ensure your turkey is tender and juicy, consider brining it a day before roasting. This process enhances the flavor and helps retain moisture during cooking. If brining isn't an option, be sure to baste the turkey regularly to keep it moist and prevent dryness.

Using a meat thermometer is essential for achieving the perfect doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the turkey thigh, making sure not to touch bone, for the most accurate reading. This will help you avoid undercooking or overcooking your turkey, ensuring a delicious and safe meal for everyone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

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

→ How do I know when the turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

→ Can I make the cranberry glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the glaze up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What should I serve with the turkey?

Traditional sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green beans pair perfectly!