Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze

Name: Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds); 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup orange juice; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary) for garnish

Highlighted under: Fall Seasonal Food Recipes

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a festive centerpiece perfect for your holiday gatherings.

Created by

Elowen Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-30T17:22:34.208Z

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a delightful blend of savory and sweet, making it a must-try for your holiday feast.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Succulent turkey infused with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze
A stunning centerpiece that impresses guests
Perfectly balanced flavors that are sure to please everyone

The Perfect Holiday Dish

There's something truly special about a beautifully roasted turkey on the dining table during the holidays. This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze not only serves as a delicious main course but also as an eye-catching centerpiece that brings joy to gatherings. The warm, golden-brown skin glistening with cranberry glaze creates an inviting atmosphere, making it a dish that everyone looks forward to.

The combination of flavors in this recipe is designed to tantalize your taste buds. The sweetness of the cranberry glaze complements the savory, juicy turkey, creating a perfect balance that appeals to all palates. Adding fresh herbs for garnish enhances not just the flavor but also the presentation, ensuring that your turkey is not only tasty but also visually stunning.

Tips for a Perfect Roast

To achieve the best results, it's essential to start with a well-prepared turkey. Make sure to clean it thoroughly and pat it dry. This step is crucial as it helps the skin crisp up beautifully during roasting. Additionally, seasoning generously with salt and pepper enhances the turkey's natural flavors, setting the stage for a mouthwatering dish.

Basting the turkey every 30 minutes while roasting is another key tip. It not only keeps the meat moist but also allows the cranberry glaze to penetrate deeper into the turkey, amplifying the flavor. If you find that the skin is browning too quickly, you can cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the meat cooks through.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking!

Turkey and Glaze Ingredients

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup orange juice
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary) for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly roasted turkey.

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Clean the turkey inside and out, removing any giblets. Pat dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.

Make the Cranberry Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, and cinnamon. Cook until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey in a roasting pan. Brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Roast in the preheated oven, basting every 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), approximately 2 hours.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with remaining cranberry glaze and garnish with fresh herbs.

Enjoy your delicious roasted turkey with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding garlic and onion inside the turkey cavity before roasting.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your roasted turkey, consider pairing it with traditional side dishes like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole. These accompaniments enhance the festive spirit of your meal and complement the flavors of the turkey wonderfully. Don't forget to set out extra cranberry glaze on the side for those who love a little extra sweetness!

For a refreshing contrast, a crisp salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette can be a perfect addition. The acidity from the dressing can cut through the richness of the turkey, making each bite delightful. And for dessert, a pumpkin or pecan pie rounds out the festive feast beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them properly is essential for maintaining flavor and quality. Allow the turkey to cool to room temperature before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to four days or in the freezer for several months. Just remember to label your storage container with the date for easy reference.

When reheating, try to keep the turkey moist by adding a splash of broth or water. Cover it with foil to retain moisture and heat it in the oven at a low temperature. This way, you can enjoy the succulent flavors of your holiday turkey well beyond the main event!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking.

→ How do I know when the turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

→ Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Absolutely! The glaze can be made up to a week ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What should I serve with the turkey?

Traditional sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green beans pair wonderfully with this dish.