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 pounds); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Highlighted under: Holiday Cooking

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast, combining succulent meat with a sweet and tangy glaze.

Created by

Nerissa Caldwell

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:05:34.059Z

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is not just a dish; it's a tradition. The combination of savory roasted turkey with a homemade cranberry glaze creates a delightful contrast that will leave your guests wanting more. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Succulent turkey infused with rich flavors
Sweet and tangy cranberry glaze that elevates the dish
A show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday table

The Perfect Holiday Dish

When it comes to holiday gatherings, nothing quite compares to a beautifully roasted turkey. This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is not only a delicious choice but also a visual masterpiece that will impress your guests. Imagine the golden-brown skin glistening with a vibrant cranberry glaze, ready to be carved at the table. This dish encapsulates the spirit of celebration and togetherness, making it a must-have for your festive meals.

A well-roasted turkey should be both juicy and flavorful, and this recipe ensures just that. The combination of olive oil, salt, and pepper creates a savory crust that seals in moisture. Coupled with the sweet and tangy cranberry glaze, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors. This turkey will be the talk of your holiday gathering, leaving your friends and family asking for seconds.

Cranberry Glaze: A Flavorful Twist

The cranberry glaze is what truly sets this turkey apart from traditional recipes. By combining fresh cranberries with sugar, orange juice, and a hint of cinnamon, you create a sauce that balances sweetness with tartness. This glaze not only enhances the turkey's flavor but also adds a pop of color, making your dish visually appealing. It's the perfect accompaniment that brings the entire meal together.

Moreover, the glaze is versatile and can be used in various ways. Beyond serving it with turkey, consider using it as a topping for mashed potatoes or drizzling it over roasted vegetables. Its unique flavor profile opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to incorporate it into your holiday menu creatively.

Tips for the Best Roasted Turkey

To ensure your turkey turns out perfectly, follow a few essential tips. First, always let your turkey rest for at least 20 minutes after roasting. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful. Additionally, consider using a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Another helpful tip is to baste the turkey regularly during the last hour of cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve that desirable golden-brown color. Lastly, don’t forget to save the drippings from the roasting pan to make a delicious gravy, adding another layer of flavor to your holiday feast.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups chicken broth

For the Cranberry Glaze

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the turkey, and season generously with salt and pepper. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.

Make the Cranberry Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. If a thicker glaze is desired, stir in the cornstarch mixed with a little water.

Roast the Turkey

Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the turkey with the cranberry glaze every 30 minutes during the last hour of cooking.

Serve

Once done, let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the remaining cranberry glaze on the side.

Enjoy your delicious roasted turkey!

Pro Tips

Make sure to let the turkey rest after cooking to ensure juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze, presentation is key. Arrange the carved turkey on a large platter, surrounded by seasonal garnishes like fresh herbs, citrus slices, or even roasted vegetables for a beautiful display. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also invites guests to dig in.

Accompany the turkey with traditional sides such as stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole for a well-rounded holiday meal. A crisp salad can also add freshness and balance to the rich flavors of the turkey and glaze.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have any leftover turkey, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The cranberry glaze can also be kept in a separate container, allowing you to enjoy the flavors again. For best results, slice the turkey before storing to make reheating easier.

When it's time to enjoy those leftovers, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the turkey slices in a baking dish, cover them with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. Drizzle a bit of the cranberry glaze over the turkey before serving to keep the flavors vibrant.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

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

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cranberry glaze up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What sides go well with this turkey?

Mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and stuffing are great options!