Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with this mouthwatering Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey recipe. Juicy turkey is beautifully roasted and coated with a luscious glaze made from fresh cranberries and zesty oranges, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tart. This stunning centerpiece will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds during the holiday celebrations.
The Perfect Holiday Centerpiece
This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey is not just a dish; it's the star of your Thanksgiving table. With its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma, it captures the essence of the holiday season. Imagine the delighted faces of your family and friends as they gather around to feast on this beautifully roasted turkey, its skin glistening from the luscious glaze. serving this dish will definitely elevate your holiday meal, making it a cherished tradition for years to come.
Furthermore, the combination of sweet cranberries and zesty oranges in the glaze creates an unforgettable flavor profile. This delightful pairing enhances the natural savory taste of the turkey, ensuring that every bite is a moment of culinary bliss. Your guests will be raving about the unique flavor experience long after the meal is over, making this recipe a surefire hit for any holiday gathering.
A Flavorful Glaze to Remember
The cranberry orange glaze is what sets this turkey apart from the rest. By incorporating fresh ingredients like cranberries and oranges, you create a glaze that not only complements the meat but also adds a touch of seasonal brightness to the dish. The burst of tartness from the cranberries, combined with the sweet warmth from the orange juice, results in a well-rounded flavor that is both festive and comforting.
As the turkey roasts in the oven, the glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a crispy and flavorful crust that everyone will love. Don't be surprised if your guests start asking for the recipe as soon as they take their first bite. This glaze is versatile enough to use on other proteins and dishes, making it a great addition to your cooking repertoire.
Ingredients
Turkey
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cranberry Orange Glaze
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting.
Cooking Steps
Prepare the Turkey
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Prepare the turkey by removing the giblets and patting dry. Rub salt and pepper all over the turkey.
Make the Glaze
In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, sugar, orange zest, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
Roast the Turkey
Place the turkey on a roasting rack. Brush half of the cranberry orange glaze over the turkey and roast for about 2 hours. Baste occasionally with the remaining glaze.
Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Serve
Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the leftover glaze.
Enjoy your delicious Thanksgiving turkey!
Tips for Perfect Roasting
To ensure that your turkey is perfectly roasted, consider brining it the night before. This helps to infuse moisture and flavor deep into the meat, making it tender and juicy when cooked. If you have time, let the turkey sit uncovered in the refrigerator for a few hours before roasting; this allows the skin to dry out and leads to a crispy finish when cooked.
Always use a reliable meat thermometer to check for doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. When the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), the turkey is safe to eat. A perfectly cooked turkey should have a golden-brown skin and juicy, flavorful meat.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey, presentation is key. Carve the turkey and arrange the slices on a beautiful platter, then drizzle with some of the leftover glaze for an elegant touch. You may also want to garnish with sprigs of fresh herbs or orange slices to enhance the festive appearance.
Pair your turkey with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a vibrant salad to create a balanced meal. The tangy glaze will pair wonderfully with most sides, ensuring that every element of your Thanksgiving feast is a hit. Don't forget to serve extra glaze on the side for those who want that additional burst of flavor!
Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey
Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with this mouthwatering Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey recipe. Juicy turkey is beautifully roasted and coated with a luscious glaze made from fresh cranberries and zesty oranges, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tart. This stunning centerpiece will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds during the holiday celebrations.
Created by: Naomi Clarke
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1
What You'll Need
Turkey
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cranberry Orange Glaze
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Prepare the turkey by removing the giblets and patting dry. Rub salt and pepper all over the turkey.
In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, sugar, orange zest, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
Place the turkey on a roasting rack. Brush half of the cranberry orange glaze over the turkey and roast for about 2 hours. Baste occasionally with the remaining glaze.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the leftover glaze.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 60g
- Fat: 20g