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; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, quartered; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup orange juice; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Joyful Ideas

Experience the festive flavors of a perfectly roasted turkey with a tangy cranberry glaze that will impress your guests and elevate your holiday feast.

Created by

Marnie Calder

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:01:34.201Z

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze recipe combines the traditional flavors of Thanksgiving with a modern twist. The sweet and tart glaze adds a delightful finish to the juicy turkey, making it a centerpiece everyone will rave about.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy turkey infused with aromatic herbs
Sweet and tangy cranberry glaze that enhances the flavor
A stunning presentation for festive gatherings

      

The Perfect Holiday Centerpiece

Roasting a turkey is a time-honored tradition that brings family and friends together during the holiday season. This roasted turkey with cranberry glaze not only tastes delicious but also makes for a stunning centerpiece at any festive gathering. The golden-brown skin and vibrant cranberry glaze will have your guests reaching for their cameras before they even take a bite.

The process of preparing the turkey might seem daunting, but with a little patience and the right techniques, you can achieve a mouthwatering roast that rivals those served in fine dining establishments. The combination of aromatic herbs and fresh vegetables stuffed inside the turkey enhances its natural flavors, resulting in a juicy and tender meat that everyone will love.

Cranberry Glaze: A Flavorful Twist

The cranberry glaze is the star of the show in this recipe. Its sweet and tangy profile perfectly complements the savory notes of the roasted turkey. Made from fresh cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and a hint of cinnamon, this glaze elevates the dish to new heights. It not only adds a burst of flavor but also a beautiful color that enhances the overall presentation.

Using seasonal ingredients like cranberries makes this dish even more special. The vibrant red color of the glaze against the golden turkey creates a feast for the eyes, making it a delightful addition to your holiday table. Plus, this glaze can be used on other proteins and even as a spread for sandwiches, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

Expert Tips for Success

To ensure your turkey is perfectly roasted, always keep an eye on the internal temperature. Using a meat thermometer is essential to avoid overcooking, which can lead to dry turkey. The ideal internal temperature for turkey is 165°F (75°C). Remember to check the thickest part of the thigh for the most accurate reading.

Another tip is to let the turkey rest after roasting. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and moist turkey. Cover it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This patience will reward you with a beautifully succulent turkey that your family will rave about.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups chicken broth
1 onion, quartered
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped

For the Cranberry Glaze

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup orange juice
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

These ingredients will prepare a delicious roasted turkey with a flavorful cranberry glaze.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and place it in a roasting pan. Rub the turkey with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with onion, carrots, and celery.

Roast the Turkey

Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. Cover the turkey with foil and roast in the preheated oven. Roast for about 2 hours, then remove the foil and continue roasting for an additional hour, basting with pan juices every 30 minutes.

Prepare the Cranberry Glaze

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

Glaze the Turkey

During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey with the cranberry glaze. Return to the oven and continue roasting until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

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

Enjoy your beautifully roasted turkey with cranberry glaze!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider brining the turkey overnight in a mixture of salt, sugar, and water before roasting.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your roasted turkey with classic sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and roasted vegetables for a traditional holiday meal. The cranberry glaze also makes a great addition to turkey sandwiches the next day, adding a refreshing twist to leftovers. Don't forget to serve a rich gravy to complement the turkey and make every bite even more satisfying.

For a festive touch, consider garnishing your turkey with fresh herbs or citrus slices. Not only do these add visual appeal, but they also enhance the aromas, making your kitchen smell incredible as the turkey roasts. A well-set table with seasonal decor can elevate your dining experience, creating cherished memories with loved ones.

Storage and Reheating Tips

After your feast, store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days. To preserve its moisture, try to keep the turkey pieces whole and carve them only when needed. The cranberry glaze can also be stored in the fridge and used to enhance other dishes throughout the week.

When reheating turkey, do so gently to maintain its juiciness. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C), place the turkey in a covered dish, and heat until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help keep the meat moist. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of your holiday meal even after the festivities have ended.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, just ensure it's completely thawed 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 glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! The glaze can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What side dishes pair well with this turkey?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, and stuffing complement this dish perfectly.