Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey

Name: Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds); 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup orange juice; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 tablespoon grated orange zest; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Savor the seasonal flavors of this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey recipe that combines succulent turkey with a delightful citrusy and tart glaze. Perfect for festive gatherings or holiday feasts, this dish will impress your guests and elevate your dining experience with its vibrant colors and rich taste. Serve alongside a colorful veggie tray for a complete and visually stunning presentation.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-23T01:59:57.847Z

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey is a centerpiece that brings warmth and flavor to any holiday table. The glaze adds a beautiful shine and enhances the natural taste of the turkey, making it a dish to remember.

The Perfect Holiday Centerpiece

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey stands out as a show-stopping centerpiece for any festive meal. Its vibrant colors, thanks to the fresh cranberries and bright orange glaze, make it visually appealing and sure to attract attention on your dinner table. The combination of the rich, juicy turkey and the sweet-tart glaze creates a dish that not only looks beautiful but tastes incredible as well.

As you gather around the table with family and friends, having a beautifully roasted turkey can elevate the entire dining experience. This recipe is designed to offer a perfect combination of flavors while ensuring the turkey remains moist and delicious. Impress your guests with your culinary skills and enjoy the compliments that follow!

Flavor Enhancement Through Glazing

The glaze in this recipe plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor of the turkey. Made from fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, and soy sauce, it balances sweetness and acidity beautifully. As the turkey roasts, the glaze caramelizes, forming a deliciously sticky and flavorful coating that enriches each bite.

Adding orange zest contributes a lovely aromatic quality to the glaze, infusing the turkey with a citrusy brightness that complements the savory elements. This unique flavor profile not only sets this dish apart from traditional turkey recipes but also invites second servings from delighted guests eager to savor more.

Serving Suggestions

To create a beautiful and complete meal, consider serving this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey alongside a colorful veggie tray. Fresh vegetables can add a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender turkey, offering a variety of flavors and nutrients. Carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers paired with a creamy dip can elevate your feast even further.

For a hearty finish, complement the turkey with sides like roasted potatoes or a citrus salad that echoes the flavors in the glaze. A light dessert, perhaps a citrus sorbet or cranberry tart, will round off the meal beautifully, ensuring your guests leave satisfied and merry.

Ingredients

Turkey and Glaze

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup orange juice
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon grated orange zest
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Steps

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the cavity with salt and pepper.

Make the Glaze

In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and orange zest. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey in a roasting pan and brush it with the cranberry glaze. Roast for about 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

Tips for Perfect Cooking

To achieve the juiciest turkey possible, it's vital to not overlook the importance of temperature. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Basting the turkey every 30 minutes with the cranberry glaze not only keeps it moist but also enhances the flavor, giving you that perfect balance.

Additionally, letting the turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes after roasting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. This resting period is crucial for a succulent turkey that doesn’t dry out when sliced.

Storage and Leftover Ideas

If you find yourself with leftover turkey, you're in for a treat! Store the turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It can be reheated in the oven or enjoyed cold in sandwiches, salads, or wraps. Don't forget to drizzle a bit of the leftover cranberry glaze over your turkey for an added burst of flavor.

Another delicious way to use leftovers is in casseroles or soups. Chop the turkey and combine it with vegetables and broth to make a hearty turkey soup or transform it into a turkey and cranberry pot pie. These options will help you reduce waste while enjoying the delightful flavors of your holiday meal long after the event.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can make the glaze a day ahead and store it in the fridge.

→ What side dishes go well with this turkey?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce complement this turkey beautifully.