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); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, quartered; 4 garlic cloves, smashed; Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage); 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup orange juice; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Joyful Collection

Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a festive dish that combines the savory flavors of turkey with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.

Created by

Tilda Greenwood

Last updated on 2025-12-30T21:25:34.504Z

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is an iconic dish that brings warmth and joy to any holiday table. The combination of succulent turkey and a glossy cranberry glaze creates a stunning centerpiece that will impress your guests.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy turkey infused with fragrant herbs and spices
Sweet and tangy cranberry glaze that elevates the dish
A beautiful presentation that’s perfect for holiday feasts

      

The Perfect Holiday Centerpiece

Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is not just a meal; it's a centerpiece that brings friends and family together. The golden-brown turkey, glistening under a sweet and tangy glaze, is a sight to behold on any festive table. The aroma of herbs and spices fills the room, creating an inviting atmosphere that enhances the holiday spirit.

This dish is more than just visually appealing; it embodies tradition and warmth. Preparing a turkey is often a cherished ritual, passed down through generations. By making this recipe, you honor that tradition while adding your unique twist with the cranberry glaze, making the meal even more special.

A Flavorful Combination

The combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberry glaze is truly magical. The juicy turkey, seasoned to perfection with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs, provides a rich base that pairs beautifully with the vibrant cranberry sauce. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of flavors that will leave your guests raving about your cooking.

The glaze itself is a masterpiece, made from fresh cranberries, sugar, and citrus juices. The natural tartness of the cranberries is balanced by the sweetness of sugar and the citrusy brightness of orange and lemon juices. This glaze not only enhances the flavor of the turkey but also adds a pop of color to your plate, making it visually enticing.

Tips for Success

To ensure your turkey turns out perfectly every time, consider using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. This helps prevent overcooking and ensures that your turkey remains juicy and tender. Aim for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast for optimal results.

Don't forget to let your turkey rest after roasting! Allowing it to sit for at least 20 minutes before carving allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist turkey. Use this time to prepare your sides and set the table, making your holiday meal even more enjoyable.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, quartered
4 garlic cloves, smashed
Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage)

For the Cranberry Glaze

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

Make sure to prepare the glaze while the turkey is roasting for optimal 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. Season the inside and outside of the turkey generously with salt and pepper. Rub olive oil all over the turkey.

Stuff the cavity with the quartered onion, smashed garlic, and fresh herbs.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey in a roasting pan, breast side up. Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey every hour with the pan juices.

Make the Cranberry Glaze

While the turkey is roasting, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.

Glaze the Turkey

In the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Return to the oven and continue roasting until finished.

Rest and Serve

Once done, 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 festive meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider brining the turkey overnight before roasting.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze, consider pairing it with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or stuffing. These dishes not only complement the flavors of the turkey but also create a well-rounded holiday meal that everyone will love.

For an added touch, garnish your turkey with fresh herbs or slices of oranges and cranberries. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a refreshing element to each serving. Don't forget to serve the remaining cranberry glaze on the side for those who want an extra burst of flavor!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to separate the turkey from the glaze to maintain the best texture and flavor. Reheat the turkey in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave for quick servings.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the turkey for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

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

→ How do I know when the turkey is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

→ Can I make the cranberry glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What sides pair well with this turkey?

Traditional sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole complement this dish beautifully.