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

Highlighted under: Occasion Food

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a delightful centerpiece for your holiday gatherings, combining savory roasted flavors with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce.

Created by

Nadia Rowley

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:01:35.381Z

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is not just a meal; it's a tradition. The combination of juicy turkey and a sweet-tart cranberry glaze creates a dish that family and friends will rave about.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy turkey infused with aromatic herbs
Sweet and tangy cranberry glaze adds a festive touch
Impressive centerpiece for any holiday table

      

The Perfect Holiday Dish

When it comes to holiday meals, a roasted turkey is often the star of the show. This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze not only provides a beautiful presentation but also offers a delicious combination of flavors that your guests will rave about. The succulent meat paired with the vibrant cranberry glaze creates a balance of savory and sweet that will elevate your dining experience.

Incorporating fresh herbs adds depth to the turkey’s flavor, making each bite a delightful experience. The aromatic combination of rosemary, thyme, and sage infuses the meat, ensuring that every slice is bursting with taste. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or festive celebrations, as it showcases the essence of the season in every bite.

Cranberry Glaze: A Festive Touch

The cranberry glaze is not just a beautiful topping; it transforms the turkey into a festive masterpiece. Made from fresh cranberries, orange juice, and a hint of vanilla, this glaze brings a unique flavor that complements the roasted turkey brilliantly. The sweetness of the glaze balances the savory notes of the turkey, creating a dish that appeals to a wide range of palates.

As the glaze caramelizes during roasting, it creates a sticky, glossy finish that enhances the turkey's visual appeal. This vibrant sauce not only tastes amazing but also adds a pop of color to your holiday table, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Tips for the Perfect Roast

To ensure your turkey is perfectly roasted, it's crucial to monitor the internal temperature. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to achieve this. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast, and let the turkey rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful turkey.

Basting the turkey with its own juices every 30 minutes helps to keep the meat moist and enhances the flavor. If you notice the skin browning too quickly, loosely tent the turkey with aluminum foil to prevent burning. These simple tips will ensure that your turkey turns out juicy and beautifully golden.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

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

For the Cranberry Glaze

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon juice

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 dry. Rub the turkey with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with onion, garlic, and fresh herbs.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste with pan juices every 30 minutes.

Make the Cranberry Glaze

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

Glaze the Turkey

During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Continue roasting until the skin is caramelized and the glaze is sticky.

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 delicious turkey with family and friends!

Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze pairs wonderfully with traditional sides such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole. For a refreshing contrast, consider adding a salad with mixed greens and citrus fruits to your spread. The bright flavors in the salad will complement the richness of the turkey and glaze.

Don't forget about the sauces! Serve the remaining cranberry glaze on the side for guests who want an extra drizzle over their slices. You can also offer classic sides like gravy or a savory herb sauce, allowing everyone to customize their plates.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover turkey, you’re in luck! Cooked turkey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To maintain its flavor and moisture, try to keep the turkey whole until you're ready to serve it again. Slice it just before serving to prevent it from drying out.

When reheating, place the turkey in a covered dish with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Heat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through, usually about 20-30 minutes. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of your holiday feast even after the celebrations have ended.

Variations to Try

While this recipe shines on its own, feel free to experiment with different flavors in your cranberry glaze. Adding a splash of bourbon or a pinch of cinnamon can give the glaze a unique twist that pairs beautifully with the turkey. You might also consider incorporating spices like ginger or allspice for a warm, comforting flavor.

For a different presentation, try spatchcocking your turkey for quicker cooking and crispy skin. This method allows for more even cooking and can make your holiday meal preparation even easier. Whichever variation you choose, this recipe is versatile enough to adapt to your tastes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, just ensure it is completely thawed before cooking.

→ How long should I cook the turkey?

Cook for about 13-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C).

→ Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, the cranberry glaze can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What sides go well with this turkey?

Traditional sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green beans pair wonderfully.