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; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, quartered; 4 sprigs fresh thyme; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Highlighted under: Joyful Food

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a festive centerpiece that combines the savory flavors of perfectly roasted turkey with a sweet and tart cranberry glaze.

Created by

Cleo Winter

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:10:34.456Z

Every Thanksgiving, our family gathers around the table to enjoy this Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze. The aroma fills the house, and the vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A beautiful balance of savory turkey and sweet cranberry glaze
Perfectly moist and flavorful turkey that impresses every guest
An ideal dish for holiday gatherings and special occasions

      

The Perfect Holiday Dish

Roasted turkey is often the star of holiday gatherings, and this recipe elevates it to a new level with a delightful cranberry glaze. The combination of savory and sweet flavors creates a memorable dish that will leave your guests raving. Whether it's Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this turkey is sure to impress.

Preparing a whole turkey may seem intimidating, but with the right approach, it can be a straightforward and rewarding experience. This recipe guides you through each step, ensuring that your turkey turns out moist, flavorful, and beautifully golden brown. Plus, the cranberry glaze adds a festive touch that enhances the overall presentation.

Tips for a Successful Roast

To achieve the best results, it’s crucial to start with a quality turkey. Choose a fresh or properly thawed turkey for the most succulent meat. Additionally, letting the turkey sit at room temperature for about an hour before roasting will help it cook more evenly.

Basting the turkey every 30 minutes not only adds moisture but also helps to create a beautifully caramelized skin. For extra flavor, consider adding herbs and spices to the basting liquid, enhancing the overall taste of your roast.

Pairing Suggestions

This roasted turkey pairs beautifully with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and stuffing. The vibrant cranberry glaze complements the savory flavors of these traditional dishes, creating a harmonious plate that delights the senses.

Don't forget about dessert! A pumpkin pie or pecan pie would make a wonderful ending to your festive meal. The sweet and spicy notes of these desserts will echo the flavors in your main dish, providing a cohesive dining experience.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups chicken broth
1 onion, quartered
4 sprigs fresh thyme

For the Cranberry Glaze

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Make sure to let the turkey rest before carving for the juiciest slices.

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the turkey giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Rub the turkey with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper. Place the onion and thyme inside the cavity.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey in a roasting pan and pour chicken broth around it. Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, basting every 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Make the Cranberry Glaze

In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.

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 golden brown.

Serve

Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with remaining cranberry glaze on the side.

Enjoy this delightful turkey with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the turkey overnight with herbs and spices.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover turkey is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Store any uneaten turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it easy to whip up sandwiches, salads, or casseroles for quick meals throughout the week.

If you want to keep your leftovers longer, consider freezing the turkey. Make sure to slice the meat and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy the flavors of your festive meal even months later!

Cranberry Glaze Variations

While this cranberry glaze is delicious as is, feel free to get creative! You can add a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for depth. For an extra kick, try incorporating some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

In addition, experimenting with different spices can yield interesting flavors. Consider adding ginger for warmth or swapping cinnamon for allspice to create a unique twist on this classic glaze.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, just ensure to thaw it completely before roasting.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cranberry glaze a day before and refrigerate it.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and stuffing are excellent choices.