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; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Highlighted under: Joyful Meals

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze recipe offers a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table, featuring juicy turkey complemented by a sweet and tangy glaze.

Created by

Rowena Hartwell

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:04:34.292Z

Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive occasion, this Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is sure to impress your guests. The combination of savory turkey with a sweet cranberry sauce creates a delightful balance of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy and tender turkey with a flavorful glaze
Perfectly balanced sweet and tangy cranberry sauce
Impressive presentation for any holiday gathering

      

The Perfect Holiday Dish

There's something truly special about serving a beautifully roasted turkey at the holiday table. This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze not only satisfies the palate but also creates a warm atmosphere filled with the delicious aroma of spices and herbs. The vibrant colors of the cranberry glaze add a festive touch, making it an eye-catching centerpiece that your guests will rave about.

Roasting a turkey may seem daunting, but with the right preparation and timing, it can be a straightforward process. The key to a succulent turkey lies in proper seasoning and cooking techniques. The combination of juicy meat and a sweet-tangy glaze will have everyone coming back for seconds, ensuring that your holiday gathering is a memorable one.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, start with a quality turkey. Look for a fresh or organic bird for superior flavor and tenderness. Additionally, brining the turkey a day before roasting can enhance the juiciness and impart extra flavor. If you decide to brine, remember to adjust the salt in your seasoning to avoid over-salting.

Another important tip is to allow your turkey to come to room temperature before roasting. This ensures even cooking throughout the bird. Don't forget to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh for safe consumption.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your roasted turkey, presentation is key. Carve the turkey in front of your guests to create an engaging experience, and arrange the slices on a large platter. Garnish with fresh herbs and cranberries for a festive touch. Pair your turkey with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole to complete the meal.

Don't forget about the cranberry glaze! Serve it in a small bowl alongside the turkey for guests to drizzle over their slices. This sweet and tangy sauce not only elevates the flavor of the turkey but also adds a beautiful pop of color to the plate. With the right sides and garnishes, your holiday feast will be a true celebration.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
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 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon zest

Make sure to prep your ingredients ahead of time for a smoother cooking experience!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

Prepare the Turkey

Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the turkey and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with the onion, carrots, and celery.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Make the Cranberry Glaze

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

Glaze the Turkey

During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Continue roasting until the turkey is fully cooked.

Rest and Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze!

Pro Tips

For an extra crispy skin, increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I let the turkey rest before carving? It's best to let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful turkey.

Can I make the cranberry glaze ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cranberry glaze in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving for optimal taste.

Storage and Leftovers

Leftover turkey can be a delightful treat! Store any leftover meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing the turkey in portions. Shred or slice the meat and place it in freezer-safe bags for convenient use in sandwiches, soups, or casseroles later on.

To ensure that your leftover cranberry glaze remains fresh, store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also use it as a spread for sandwiches or a topping for desserts like cheesecake or yogurt, giving new life to your holiday flavors.

Pairing Wine with Turkey

When it comes to wine pairings for roasted turkey, consider a medium-bodied red or a crisp white. Pinot Noir is an excellent choice due to its fruity notes and balanced acidity, which complements the flavors of the turkey and cranberry glaze. Alternatively, a Chardonnay with its buttery texture can enhance the richness of the meal.

For those who prefer white wine, a Sauvignon Blanc offers refreshing citrus notes that can cut through the richness of the turkey, creating a delightful contrast. No matter your preference, a well-paired wine will elevate your holiday dining experience and make your meal even more memorable.

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?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the thigh; it should reach 165°F (75°C).

→ Can I make the cranberry glaze in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze a few days ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

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