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Amazing Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey

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Amazing Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey is a juicy, tender holiday centerpiece roasted to perfection and coated in a bright, sweet‑tart glaze made from fresh cranberries and citrus. It’s festive, flavorful, and impressive—perfect for Thanksgiving or special gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole turkey (10–14 lbs), thawed and patted dry
  • 2–3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 4–5 sprigs fresh rosemary and thyme
  • 4–6 garlic cloves, smashed
  • Orange wedges (for cavity)
  • 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1–2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth)
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Pat the turkey dry and season generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. Stuff the cavity with orange wedges, garlic, and fresh herbs. Brush the skin with olive oil or melted butter.
  3. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Roast according to weight (about 15 minutes per pound).
  4. While the turkey roasts, combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey or maple syrup, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar (if using), ground cinnamon, and salt in a saucepan. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes jammy.
  5. During the last 30–45 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey with the cranberry orange glaze every 10–15 minutes to build up a glossy, caramelized coating.
  6. Check the turkey’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the thigh should reach 165°F (74°C).
  7. Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20–30 minutes before carving. Serve with additional glaze on the side.

Notes

  • Use orange marmalade in the glaze for extra citrus flavor and sweetness.
  • Add a splash of bourbon or apple cider to the cranberry orange glaze for more complexity.
  • Rub the turkey with a spice mix (e.g., paprika, garlic powder, and thyme) under the skin before roasting for added savory depth.
  • Use the glaze on turkey breast or chicken for a smaller version of this dish.
  • Blend the cranberry orange glaze smooth with an immersion blender for a silky finish.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/amazing-cranberry-orange-glazed-turkey/