Name: Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 to 3 pounds boneless, skinless turkey breast; 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries; ½ cup orange juice; ¼ cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder

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Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is a bright, flavorful twist on traditional roast turkey. With juicy, tender meat and a tangy-sweet glaze made from fresh cranberries, orange juice, and warm spices, this dish brings festive flair to the table without the hassle of a whole bird. It’s perfect for smaller holiday gatherings or anytime I want to enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving without all the fuss.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how this turkey breast stays incredibly moist while roasting, thanks to the glaze and the simple seasoning rub. The cranberry-orange combination gives it a refreshing burst of flavor, balancing sweet and tart beautifully. It feels special enough for holidays, yet it’s easy enough for a cozy Sunday dinner. I also appreciate that it cooks much faster than a whole turkey, making it a great option when I’m short on time but still want something festive and homemade.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 to 3 pounds turkey breast, boneless and skinless
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and set out a roasting pan.
In a medium saucepan, I combine the cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. I cook the mixture over medium heat for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the glaze thickens. Then I take it off the heat and let it cool slightly.
In a small bowl, I stir together olive oil, garlic powder, and onion powder. I rub this seasoning mixture all over the turkey breast.
I place the turkey breast in the prepared roasting pan and pour half of the cranberry orange glaze over the top, reserving the rest for serving.
I roast the turkey for about 1 hour, basting with the glaze every 20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Once the turkey is done, I let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing to keep the juices sealed in.
I serve it warm, with the remaining glaze drizzled over the top.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 60 minutes
Rest time: 15 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 250
Net Carbs: 15g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 10g

Variations

When I want a bit of heat, I stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the glaze.
For extra citrus flavor, I sometimes add a teaspoon of orange zest to the glaze while cooking.
I’ve swapped honey for maple syrup for a different depth of sweetness, and it worked beautifully.
To make it more herb-forward, I add a little chopped rosemary or thyme to the rub.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I like to place slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through. I reheat the leftover glaze separately and drizzle it over the turkey just before serving. For longer storage, the turkey freezes well—just wrap tightly and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in turkey breast?

Yes, I’ve made this with a bone-in breast. It may take 10–15 minutes longer to cook, so I always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often make the glaze a day in advance and store it in the fridge. I reheat it slightly before using.

What sides go well with this dish?

I like serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or green beans. It also pairs well with wild rice or a simple salad.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, I’ve done that too. I place the seasoned turkey and half the glaze in the slow cooker, cook on low for 4–5 hours, then finish with the remaining glaze when serving.

Is this glaze too sweet?

Not at all. I find it perfectly balanced, but if I prefer it less sweet, I reduce the honey or brown sugar slightly.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is one of my favorite ways to bring warmth and elegance to the table without spending hours in the kitchen. The flavors are festive and vibrant, and the process is simple enough for any skill level. Whether it’s part of a holiday meal or just a special weeknight dinner, this dish always impresses with its color, taste, and comforting aroma.