Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze

Name: Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, quartered; 1 lemon, quartered; Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage); 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Highlighted under: Spring Seasonal Food Recipes

Discover the perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast with this Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze. Juicy turkey is elevated by a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze, making it a deliciously festive dish.

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-01-02T05:42:20.501Z

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and traditions. The succulent turkey harmonizes beautifully with the sweet-tart cranberry glaze, creating a dish that will impress your family and friends.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy turkey infused with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze
A show-stopping dish perfect for holiday gatherings
Simple preparation that yields impressive results

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups chicken broth
1 onion, quartered
1 lemon, quartered
Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage)

For the Cranberry Glaze

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before starting the preparation.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey inside and out, then pat dry. Rub the turkey with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with onion, lemon, and fresh herbs.

Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Pour chicken broth into the pan, cover with foil, and roast for 2 hours. Remove the foil and roast for an additional hour, basting with pan juices periodically.

While the turkey is roasting, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and cinnamon in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water and add to the glaze to thicken further.

In the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Continue to roast until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Once done, 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 roasted turkey with cranberry glaze!

Tips for the Perfect Roast

To ensure your turkey cooks evenly, let it come to room temperature before roasting. This can take about 30 minutes; it helps the meat cook through without drying out. Additionally, using a meat thermometer is crucial to achieving the perfect doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone, and look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Basting the turkey with its juices during roasting helps to keep the meat moist and enhances the flavor. If you notice the skin browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil during the last hour of cooking.

How to Store Leftovers

After the feast, store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing the meat. Simply slice the turkey, place it in freezer-safe bags, and it can last for up to three months in the freezer.

When ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them in the oven at a low temperature to retain moisture. You can also use leftover turkey in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to soups, making the most of your holiday bird.

Enhancing Your Glaze

Feel free to customize the cranberry glaze to suit your taste! Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar can introduce a delightful depth, while mixing in chopped orange zest brightens the flavors. For those who like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.

Experimenting with the glaze not only enhances the flavor but also allows you to make the dish your own. Consider trying different fruit juices or sweeteners to create a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, just make sure to allow enough time for it to fully thaw in the refrigerator.

→ How do I know when the turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

→ Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, the cranberry glaze can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What should I serve with the turkey?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, and stuffing.