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 lbs); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup orange juice; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Highlighted under: Winter Seasonal Food Favorites

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table, combining savory flavors with a sweet, tangy glaze.

Created by

Chloe Baker

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:22:34.181Z

This recipe for Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze combines the traditional flavors of a holiday turkey with a unique cranberry glaze. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive occasion, this dish will be the star of your meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory turkey complemented by a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze
A show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday gathering
Easy to prepare with a flavorful marinade

      

Perfect for Holiday Gatherings

The holiday season is all about bringing family and friends together, and what better way to celebrate than with a beautifully roasted turkey? This dish not only serves as a stunning centerpiece but also offers a delightful combination of flavors that everyone will love. The juicy turkey paired with a luscious cranberry glaze creates a memorable meal that will leave your guests raving about your culinary skills.

As you gather around the table, the warm aroma of roasted turkey will evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort. It's a dish that has the power to create lasting memories, making it a perfect choice for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive occasion. Your loved ones will appreciate the effort you put into preparing this delicious feast, and it will undoubtedly become a cherished tradition in your household.

Flavorful Marinade and Glaze

The secret to a truly remarkable turkey lies in the marinade and glaze. By seasoning the turkey with salt, pepper, and olive oil, you enhance its natural flavors, ensuring that every bite is succulent and satisfying. The cranberry glaze, made from fresh cranberries, orange juice, and just the right amount of sugar, adds a sweet and tangy twist that perfectly complements the savory turkey.

While the turkey roasts in the oven, the glaze thickens and caramelizes, creating a beautiful, glossy finish. This not only elevates the presentation but also adds layers of flavor that will make your taste buds dance. Basting the turkey with the glaze every 30 minutes ensures that it remains moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process, guaranteeing a delicious outcome every time.

Ingredients

Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Cranberry Glaze

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup orange juice
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Make sure to prepare the glaze while the turkey is roasting.

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat dry. Season the inside and outside with salt and pepper, then rub with olive oil.

Make the Cranberry Glaze

In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, and balsamic vinegar. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries pop and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey in a roasting pan. Brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. Serve with additional cranberry glaze on the side.

Enjoy your delicious roasted turkey!

Tips for the Perfect Roast

To achieve a perfectly roasted turkey, it’s essential to choose the right size for your gathering. A 12-14 lb turkey typically serves around 10-12 people, but if you have a larger crowd, consider cooking two smaller turkeys instead. This allows for even cooking and easier handling during carving.

Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast and thigh. This not only guarantees safety but also helps prevent overcooking, which can lead to dry meat. Allowing the turkey to rest after cooking is equally important, as it helps redistribute the juices, resulting in a more flavorful and moist dish.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your roasted turkey, presentation matters. Carve the turkey tableside to create an impressive display, and consider garnishing with fresh herbs or citrus slices for a pop of color. Pair the turkey with traditional sides like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole for a complete holiday meal.

Don't forget to offer extra cranberry glaze on the side for guests who want an additional burst of flavor. This dish also pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables, adding freshness to your festive spread. For dessert, consider finishing the meal with pumpkin pie or apple crisp for a sweet ending to your holiday feast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, but 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 that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

→ Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the cranberry glaze up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What sides pair well with this turkey?

Traditional sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green beans complement this dish beautifully.