Go Back

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey

A juicy, tender Thanksgiving turkey coated in a sweet-tart cranberry orange glaze for a perfect holiday centerpiece.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 10 people
Course: Holiday, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Thanksgiving
Calories: 410

Ingredients
  

Turkey
  • 1 whole turkey (12–14 lb) thawed and giblets removed
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped
  • 1 orange halved
  • 1 onion quartered
  • 6 garlic cloves smashed
Cranberry Orange Glaze
  • 2 cups fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup orange juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 orange zest from one large orange
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar
  • 0.25 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar optional
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp ground cinnamon

Equipment

  • Roasting pan
  • Meat thermometer
  • Saucepan
  • Basting brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and prepare the turkey by bringing it to room temperature.
  2. Combine cranberries, orange juice, zest, brown sugar, honey, butter, salt, and cinnamon in a saucepan. Simmer until thickened.
  3. Pat turkey dry, rub with butter and olive oil, and season with herbs, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stuff cavity with orange halves, onion, and garlic; truss the legs.
  5. Roast turkey for 2½–3 hours, brushing with glaze during the last 45 minutes.
  6. Remove from oven when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Let rest 20–30 minutes before carving. Serve with remaining glaze.

Notes

Use fresh orange juice for the brightest flavor. Glaze can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for 3 days.