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 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 cup fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Highlighted under: Joyful Favorites

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast, combining savory and sweet flavors for a memorable meal.

Created by

Elodie Fairfax

Last updated on 2025-12-30T17:58:34.613Z

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a roasted turkey filling your home during the holidays. This recipe is special because it features a delicious cranberry glaze that adds a delightful sweetness to the savory turkey, making it a family favorite.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Savory turkey infused with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze
Perfectly crispy skin that locks in moisture
A holiday tradition that brings family and friends together
Simple ingredients for a complex and satisfying flavor

      

The Perfect Holiday Centerpiece

When it comes to holiday feasts, a roasted turkey is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze stands out not just for its flavor but also for its stunning presentation. The deep golden-brown skin glistening with a vibrant cranberry glaze makes it the perfect centerpiece for your table, drawing the eyes and appetites of family and friends alike.

The combination of savory turkey and the sweet-tart cranberry glaze creates a harmonious balance that is sure to please everyone at the gathering. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, serving this turkey will create lasting memories and spark joy among your loved ones, making it a cherished tradition in your home.

A Flavorful Glaze to Elevate Your Turkey

One of the highlights of this recipe is the cranberry glaze that envelops the turkey. Made with fresh cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and warm spices, it adds a luscious coating that elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. The glaze not only enhances the turkey’s flavor but also keeps the meat moist and tender throughout the roasting process.

As the turkey roasts, the glaze caramelizes slightly, creating a beautiful crust on the outside while infusing the meat with its delightful flavors. This complexity of taste is achieved with simple ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. A drizzle of the glaze over the carved turkey brings an extra touch of brightness to each bite.

Tips for a Successful Roast

To ensure your roasted turkey turns out perfectly, start by thawing it completely in the refrigerator a few days before cooking. A properly thawed turkey means even cooking and prevents any food safety issues. Additionally, make sure to let the turkey rest after roasting; this step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful bird.

Basting the turkey with the cranberry glaze every 30 minutes during roasting not only enhances flavor but also helps achieve that coveted crispy skin. Use a roasting pan with a rack to allow air circulation, ensuring even cooking. If you notice the skin browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

For the Cranberry Glaze

1 cup fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Make sure to thaw your turkey in the refrigerator for several days before cooking for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the turkey, then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Make the Cranberry Glaze

In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Brush half of the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. Serve with the remaining cranberry glaze on the side.

Enjoy your perfectly roasted turkey with loved ones!

Pro Tips

For an extra crispy skin, leave the turkey uncovered in the refrigerator overnight before roasting.

Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze pairs beautifully with traditional sides such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole. Consider offering a fresh salad with citrus dressing to complement the rich flavors of the turkey. Don't forget a basket of warm dinner rolls to soak up the extra glaze and drippings from the pan, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.

For a festive touch, serve your turkey with a variety of seasonal sides, such as roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potato casserole. These dishes not only enhance the visual appeal of your holiday spread but also bring a variety of flavors and textures to the table, creating a memorable dining experience.

Storing Leftovers

After the feast, you may find yourself with plenty of delicious turkey leftovers. Ensure that any remaining turkey is stored properly to maintain its flavor and texture. Allow the turkey to cool before slicing and placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking to ensure food safety, and consume within 3-4 days.

Leftover turkey can be repurposed in a multitude of ways. Consider making turkey sandwiches with cranberry sauce, adding it to soups or salads, or using it in casseroles. The versatility of turkey means you can enjoy it long after the holiday meal, making your efforts in the kitchen even more rewarding.

Why Fresh Ingredients Matter

Using fresh ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor in your Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze. Fresh cranberries, for instance, provide a vibrant tartness that complements the sweetness of the glaze perfectly. When possible, choose organic or local products; they tend to have a richer taste and contribute to a healthier meal.

Additionally, fresh herbs and spices can elevate your turkey seasoning. Feel free to experiment with adding rosemary or thyme to the turkey rub for an aromatic touch. The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the overall taste, making it well worth the effort to source fresh and high-quality components for your holiday feast.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long should I thaw a frozen turkey?

It is recommended to thaw a frozen turkey in the refrigerator for 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds.

→ Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can make the cranberry glaze up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What should I serve with roasted turkey?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole.

→ How can I tell if the turkey is cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the turkey.