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; 1 onion, quartered; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 cup cranberry sauce; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Highlighted under: Joyful Recipes

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a festive centerpiece that combines the savory flavors of roasted turkey with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze.

Created by

Juniper Hale

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:10:34.581Z

Roasting a turkey can be a daunting task, but this recipe simplifies the process with a delicious cranberry glaze that adds a festive touch. Perfect for holidays or special gatherings!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Savory turkey infused with a sweet and tangy glaze
A stunning centerpiece for any holiday table
Easy to follow steps for perfect results

      

The Perfect Holiday Meal

When it comes to the holidays, few dishes evoke the spirit of celebration like a beautifully roasted turkey. This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze elevates the traditional turkey to new heights, making it a standout feature on your dining table. The combination of savory herbs and a sweet, tangy glaze creates a delightful contrast that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Roasting a turkey may seem daunting, but with the right technique and a little patience, anyone can achieve perfectly juicy and flavorful results. The key lies in proper preparation, seasoning, and cooking. This recipe breaks down each step, ensuring that both novice cooks and seasoned chefs can create a memorable holiday meal.

Flavorful Ingredients

The ingredients for this roasted turkey are simple yet powerful. The turkey itself serves as the canvas, while the aromatic vegetables—onion, carrots, and celery—infuse the meat with flavor from the inside out. These vegetables not only add taste but also contribute to a beautiful presentation when served.

The star of the show, however, is the cranberry glaze. Made with fresh cranberry sauce, brown sugar, and a hint of spices, this glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish that complements the savory turkey perfectly. Each bite blends the rich flavors of the turkey with the bright notes of the glaze, creating a delightful culinary experience.

Tips for Success

To ensure your turkey turns out perfectly, be sure to properly thaw it if you’re using a frozen bird. A slow thaw in the refrigerator is best, allowing the meat to retain moisture. Additionally, don’t skip the basting! Regularly basting your turkey with the pan juices helps to keep it moist and adds flavor.

Investing in a meat thermometer is also a game changer. It takes the guesswork out of cooking, ensuring that the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature without overcooking. This small tool can be the difference between a juicy turkey and a dry one, making it a must-have for any successful holiday meal.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 onion, quartered
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped

For the Cranberry Glaze

1 cup cranberry sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the turkey giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Rub the turkey with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with onion, carrots, and celery.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting occasionally with pan juices.

Make the Cranberry Glaze

In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook over medium heat until the glaze is heated through and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.

Glaze the Turkey

During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey with the cranberry glaze. Continue roasting until the turkey is golden brown and fully cooked.

Rest and Serve

Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the remaining cranberry glaze on the side.

Enjoy your deliciously roasted turkey!

Pro Tips

For a more intense flavor, let the turkey marinate overnight with the olive oil and spices.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this roasted turkey with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or stuffing for a complete holiday feast. Don’t forget the cranberry sauce on the side, as it complements the flavors beautifully and allows guests to customize their plates to their liking.

For a touch of sophistication, serve the turkey alongside a fresh salad with seasonal greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing element to the meal, balancing the richness of the turkey and sides.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover turkey can be just as delicious as the main event. Store any remaining turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To keep the meat moist, consider slicing it and storing it with a bit of gravy or broth.

For longer storage, you can freeze leftover turkey. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. Frozen turkey can last for up to three months, making it easy to enjoy your holiday feast even after the celebrations are over.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with different glazes or seasonings. For a spicy kick, add a bit of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the glaze. Alternatively, you can enhance the glaze by adding orange zest or juice for a citrus twist.

If you’re looking for a different approach, consider brining your turkey before roasting. A simple saltwater brine can help to enhance moisture and flavor, making your turkey even more succulent. Whichever method you choose, your guests are sure to be impressed with this show-stopping dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the turkey the night before?

Yes, you can season the turkey and refrigerate it overnight to enhance the flavors.

→ What should I serve with roasted turkey?

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

→ How do I know when the turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking.