**Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey**
Time taken –
Preparation: 20 minutes
Cooking: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
**Why Make This Recipe**
Serve a festive and flavorful centerpiece this holiday season with this Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey. The delightful harmony of sweet cranberry and tangy orange juice in the glaze gives the turkey an exciting twist that will have your guests talking!
**How to Cook Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs), thawed
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
– Zest and juice of 2 oranges
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
**Directions:**
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Clean the turkey and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Season the inside and outside of the turkey with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Put the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan and rub olive oil evenly over it.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cranberry sauce, orange zest, orange juice, honey or maple syrup, rosemary, and thyme. Spoon half of this glaze over the turkey.
5. Cover the turkey loosely with foil and put it in the oven. Roast for approximately 2 hours, basting occasionally with the pan drippings.
6. Remove the foil and brush the remaining glaze on the turkey. Increase oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and roast for another 1 hour, or until the turkey reaches 165°F (75°C) internally.
7. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving. Brush with melted butter and garnish with orange slices and fresh herbs.
**How to Serve Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey**
Serve this turkey as the centerpiece of your festive spread. Accompany it with your favorite side dishes like green beans, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. Don’t forget the cranberry sauce and gravy!
**How to store Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey**
Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
**Tips to make Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey**
– Thoroughly defrost the turkey before you start the recipe.
– Brush the turkey with the glaze towards the end of the cooking time to prevent it from burning.
– Let the turkey rest before carving to lock in the juices.
**Variations**
If you want a spicier kick, add minced jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze.
**FAQs**
**1. Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce for this recipe?**
Yes, you can use either homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce.
**2. Can I make the glaze ahead?**
Absolutely! Simply store the glaze in an airtight container in the fridge and use when needed.
**3. Can I use a turkey breast instead of a whole turkey?**
Yes. Adjust the cooking time according to the weight of the turkey breast. It typically needs 20 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C).
Enjoy the delightful harmony of sweet and tangy cranberry-orange flavors in every bite. With this recipe, your turkey will be the star of your festive feast!