Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Name: Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 turkey breast (about 4-5 lbs); Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup orange juice; 1/2 cup sugar; Zest of 1 orange; 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Holiday & Seasonal

Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with this flavorful Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast. Juicy and tender, the turkey is infused with a sweet and tangy glaze made from fresh cranberries and zesty oranges, creating a stunning centerpiece that will impress your guests. Perfect for celebrations, this recipe brings a festive touch to your holiday table and promises to be a family favorite!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-18T13:33:29.403Z

This Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is not just another turkey recipe. It’s a celebration of flavors that brings joy to any holiday gathering.

A Festive Touch to Your Holiday Table

As the holiday season approaches, creating a festive atmosphere is key to celebrating with family and friends. This Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast adds a vibrant splash of color and flavor to your Thanksgiving table. The combination of the cranberry and orange glaze not only makes the dish visually appealing but also fills the room with a delightful aroma that captivates the senses.

When you place this beautifully glazed turkey breast at the center of your feast, it becomes more than just a meal; it transforms into a masterpiece. The rich colors of the cranberries and oranges contrast with the golden-brown turkey, inviting your guests to indulge in a truly special experience. It's these details that elevate your holiday gathering from ordinary to extraordinary.

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

One of the standout features of this turkey breast recipe is its balance of flavors. The tartness of fresh cranberries harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of sugar and the citrusy zest of oranges. This unique combination creates a glaze that is both sweet and tangy, enhancing the natural flavors of the turkey. As the turkey roasts, the glaze caramelizes, adding depth and richness to each bite.

Moreover, the addition of cinnamon introduces a warm, comforting spice that evokes feelings of nostalgia during the holidays. When paired with the tender, juicy meat of the turkey breast, every slice becomes a delightful explosion of flavors. Your guests will not only savor the meal but will also remember the magical flavors of this perfect holiday dish.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your turkey breast is perfectly cooked, it's essential to monitor the internal temperature. Utilizing a meat thermometer is a must; once the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C), it's safe to eat. Additionally, resting the turkey after roasting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every slice moist and flavorful. For added tenderness, consider brining the turkey breast the night before for an extra layer of flavor.

Basting the turkey with the cranberry-orange glaze every 30 minutes during roasting helps to develop a beautifully caramelized exterior while locking in moisture. Don't skip this step—it enhances both flavor and presentation. With these tips, you'll achieve a stunning turkey breast that will impress guests and have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Turkey:

1 turkey breast (about 4-5 lbs)
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil

For the Cranberry Orange Glaze:

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup orange juice
1/2 cup sugar
Zest of 1 orange
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Mix all ingredients for the glaze until well combined.

Steps

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Make the Glaze

In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, sugar, orange zest, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.

Glaze and Roast

Brush the glaze over the turkey breast and roast in the preheated oven for approximately 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.

Rest and Serve

Once the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), remove it from the oven and let it rest before slicing.

Serve with your choice of sides and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

This Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast pairs wonderfully with classic Thanksgiving side dishes. Consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, and vibrant roasted vegetables. The richness of these sides complements the sweet and tangy turkey, creating a harmonious blend of flavors on your plate.

For an added touch of freshness, a crisp green salad or tangy coleslaw can offer contrast and balance, enhancing the overall meal experience. Don't forget to garnish your turkey with fresh herbs or orange slices to elevate its presentation and entice your guests even more. A beautiful and colorful table setting completes the feast!

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover turkey, rejoice! This flavorful bird is perfect for meal prep. To store your turkey, slice or shred the leftover meat and place it in an airtight container. It's best to refrigerate leftovers and consume them within 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the meat for up to 3 months—perfect for future sandwiches or soups.

When reheating, keep the turkey moist by adding a splash of broth or water and covering it while warming. This method helps prevent dryness and keeps the flavors fresh. The beauty of this recipe is that the delicious glaze will still shine through even on day two, making a comforting meal that brings back the joy of your festive gathering.

Variations to Try

While this recipe for Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast shines on its own, don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors. Consider adding herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic twist. You could also incorporate apples or pears into the glaze for a fruity depth that complements the turkey beautifully.

For a spicier kick, a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the glaze's flavor profile, adding warmth and complexity. Feel free to make it your own and adapt the recipe to your tastes—this versatility is part of what makes cooking such a joyous experience!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but make sure to thaw them first before cooking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.