Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast for the Holidays

Name: Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast for the Holidays
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh cranberries; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 boneless turkey breast (about 3 pounds); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your holiday celebrations with this delightful Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast recipe. Juicy turkey breast is lovingly brushed with a luscious cranberry orange glaze, creating a beautiful balance of sweetness and tartness that will impress your guests. Perfectly roasted and stunningly presented, this turkey breast is a showstopper for your Thanksgiving feast or holiday gatherings.

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2025-11-23T06:20:14.978Z

This Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast recipe is perfect for the holidays...

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

The combination of cranberries and orange creates an exquisite flavor profile that elevates the turkey breast to new heights. The tartness of the cranberries balances the sweetness of the orange juice, making every bite a delightful experience. This dynamic duo not only adds a beautiful color to the dish but also infuses it with a refreshing tang that complements the savory turkey perfectly.

Incorporating spices like cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the glaze, enhancing the overall flavor palette. This recipe embraces the essence of the holiday season, marrying sweet and tart flavors in a way that will leave your guests raving long after the meal is over. Whether you're serving this for Thanksgiving or Christmas, it’s sure to become a cherished tradition.

A Showstopper for Your Table

When you bring this roasted turkey breast to the table, it’s not just a meal; it’s an impressive centerpiece. The glossy cranberry orange glaze enhances the visual appeal, making it a stunning addition to any holiday spread. The vibrant colors and inviting aroma will draw your guests in and set the mood for a festive celebration.

Presentation matters during the holidays, and this turkey breast certainly shines. Carved slices reveal moist, tender meat, glistening with the luscious glaze, ensuring that every serving is as delectable as it looks. Pair it with seasonal sides and your favorite wine for an unforgettable holiday feast.

Easy and Convenient

One of the best parts about this Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast recipe is its simplicity. With just a few steps, you can prepare a gourmet dish that looks and tastes impressive. The easy-to-follow instructions make this recipe accessible even for novice cooks, reducing kitchen stress during the busy holiday season.

Moreover, the time spent prepping and cooking is manageable, allowing you to enjoy more moments with your family and friends. A dish this delicious and visually appealing means less time worrying about dinner and more time creating memories around the table. It’s the perfect way to elevate your holiday gatherings without the extra hassle.

Ingredients

Cranberry Orange Glaze

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

Turkey Breast

1 boneless turkey breast (about 3 pounds)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Combine all ingredients for the glaze in a saucepan and cook...

Instructions

Prepare the Glaze

In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, sugar, orange zest, and cinnamon over medium heat...

Roast the Turkey

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Rub turkey breast with olive oil, salt, and pepper...

Glaze and Finish

After the turkey has roasted for 1 hour, brush it generously with the cranberry orange glaze...

Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before slicing...

Tips for the Best Turkey

To achieve the ultimate tenderness and juiciness in your turkey breast, brining it ahead of time is an excellent idea. A simple brine solution with salt, sugar, and water can significantly enhance the moisture retention while cooking, resulting in a flavorful bird that your guests will love. Allow the turkey to brine for at least a few hours, or up to overnight, for optimal results.

Additionally, allowing the turkey to rest after cooking is crucial. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is succulent. Cover the turkey loosely with foil and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This small detail can make a world of difference in the overall quality of your dish.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this turkey breast with traditional holiday sides for a complete meal experience. Consider serving it with mashed potatoes and gravy, roasted root vegetables, or a crisp green salad. The tangy glaze also complements the creaminess of potato dishes wonderfully, making every bite harmonious.

Don’t forget the cranberry sauce! While the turkey is glazed with a cranberry orange concoction, a side of homemade cranberry sauce adds another layer of texture and taste to your meal. It reinforces those fruity flavors and gives your guests some options for personalization on their plates.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you're fortunate enough to have leftovers from your Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast, storing them properly ensures they last. Allow the turkey to cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or store it in an airtight container. Leftover turkey is best enjoyed within 3-4 days when stored in the refrigerator.

Reheating is easy; simply slice the turkey and warm it in the oven at a low temperature, about 300°F (149°C), until heated through. For added flavor, consider drizzling a bit more glaze over the top before reheating. This practice rejuvenates your turkey and keeps it flavorful and moist, making those leftovers just as delightful as when they were first served.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries can be used in place of fresh cranberries.

→ What sides pair well with this turkey?

Mashed potatoes and green beans make excellent sides.