Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

A Festive Delight for Your Table

Growing up in sunny Orlando, Florida, my heart has always danced to the rhythm of Mexico’s vibrant flavors. I still cherish those kitchen moments spent alongside my mama, pressing fresh tortillas and absorbing the spice wisdom from my abuela. It’s in those warm kitchens where I learned that food isn’t just nourishment—it’s affection, joy, and tales captured within every bite. Though I now call Orlando home, my spirit resides in Oaxaca’s bustling markets and the comforting embrace of my abuela’s kitchen. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for cranberry orange glazed turkey breast, a dish that encapsulates love and delight in every savory slice.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American/Mexican Fusion
Best Season: Fall/Winter

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Flavor: The sweet-tart glaze of cranberry and orange infuses the turkey with vibrant flavors that your family will adore. This recipe transforms a simple turkey breast into a show-stopping centerpiece.
Perfectly Moist and Juicy: Glazing during roasting ensures your turkey stays moist and full of flavor, avoiding the common dryness that can happen with turkey.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks alike. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a stunning dish.
Festive Presentation: The beautiful red and orange hues of the glaze and garnishes not only make this turkey delicious but also visually appealing on your table, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Packed with the goodness of fresh juices and natural sweetness, this dish allows you to enjoy your festive favorites without weighing you down.

Ingredients List

1 turkey breast
1 cup cranberry juice
1/2 cup orange juice
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh cranberries and orange slices for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Tips

Turkey Breast: Look for a fresh, high-quality turkey breast with a slight pink hue, indicating freshness. If frozen, ensure it’s thoroughly thawed before cooking.

Cranberry Juice: Opt for 100% cranberry juice to avoid excess sugars; it provides a more robust flavor profile.

Fresh Oranges: Choose firm, juicy oranges that feel heavy for their size, ensuring maximum juice yield.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberry juice, orange juice, sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
Rub the turkey breast with olive oil and generously season with salt and pepper for added flavor.
Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and brush it with a generous amount of the glaze.
Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste every 20 minutes with the remaining glaze to enhance the flavor and moisture.
Once fully cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Garnish with fresh cranberries and orange slices if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Pro Secrets for Success

Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to achieve the perfect internal temperature—165°F (75°C) ensures safety and juiciness.
Let It Rest: Allowing your turkey to rest after cooking locks in moisture and makes for easier slicing.
Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to personalize the glaze by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for an additional aromatic twist.
Baste Regularly: Basting the turkey every 20 minutes will help to keep it moist and enhance the flavor of the glaze.

Recipe Variations

Cranberry Pomegranate Glaze: Substitute half the cranberry juice with pomegranate juice for a unique twist that adds both sweetness and depth.
Spiced Citrus Version: Add a touch of lime juice and zest to the glaze for a refreshing kick that complements the turkey beautifully.
Maple-Infused Glaze: Use maple syrup in place of sugar for a rich, caramelized finish that pairs exceptionally well with turkey.
Slow Cooker Version: For a hands-off approach, place the seasoned turkey breast and glaze in a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours until tender.

Perfect Pairings

Drink: Pair your turkey with a crisp white wine or refreshing sparkling water infused with citrus for a delightful contrast.
Sides: Consider serving with roasted seasonal vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a festive cranberry wild rice salad.
Dessert: Finish your meal with pumpkin pie or a light citrus tart for a sweet ending that echoes the flavors of your main dish.

Make Ahead & Freezer Tips

Refrigeration: You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it before use.
Freezer Advice: Cooked turkey can be frozen for up to three months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing to preserve its flavor.
Reheating: For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through.

Serving Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve the turkey on a large platter with garnishes of fresh herbs, cranberries, and orange slices.
Slice the turkey breast and arrange it in a fan shape for a beautiful, eye-catching display.
Use a light drizzle of the leftover glaze over the sliced turkey to enhance its glossy finish.

Kitchen Wisdom

Choose Quality Ingredients: The fresher your ingredients, the better your dish will taste, especially when it comes to juices and the turkey itself.
Control Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar in the glaze based on your sweetness preference; you can decrease it for a more tart flavor.
Keep It Simple: When busy, opt for simple side dishes to pair with your turkey; this allows your main dish to shine.
Clean as You Go: To make cooking less daunting, maintain a tidy workspace and clean your utensils as you finish using them.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Microwave: When reheating in the microwave, cover the turkey with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture and heat on medium power to prevent drying out.
Stovetop: Alternatively, reheat slices on the stovetop in a skillet over low heat, adding a few drops of water or broth to create steam for moist turkey.

FAQs

Can I use a frozen turkey breast? Yes, if using a frozen turkey breast, ensure it’s entirely thawed in the refrigerator before cooking to guarantee even cooking and safety.
What can I substitute for cranberry juice? You can use apple juice or a blend of apple and pomegranate juice for a delicious alternative that complements citrus well.
How do I know when the turkey is done? The best way to ensure your turkey is cooked through is by using a meat thermometer, which should read 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the glaze and season the turkey breast a day before. Simply roast it the day of serving for optimal freshness.
How long can I store leftovers? Cooked turkey can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I double the recipe for a large gathering? Absolutely! Just ensure you have a sufficiently sized roasting pan and adjust cooking times as necessary, using a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 290
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 15g

Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary. Consult a nutritionist for precise info.

Personal Note

Cooking this cranberry orange glazed turkey breast reminds me of the vibrant family gatherings filled with laughter, stories, and the aroma of home-cooked meals. It’s a dish that embodies celebration and togetherness, perfect for both intimate dinners and holiday feasts. I invite you to bring this recipe into your kitchen, where love is poured into every bite. Enjoy making memories around the table, just as I have in my own.

From My Kitchen to Yours

I encourage you to try making this cranberry orange glazed turkey breast yourself—it’s a delightful dish that will warm your heart and your home. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for future gatherings, and share your own version with friends! Let’s spread the love of good food and cherished moments together!