Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast: Your New Holiday Star!

Are you ready to elevate your holiday table or Sunday dinner with a dish that's both stunning and incredibly simple to make? Look no further than this magnificent Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast! Forget the fuss of a whole bird; this recipe focuses on a succulent turkey breast, perfectly roasted to golden-brown perfection and bathed in a vibrant, tangy-sweet glaze that sings with the flavors of fall and winter. It’s a showstopper that promises juicy, flavorful slices every time.The magic truly happens with our homemade cranberry orange glaze. It’s a delightful symphony of tart cranberries, bright orange zest and juice, a hint of warm spices, and a touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully as the turkey roasts. This glaze not only adds an irresistible sheen and incredible depth of flavor but also helps keep the turkey breast wonderfully moist. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of savory turkey and the festive, fruity notes of the glaze, making it an instant classic.

Whether you're hosting an intimate gathering, looking for a smaller-scale alternative to a full Thanksgiving turkey, or simply craving a comforting yet elegant meal, this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is your answer. It's surprisingly easy to prepare, leaving you more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones (and maybe even a slice or two more!). Let's get cooking and create some delicious memories!

A Taste of History

While the combination of turkey and fruit glazes has been a beloved tradition for generations, especially during holidays, the specific pairing of cranberry and orange dates back to when these ingredients became widely available and celebrated for their complementary profiles. Cranberries, a native North American fruit, have long been a staple in indigenous diets and later became synonymous with Thanksgiving. The bright citrus notes of orange cut through the richness of turkey and provide a beautiful balance to the tartness of cranberries, creating a truly festive and timeless flavor combination.

Ingredients

• 2-3 pound boneless, skin-on turkey breast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (if thickening is desired)
• 2 tablespoons cold water (if thickening is desired)
• Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
2. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Rub the turkey all over with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Place the seasoned turkey breast, skin-side up, on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, orange zest, ginger (if using), cinnamon, and cloves/nutmeg. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until cranberries begin to burst and soften (about 5-7 minutes).
5. If you prefer a smoother glaze, carefully mash the cranberries slightly with the back of a spoon or immersion blender. For a thicker glaze, mix cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering cranberry mixture and cook for another minute until thickened. Remove from heat.
6. Bake the turkey breast for 30 minutes, then remove from the oven and brush generously with about one-third of the cranberry orange glaze.
7. Return the turkey to the oven and continue baking, brushing with another one-third of the glaze every 15-20 minutes, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast registers 165°F (74°C). Total cooking time will vary depending on the size of your turkey breast, typically 60-90 minutes.
8. Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven, loosely tent it with foil, and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist result.
9. While the turkey rests, gently warm the remaining glaze (if needed) and serve alongside the sliced turkey. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme, if desired.
10. Slice against the grain into thick pieces and serve immediately, drizzling with extra glaze.

Customization and Variations

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze.
• Replace cranberries with lingonberries or cherries for a different fruity twist.
• Infuse the glaze with a splash of Grand Marnier or Cointreau for an adult flavor profile.
• Experiment with other herbs like sage or marjoram in the initial seasoning of the turkey.
• For extra crispy skin, pat the turkey breast extremely dry and consider air-frying for a portion of the cooking time, then transfer to the oven for glazing.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts or green bean almondine.
• Wild rice pilaf or quinoa salad.
• A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors.
• Warm, crusty bread to sop up any extra glaze.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Leftover Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It's delicious sliced cold for sandwiches or reheated gently in the oven or microwave. For make-ahead, you can prepare the glaze a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before brushing onto the turkey.

Conclusion

And there you have it – a show-stopping Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast that's surprisingly easy to achieve and guaranteed to impress! The vibrant flavors of cranberry and orange, combined with the perfectly roasted, juicy turkey, create a truly memorable meal. Don't be shy about experimenting with the glaze to make it your own, and remember that the best dishes are made with love. We hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your table. Happy cooking!