Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

There’s something undeniably special about the holidays — the comforting aroma of roasted turkey, the laughter of loved ones, and the sparkle of the table set for a festive feast. Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast captures all of that warmth and celebration in one perfectly tender, flavorful dish. It’s ideal for smaller gatherings or when you want the holiday taste without cooking a whole bird.

This recipe draws inspiration from the classic pairing of turkey and cranberry sauce, transforming it into a single, elegant main course. The glaze — a glossy blend of sweet-tart cranberries, honey, and a touch of citrus — adds a vibrant pop of flavor that perfectly complements the juicy turkey breast. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply hosting a cozy dinner, this cranberry-glazed creation brings seasonal cheer to your table in a way that’s both simple and stunning.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast isn’t just another holiday entrée — it’s the kind of dish that feels festive yet effortless. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Perfect for smaller gatherings – No need for a whole turkey; this is the ideal portion for 4–6 guests.

• Balanced flavor – The tart cranberries and sweet honey create a glaze that’s both refreshing and comforting.

• Beautiful presentation – That rich ruby glaze adds a showstopping touch to any holiday table.

• Easy to prepare – With minimal steps and simple ingredients, you can achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

• Make-ahead friendly – You can prepare the glaze in advance, making day-of cooking even smoother.

This recipe celebrates the beauty of simplicity — combining familiar holiday flavors with an elegant twist that feels fresh and modern.

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Ingredients

For the Turkey Breast:

• 1 (3–4 lb) bone-in or boneless turkey breast, skin on

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

For the Cranberry Glaze:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries

• ½ cup honey (or pure maple syrup for a natural sweetness)

• ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon orange zest

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh rosemary sprigs

• Orange slices or zest curls

• Extra cranberries for decoration

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Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a roasting pan or baking dish with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels — this helps the skin crisp up beautifully.

2. Season the Turkey

Rub the turkey breast all over with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary. Place the turkey breast on a rack in the roasting pan, skin-side up.

3. Make the Cranberry Glaze

In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, honey, orange juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, orange zest, salt, and cinnamon. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly.

Once thickened, remove the glaze from heat. Use a fine mesh strainer or blend it until smooth if you prefer a glossy finish. Reserve half of the glaze for serving and the rest for basting.

4. Roast the Turkey

Brush the turkey breast generously with cranberry glaze before placing it in the oven. Roast for about 1½ to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.

Baste with more glaze every 25–30 minutes for maximum flavor and color. If the glaze begins to darken too quickly, loosely cover the turkey with foil.

5. Rest and Slice

Once the turkey is done, remove it from the oven and tent it with foil. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This step ensures the juices redistribute, keeping every bite tender and moist.

6. Serve with Glaze

Warm the reserved cranberry glaze and drizzle it over the sliced turkey. Garnish with fresh rosemary and orange slices for a beautiful, festive touch.

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Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

• Total Time: 2 hours

• Yield: Serves 4–6

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Notes

• Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: Both work well, but fresh cranberries yield a slightly brighter flavor. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw before cooking.

• Glaze Thickness: If your glaze thickens too much while cooling, stir in a teaspoon of warm water until you reach your desired consistency.

• Cooking Tip: Use a meat thermometer — it’s the best way to ensure your turkey stays juicy and perfectly cooked.

• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Warm gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

• Make-Ahead Tip: You can make the cranberry glaze up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate it until ready to use.

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Serving Suggestions

Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast shines as the centerpiece of your holiday table, but pairing it with the right sides can make the meal unforgettable. Try these complementary dishes:

• Creamy mashed potatoes – The rich, buttery texture balances the tart cranberry glaze.

• Garlic green beans – Adds a crisp, fresh element to the meal.

• Roasted sweet potatoes – Their natural sweetness enhances the glaze’s fruity notes.

• Classic stuffing – For that timeless Thanksgiving or Christmas feel.

• Homemade dinner rolls – Perfect for soaking up the extra glaze.

For a lighter option, pair it with a cranberry spinach salad or wild rice pilaf for a beautiful contrast of flavors and textures.

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Tips for Perfect Cranberry Glazed Turkey

1. Choose the Right Turkey Breast

A bone-in turkey breast offers more flavor and moisture, while a boneless version cooks slightly faster and slices neatly. Choose according to your preference and the size of your gathering.

2. Don’t Skip the Resting Time

Allowing the turkey to rest after roasting makes a huge difference. It gives the juices time to settle, preventing dryness when slicing.

3. Use a Rack

Elevating the turkey on a rack allows heat to circulate evenly, ensuring even browning and crispier skin.

4. Adjust the Sweetness

Taste your cranberry glaze before basting. Depending on your cranberries, you might want to add a little extra honey or a pinch of sugar to balance tartness.

5. Create a Smooth Glaze

For a polished look, strain the glaze through a sieve or blend it until smooth. This extra step gives your turkey a professional, glossy finish that photographs beautifully.

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How to Store and Reheat

To store, place cooled turkey slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For reheating, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and warm the turkey, covered with foil, until heated through. Add a spoonful of glaze over the top before reheating to lock in moisture.

Avoid microwaving large portions, as it can dry out the meat. Instead, reheat gently in the oven for the best results.

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Make It a Full Holiday Meal

If you’re planning your holiday menu, this recipe can serve as the heart of a complete feast. Here’s a simple, well-balanced spread to pair with your Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast:

• Main Course: Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast

• Sides: Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, and garlic butter rolls

• Salad: Apple pecan salad with a light vinaigrette

• Dessert: Classic pumpkin pie or apple crisp

This combination delivers the essence of the holidays without overwhelming the cook — delicious, festive, and easy to prepare.

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Why This Recipe Works

The secret to the success of this Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast lies in its balance. The cranberries bring brightness, honey adds a rich sweetness, and herbs infuse the meat with a savory depth. The glaze caramelizes slightly during roasting, creating a sticky, flavorful coating that contrasts perfectly with the juicy turkey beneath.

It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome — traditional yet new. Whether it’s your first time hosting or you’re simply craving a cozy, flavorful dinner, this recipe delivers impressive results with minimal effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a boneless turkey breast instead?

Absolutely. A boneless turkey breast works wonderfully for this recipe and is a great option if you’re cooking for a smaller group or prefer easier carving. Boneless cuts tend to cook more quickly and evenly, saving both time and effort in the kitchen. To ensure it stays juicy, start checking for doneness around 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on the size of the breast. The most reliable way to know it’s done is by using a meat thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. Allow it to rest before slicing to lock in moisture and tenderness.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is ideal for prepping ahead, especially during busy holidays. You can make the cranberry glaze up to three days in advance, then store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen as it rests. The turkey breast can also be seasoned and refrigerated overnight, covered tightly. When you’re ready to cook, let the turkey sit at room temperature for about 30–40 minutes before roasting. Reheat the glaze gently on the stove just before basting or serving. This make-ahead approach helps save time while keeping the dish fresh and flavorful.

What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?

No problem — frozen cranberries work just as well. You can use them straight from the freezer without thawing. Simply add a few extra minutes to the simmering time to help them soften and release their juices.

How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

Since the glaze contains natural sugars from honey and cranberries, it can caramelize quickly. To prevent burning, apply the glaze gradually — baste every 25–30 minutes instead of coating it all at once. If the skin starts to darken too fast, loosely cover the turkey with foil to protect it while it finishes cooking.

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